Encyclopedia of Thai Massage A Complete Guide to Traditional Thai Massage Therapy and Acupressure

Drawing from Thai history, cultural studies, Buddhist religion, and yogic practices, as well as a modern understanding of anatomy and physiology, this guidebook bridges the gap between theory and practice while presenting bodywork as it is understood in Thailand--as a therapeutic medical science. Presenting detailed analysis of each step in a Thai massage routine, the history, spiritual traditions, and ethical codes are offered in an engaging, informal style. Numerous photographs and diagrams illustrate the variety of techniques used, and examples of routines for treating specific disorders are discussed. Updated with new layout, photos, and expanded text, this exhaustive handbook is complete with a section on the main energy meridians and diagrams of acupressure points, making it the perfect tool to accompany anyone studying this popular healing modality.

Dr. Pierce Salguero is a professor and the director of research at the Thai Institute of Healing Arts. He is the author of The Spiritual Healing of Traditional Thailand, A Thai Herbal, Thai Massage Workbook, and Traditional Thai Medicine: Buddhism, Animism, Ayurveda. He lives in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. David Roylance is an instructor of Thai massage and Thai healing arts, as well as the executive director of the Thai Institute of Healing Arts. He lives in Arlington, Virginia.

1. Introduction to the Tradition
2. Before and After the Massage
3. The Fundamentals of Thai Massage
4. The Classic Thai Massage Routine
5. Variations and Advanced Steps
6. Sen: The Thai Energy Lines
7. Thai Acupressure Therapy
8. Therapeutic Thai Massage
9. Thai Herbs and Massage
Appendix
Index