Level 1: Thai Massage Essentials

This manual accompanies a continuing education course that is approved by NCBTMB.

Entire class is presented and practiced on a Thai floor mat. A basic introduction to Thai Massage that is suitable for new students, or practitioners seeking an alternative modality. At the end of the course, the student can perform a complete 60-minute Thai massage routine, including supine, side-lying, prone and seated positions.

In Level 1, we begin with the origin of Thai Massage, introduce the theory of Sen lines, and Thai asanas or therapeutic postures. We teach basic principles of western muscular anatomy and place a strong emphasis upon body mechanics and practicing bodywork in a sustainable way. Many western practitioners experience symptoms of occupational disability in hands, shoulders and arms due to reliance upon muscular strength and a failure to understand the power of working from the core. We use yoga principles to teach the student how to move in an efficient, elegant and powerful way. With strong fundamentals, Thai bodywork can be not only safe but beneficial for the practitioner and will provide a deeply satisfying career that lasts many decades.