Massage Therapy

How to Apply Pressure

2008-05-10T20:48:00.001-07:00

How to Apply Pressure

Firm pressure is the most fundamental technique. Use thumbs, fingers, palms, the side of the hand, or knuckles to apply steady, stationary pressure. To relax an area or relieve pain, apply pressure gradually and hold without any movement for several minutes at a time. You can Use prolonged finger pressure directly on the point; gradual, steady, penetrating pressure for approximately three minutes is ideal. Each point will feel somewhat different when you press it; some points feel tense, while others are often sore or ache when pressed. How much pressure to apply to any point depends on how fit you are. A general guideline to follow is that the pressure should be firm enough so that it hurts a little. The more developed the muscles are, the more pressure you should apply. If you feel extreme sensitivity or pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you find a balance between pain and pleasure. Do not continue to press a point that is excruciatingly painful. Usually, however, if you firmly hold the point long enough (up to 2 minutes using the middle finger with your index and ring fingers on either side as support), the pain will diminish. Note that sometimes when you hold a point, you'll feel pain in another part of your body. This phenomenon is called referred pain and indicates that those areas are related.
It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, to help clear away toxic substances in our body .

Caution: If you have a serious illness , or life-threatening illness such as heart disease, or cancer, please consult with your physician before practicing Acupressure.

About Acupressure

2008-05-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

About Acupressure

Acupressure is an ancient Chinese healing method that involves applying pressure to certain meridian points on the body to relieve pain. The human body has fourteen "meridians" that carry energy throughout the body. These meridians start at the fingertips, connect to the brain, and then connect to the organ associated with the specific meridian.

Acupuncture and Acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture uses needles, while Acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands. There is a massive amount of scientific data that demonstrates why and how acupuncture is effective.

Acupressure is the most effective method for self-treatment of tension-related ailments by using the power and sensitivity of the human hand. Acupressure deals with all the aspects of a person as a whole: body, emotions, mind, and spirit as one, not as separate parts. It relaxes muscular tension and balances the vital life forces of the body.

Common Benefits:
• Relieve stress and tension
• Relax mind and body
• Increase blood circulation
• Aid in the removal of toxic wastes
• Provide relief from head, neck and shoulder aches
• Promote the healing of injuries
• Increase energy levels
• Increase overall feeling of well-being
• Decreasing labor pains

Acupressure uses the fingers to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body's life force to aid healing.

Acupressure can be effective in helping relieve headaches, eyestrain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle aches, and tension due to stress. There are also great advantages to using Acupressure as a way to balance the body and maintain good health. The healing touch of acupressure reduces tension, increases circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply. By relieving stress, acupressure strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.

Acupressure focuses on relieving pain and discomfort as well as on responding to tension before it develops into a "disease," that is, before the constrictions and imbalances can do further damage. By using a combination of self-help methods, you can improve your condition as well as feel more alive, healthy, and in harmony with your life.

This treatment involves stimulating the vital-energy points along the meridians on our body to effect maximum energy flow.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are over 800 vital energy points along the meridians that run from the head down to the heels, especially along either side of the spinal column. (The meridians connect the interior and exterior of the body). Every point has specific therapeutic effects on the related organ. By massaging these points, the corresponding body area receives specific therapeutic treatment. It can be used to treat internal organ diseases, relieve internal discomfort, and relax yourself; or to promote overall well-being of the body.

Western scientists have shown that many of these points are located at key crossways of the autonomic nervous system. This may explain in part why they can affect pain that the patient experiences in a part of the body far from where the pressure is applied.

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, to help clear away toxic substances in our body.

Caution: If you have a serious illness, or life-threatening illness such as heart disease, or cancer, please consult with your physician before practicing Acupressure.

Relieves Headache

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Relieves Headache

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Relieves Nasal Congestion.

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Relieves Nasal Congestion.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Lose Weight, Reduces bloating and improves metabolism efficiency.

2008-05-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

Lose Weight, Reduces bloating and improves metabolism efficiency.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Improves mental power. Soothes Stress. Improves visual acuity.

2008-05-10T20:41:00.001-07:00

Improves mental power. Soothes Stress. Improves visual acuity.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Tranquilizes the mind and Relieves mental distress.

2008-05-10T20:40:00.002-07:00

Tranquilizes the mind and Relieves mental distress.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Reduces toxic substances.

2008-05-10T20:40:00.001-07:00

Promotes the flow of Qi. Reduces toxic substances.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Relieves Sleeplessness.

2008-05-10T20:39:00.001-07:00

Relieves Sleeplessness.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Invigorates Yin-energy and Yang-energy

2008-05-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

Invigorates Yin-energy and Yang-energy.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Acupressure Points for Relieving

2008-05-10T20:29:00.000-07:00

Acupressure Points for Relieving Acne, Pimple and Other Skin Problems.
Working on these points can help you get better quicker. You do not have to use all of these points. Using just one or two of them whenever you have a free hand can be effective.

Points (A) -- Heavenly Pillar
Location: One-half inch below the base of the skuIl on the ropy muscles one-half inch outward from either side of the spine. Benefits: Relieves stress related to skin disorders such as acne. Relieves stress, burnout, exhaustion, insomnia, heaviness in the head, eyestrain, stiff necks, and sore throats.

Points (B) & Points (C) -- Sea of Vitality
Caution: Do not press on disintegrating discs or fractured or broken bones. If you have a weak back, a few minutes of stationary, light touching instead of pressure can be very healing. See your doctor first if you have any questions or need medical advice. Location: In the lower back (between the second and third lumbar vertebrae) two to four finger widths away from the spine at waist level. Benefits: Relieves acne, eczema, and bruises on the body.

Points (D) -- Third Eye Point
Location: Directly between your eyebrows in the indentation where the bridge of the nose meets the center of the forehead. Benefits: Stimulates the pituitary gland, which is the master endocrine gland, to enhance the condition of the skin throughout the body.

Points (E) -- Four Whites
Location: One finger width below the lower ridge of the eye socket in line with the center of the iris in an indentation of the cheek. Benefits: Remedies acne and facial blemishes.

Points (F) -- Facial Beauty
Location: At the bottom of the cheekbone, directly below the pupil. Benefits: Relieves acne, facial blemishes, poor complexion, and sagging cheeks; and improves facial circulation.

Points (G) -- Three Mile Point
Location: Four finger widths below the kneecap toward the outside of the shinbone. Benefits: Strengthens and tones the muscles and improves the condition of the skin throughout the entire body.

Points (H) -- Heavenly Appearance
Location: In the indentation directly below the ear lobe and behind the jawbone. Benefits: Balances the thyroid gland to increase the luster of the skin; relieves hives.

Points (I) -- Wind Screen
Location: In the indentation directly behind the ear lobe. Benefits: Balances the thyroid gland to increase the luster of the skin; relieves hives.

Massage for Longevity

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Promotes the circulation of the blood.
Regulates menstrual disorders.

By massaging these points, the corresponding
body area receives specific therapeutic treatment

It's important to drink plenty of warm water after the massage, helps to clear away toxic substances in our body.

Foot Massage

2008-05-10T20:11:00.000-07:00

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

LOW BLOOD PRESSURE

TIGHTNESS SHOULDER

Acupressure Points

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Acupressure Points for Relieving Anxiety and Nervousness.

Working on these points can help you get better quicker. You do not have to use all of these points. Using just one or two of them whenever you have a free hand can be effective.

Points (A) -- Heavenly Pillar
Location: One finger width below the base of the skull on the ropy muscles one-half inch outward from the spine. Benefits: Relieves stress, over exhaustion, insomnia, heaviness in the head, eyestrain, stiff necks, swollen eyes, and sore throats.

Points (B) -- Heavenly Rejuvenation
Location: On the shoulders, midway between the base of the neck and the outside of the shoulders, one-half inch below the top of the shoulders. Benefits: Relieves nervous tension and stiff necks; increases resistance to colds and flu. It is also good for the lungs.

Points (C) -- Crooked Marsh-- on both side of arm
Location: On the inside of the arm at the lower end of the elbow crease when the arm is bent. Benefits: Relieves nervous stomach, anxiety, arm pain, elbow pain, and chest discomfort.

Points (D) -- Inner Gate-- on both side of arm
Location: In the middle of the inner side of the forearm two and one-half finger widths from the wrist crease. Benefits: Relieves nausea, anxiety, palpitations, and wrist pain.

Points (E) -- Spirit Gate-- on both side of arm
Location: On the little finger side of the forearm at the crease of the wrist. Benefits: Relieves emotional imbalances, fear, nervousness, anxiety, and forgetfulness.

Points (F) -- Third Eye Point
Location: Directly between the eyebrows, in the indentation where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead. Benefits: Calms the body to relieve nervousness.

Points (G) -- Sea of Tranquility
Location: On the center of the breastbone, three thumb widths up from the base of the bone. Benefits: Relieves nervousness, anxiety, chest tension, anguish, depression, hysteria, and other emotional imbalances.

Natural Herbal Thai mssage Ball

2008-04-26T03:21:00.000-07:00

origin of the Ancient Thai massage

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The origin of the Ancient Thai massage can be traced far back into history to Shivago Komarpaj, the founding father. This unique bodywork incorporates yoga, pressure point and reflexology.

To preserve this ancient art form, past practitioners have scribed medical technique into stones. These inscriptions can be found within the walls of the Wat Po Temple in Bangkok Thailand.

Today, Thai massage helps eliminate stress and muscle tension, thus creating balance and harmony to one's body. Many people have incorporated Thai massage into their preventative health practices and are enjoying its lasting effects.

Unlike the scooping and continuous strokes of the Western massage, Thai massage uses pressure point, muscle stretching and compression, done in a rhythmic rocking motion. In Thai massage, the therapist is skillfully trained to in the use of the hands, elbows and feet to relieve tension

The Lanna Spa

2008-04-26T03:08:00.000-07:00

The Lanna Spa
at The Regent Chiang Mai, Thailand
by Julie Register

I anticipated the flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai would be on a little commuter plane, but it turned out to be a fully-booked 747-ish jet. Even though the flight took just over an hour, Thai Airways had time to serve breakfast. It was a pleasant start to our journey to The Regent Chiang Mai. I arranged for The Regent to pick us up at the airport. Our driver was waiting for us at the terminal, loaded our luggage in the van, and offered us much-appreciated cool washcloths and bottled water. During the half-hour ride from the city to the hilly countryside, we noted how the pace of life in Chiang Mai seemed slower than in Bangkok. We saw tuk-tuks, rickshaws, and trucks with wooden benches in the truck bed that served as buses. Our driver told us that there are no taxis in Chiang Mai and we didn't see any. I was glad I had arranged for the van. Getting our luggage to the hotel would have been a challenge without it.

The sight and scent of fresh flowers greeted us as we entered the open-air lobby of The Regent Chiang Mai. We were given necklaces of fresh jasmine and invited to sit and enjoy a refreshing fruit drink and more cool washcloths while we checked in. A short while later, we were in our Pavilion Suites - my son and daughter in the lower suite and my husband and I in the upper suite. Each suite had a lovely sleeping area, a separate dressing area, a luxurious deep soaking tub overlooking a private garden, and an outdoor sala (covered gazebo) that overlooked the beautiful property and the mountains beyond. It was a perfect place to stretch out and relax. The overhead fan made it quite pleasant even in the heat of the day. We enjoyed having breakfast there one morning.

The 77-suite resort was designed like a traditional Thai village centered around a working rice paddy (the rice is donated to charity). There are 64 750 square-foot Pavilion Suites and 13 Residence Suites ranging from 350 to 3,767 square feet available in combinations of one, two and three bedrooms with a private pool on the lower level. The work of the ever-present team of gardeners on the landscape designed by Bensley Design Studios, Bangkok is evident - the grounds are immaculate and lush with over 200 varieties of plants and trees. Paths that wind through the property are lined with spirit house-styled lights. At night glowing lanterns seem to magically float overhead. The main pool and fitness center are centrally located. In the fitness center building, there are separate womens' and mens' locker rooms with saunas as well as a co-ed herbal steam room and outdoor whirlpool. These facilities are separate from the spa - a perfect arrangement in my opinion. The fitness center offers classes in low impact aerobics, body toning, stretching, yoga, and meditation. There are two tennis courts on site, complementary mountain bikes, and golf nearby.

Lanna literally means "the land of a million rice fields" and the Lanna style of architecture and design is unique to that area of Thailand. The Lanna Spa opened in December 1999 in a magnificent 9,000 square foot three-story building at the far end of the Residence Suites area of the resort. The Regent calls the Lanna Spa "a temple of harmony for the body, mind and soul." They are not exaggerating. Other appropriate adjectives include romantic, indulgent, exclusive, and private. Mr. Lek Bunnag of Bunnag Architects of Bangkok, who did the architectural design and interiors, based The Lanna Spa's design on several ancient Thai Lanna Temples in the north. The design concept in creating the Lanna Spa was to provide a luxurious facility with total privacy for clients while at the same time incorporating both nature and culture and carefully blending the spa into the resort's existing environment. To say they met their goal is an understatement.

Crossing the bridge to get to the spa entrance is like crossing from one fantasy world to another. This sumptuous sanctuary has seven spacious treatment suites that offer total privacy for individuals or couples. In order to give each suite an individual identity, Lek chose a clearly defined room-type of architecture in which he then created "diminishing perspective", giving visual depth inside each treatment suite with a design inspired from the gates of Wat Phumin (the most beautiful and distinctive Lanna temple in the Nan province, 300 kms from Chiang Mai). Six of the suites feature soaking tubs on semi-enclosed salas. Five of the suites have private herbal aromatherapy steam rooms. Two of the suites feature double rain shower massage tables. The palatial Lann Chang Suite in the penthouse has a sunken bath in a turret with stunning views of the resort and Doi Suthep and Doi Pui mountain ranges. The Prae Garden Suite on the lower level has Thai style massage beds next to a fireplace and its own private pool. The decor is rich, luxurious, and sumptuous. Treatments are inspired by ancient Thai rituals using herbs, spices and aromatic oils sourced from traditional rural origins. It is an extraordinary spa and my favorite to date.

My entire family decided to have spa treatments. My son and husband worked out at the fitness center then each chose an Aromatic Massage using Nutmeg Oil. This oil from southern Thailand is used for muscular ailments and muscle stimulation, has a warm, spicy fragrance, and relieves fatigue. My daughter chose an Aromatic Massage with Lemongrass Oil. It has a fresh grassy citrus fragrance and is refreshing and stimulating.

I had the three-hour Lanna Sampler which includes Thai Herbal Steam, Traditional Thai Massage, Lanna Herbal Facial, and Ginger and Honey Elixir. I entered the suite and was captivated by the decor. I was led to a changing room where I changed into a robe. I then entered the steam room for the Thai Herbal Steam. My initial thoughts were along these lines...are you insane?...this steamy climate is the last place you need a steam bath! But I soon relaxed and enjoyed the rich, exotic fragrance and the steam. I stepped out for a break at 10 minute intervals but got right back in. I then changed into at loose-fitting outfit called a "choot nourd" to wear during the Traditional Thai Massage (nuat paen boran) that followed. I liked the choot nourd so much, I later bought one to take home. Thai massage is my favorite spa treatment. I always feel positively energized after having one. This time was no exception. My husband and I shared the same suite. Our massages ended at the same time and we relaxed and recovered on a large sofa that overlooked a private garden while we sipped ginger and honey elixir. He left and I returned to the table for at Lanna Herbal Facial that left my skin feeling fresh and soft. The whole experience was exceptional. The rest of my family enjoyed their treatments as well. It was my son's first massage. What a place to be introduced to the world of spas!

Chiang Mai is a center for shopping and we could not resist. The Regent's concierge, Mr. Pratya, was extremely helpful in helping us fit as much as we could into our tight schedule. One night we took the complementary shuttle from The Regent to the Night Market, a bazaar full of sights, sounds, and treasures. One day we used The Regent's chauffeur service and shopped along Sankampaeng Road where many handicraft factories are located. The demonstrations alone are worth the trip. We saw how silk, umbrellas, and Sa paper (course decorative paper, some with flower petals imbedded in it) are made and watched woodcarvers make teak and rosewood furniture. We did not get to the silverware, celadon, or lacquerware factories. Another day we again hired the van to take us to the elephant camp to see them bathe and demonstrate how they worked (although logging is no longer allowed in Thailand). The trip ended with a ride on an elephant through the jungle. We did not have time to visit any of the 300+ wats in Chiang Mai. Another of many, many reasons to return...

What conditions is Thai massage used for?

2008-04-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

What conditions is Thai massage used for?

Many people find that Thai massage has the following benefits:

relaxes
reduces stress
improves circulation
increases energy
increases flexibility
improves range of motion
centers the mind and body

Precautions

Massage is not recommended for certain people:

infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
immediately after surgery
immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.
massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Additional tips

Don’t eat a heavy meal before the massage
If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.
Be sure that your massage therapist has your complete health history, because people with certain conditions should not have Thai massage.
If you feel discomfort at any time, let your massage therapist know.

More:

On oasis for Body, mind and Soul

2008-04-26T00:44:00.000-07:00

Traditional thai massage

An ancient form of massage unique to Thailand using deep tissue, pressure point and stretching techniques to reduce stress and relieve muscle soreness. In Thailand, this wonderful feeling is called “ sabai sabai ”.

Thai Aromatherapy

Integrated massage techniques are used with your choice of aromatherapy massage oil blends, to leave you feeling well-balanced and rejuvenated. Gentle acupressure is applied to restore a sense of serenity to your day.

3 in 1 – Herbal steam bath

A combination of nature and technology brings forth this special massage therapy. This therapy with a beautifying effect on the whole body uses special concoctions of herbs to relax the muscles and strengthens the body’s physiological processes, which then helps in detoxification, better blood circulation and increases metabolism rate. All and all, a total relaxation bubble steam bath a lot of benefits.

Thai herbal therapy

From body detoxification to stress relief and other health purpose, Thai Herbal Therapy has been known as an ancient remedy for it all. It will also help those who suffer
From insomnia and muscle pain among others. A unique massage using a blend of natural, non-chemical, herbal product known for its therapeutic purpose, will help in restoring vitality, well being and good heath.

Foot massage

A unque massage technique using acupressure on reflex areas on the feet. It’s considered to be a relaxing and energizing body tune-up. Depending on your preference, pressure can be gentle, moderate or deep.

Massage Cruise

Recenty, introduced an innovative and special way to enjoy relaxation. Introducing “ The Massage Cruise ” It is indeed, a truly new, creative and clever way for relaxation and a peace of mind

Sports Massage for golfer

Release anxiety from repetitive pain syndrome before and after the game.

Body Scrub

Say farewell to ded skin cells and unveil a softer, smoother and more rejuvenated body, achievable from our extensive range of luxurious and divinely aromatic scrubs with gentle exfoliating beads. To complete your treatment, choose among our variety of fragrant essential oils and indulge in our relaxing body massage.