Why is it we seek for help when problems become out of control? When we have a financial crisis we seek an accountant or financial adviser; when we are having relationship trouble we seek a counselor/therapist. When it comes to our cars, we see our mechanics for major breakdowns.
What happens when we experience pain in our bodies? We go to a Western medical professional.... and most of the time, we are prescribed medication. But what if we are looking for a different solution, something drug-free? One can have tests done to rule out any insidious conditions, and experience many side-effects from these tests. Or they will recommend exercise and a healthy eating habit or seek guidance from a physiotherapist/chiropractor. Approaching a Western medical professional for an alternative solution is like asking an accountant to fix a tire. If we want to live a pill-free life and save money on future health costs, we need to acknowledge our life habits. From my experience in massage therapy, I’ve witnessed how good habits prevent muscular-skeletal pain and crisis. The first major lifestyle changes my clients make are diet and exercise. They’ve cultivated a new sense of awareness; no longer do they ignore the effects of bad habits - everything that affects the body is accounted for. Stretching is undervalued in our self-care. It is simple - a daily routine of stretching can prevent numerous incidents of body pain and trauma (such as: herniated vertebras, dislocated joints, ruptured tendons, etc.). Stretching for 1.5 minutes or more for each posture begins to work the connective tissue that interconnects the entire body, allowing muscles, nerves, and blood vessels room to breathe. Through my 8+ years of experience I know that massage/bodywork is more effective to prevent trauma and improve performance. I’ve helped many people who suffer from chronic pain experience a new sense of freedom. A health care routine without massage may be enough to stop pain, but, a regimen including bodywork can actually reverse the disease process by eliminating their causes and potential effects. The old saying still remains true "an ounce of prevention, is worth a pound of cure". In other words, a small daily dose of effort (stretching, self massage, deep breathing, not eating another pastry) is better than getting plantar fasciitis (lasts more than 6 mo.), Sciatica (cyclical nerve pain), and Diabetes.
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One of the unique features of Thai Massage is the principle of Metta (compassion). When we do bodywork, it always comes from the heart. Good intentions always rest in this space. Practice in the art of healing lies in the compassionate intent of the healer. In Thai massage, this state of mind is called Metta, translated as “loving kindness”.
Anyone can cultivate this state of mind. It begins by developing a deeper level of awareness in oneself. Through acts of piety and prayer, these methods transcend into humility, awareness and concentration. As a Thai massage Practitioner, Metta is the most important element. Unconditional love and compassion is the universal principle that is applicable to everyone, regardless of tradition or belief. Without this form of spiritual awareness, the power of healing cannot occur. “Being in the present moment is integral to establishing a sacred healing space and being in harmony with the massage.” Kam Thye Chow, Thai Yoga Massage |
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