Q. Is Thai Yoga the same as Thai Massage?
A. The term "Thai Massage" is western slang, mostly promoted by tourists in Thailand. Thai Yoga and/or Thai Massage is not the same as "massage", "massage therapy" or "bodywork" as commonly defined in so called "massage laws" which are based on "Swedish Massage". Swedish Massage is less than 100 years old and focuses specifically on the physical aspect of the mind/body/spirit system. Thai Yoga on the other hand dates back 2,500 years and is a spiritual healing modality based entirely on the principles of energy balancing (Sen, Tri-Dosha, Lom, Chakra, etc.) and the actual touching, contact or manipulation is incidental to, and not the central aim of the practice!

Q. I'm not very flexible. Can I still receive Thai Yoga Therapy?
A. Absolutely. With gentle assisted stretches, we work to increase your range of motion and flexibility.  Some postures may appear intimidating, but most people are surprised at their range of motion with the gentle guidance of a good facilitator. There are hundreds of stretching techniques that can be incorporated into a tailor-made session for your body. I will only take you as far as YOU can go.

Q. Does it hurt?
A. Most people experience Thai Yoga to be very relaxing and pleasurable. However, there are varying degrees of intensity associated with certain areas of the body. These areas may have stagnant or blocked energy, inhibiting the flow that supports the system as a whole, causing some mild to moderate discomfort. Once the stagnant energy is released, the client usually feels a sense of calm and well being. That said, I always encourage the client to keep an open line of communication during the session, so I can make any necessary adjustments in pressure or stretching.

Q. Is it normal to experience discomfort after a Thai Yoga session?
On occasion, some people do experience minor muscle aches, due to the "under use" factor, even if you are an active, athletic person. Some people may feel shifts in their emotional state. These are not "bad" things, in fact, this is a good indication that the physical and energy bodies are responding and opening - clearing toxins and negativity, and usually only last a day or two. It helps to up your water intake and maintain a compassionate state of mind. With continuous treatments, the "aftershock" will definitely diminish.

Q. How often should I receive Thai Yoga?
Every body is different. Some people need more sessions initially - as frequently as several times a week - depending on the issue, dropping down to less frequent visits as they become more balanced. Others may benefit by once a week to once a month. As with all therapies, it depends on the individual and what the intended goals are.