Core element theory in Thai massage
The core element theory in Thai Massage is that the body is composed of four elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire – with each having a different role and aspect to play in your health.
Thai core Element theory is such a complex area of practice this post will keep things really simple for now.
Element Theory can be found in many cultures, including China and India, but it is the foundation of ancient Thai medicine from the Lana province. It is this belief that many practitioners use when helping to heal the body. During our life, the elements will go in and out of balance in a continuously changing state depending on our life course of health or illness. The primary aim is to promote health by maintaining the strength and stability of these four core elements.
The Core Elements
Earth
In theory the element of Earth controls many of the organs and main parts of the body, such as: bones, heart, liver, muscles, tendons and ligaments. All things controlled by the Earth element can be touched. Earth gives the stability and resistance within the body, think building blocks of the body.
Water
The element of water controls the fluids of the body, blood, sweat, tears, synovial fluid, bile etc Water element is associated with fluidity and softness.
Fire
The element of fire controls heat within the body. It is the spark of all things, the element that gives the impetus to start and to create change. Heat can improve circulation, assist with digestion and metabolism but also causes emotion and fever.
Wind
The element of wind controls movement within the body, such as respiration, digestion moves the blood around the body. Without wind the body stagnates, it helps with growth, vibration and keeps the body functioning.
How does it work?
When these Core Elements become imbalanced your health and ailments such as stress, headaches, muscle strain and many more may deteriorate. Thai bodywork can be used to reset these imbalances, working alongside, supporting dietary alterations & lifestyle adjustments.
Balance is encouraged by specific techniques and adjusted speed, rhythm and pressure to the way your body reacts within the bodywork session.
When the four elements are in symmetry a healthy balance is created leading to a feeling of wellness.
The science behind this?
Research into the effectiveness of Thai Bodywork/massage have been carried out in a variety of different areas. This journal on non-specific lower back pain is a great example of how Thai Bodywork can help.
What to expect?
Unlike other massages Thai Bodywork is completed fully clothed so oil is not required and your muscles typically are not heavily kneaded. Some of the stretches will involve going through movements with the bodywork practitioner holding or pulling you to maintain a pose.
If you have an injury, or any part of your body is particularly sensitive to pain, be sure to let the massage practitioner know before they start the session.
For more information on how Thai Bodywork can help you just get in touch.