The name in Thai language is Nuat Boran[noo-ut bo-rahn], but in America it is variously called “Thai Massage,” “Thai Yoga Massage,” “Traditional Thai Massage” or “Thai Bodywork.”  Boran means “ancient” or “classical” and Nuat is often translated as “massage”, though it is not really “massage” as Americans think of it but a holistic bodywork.

Traditionally given on a floor mat with clients fully clothed, Thai bodywork is a whole-body treatment.  It combines passive stretching and mov ement of joints with several touch techniques and work along energy meridians (called sen in Thai).  The whole treatment is a graceful, nurturing, interactive dance that is sensitive to the condition of each person.  The effect of Thai Massage is greater flexibility, flow of energy, deep relaxation, and feeling of well being.

The art of Thai bodywork achieves a deep therapeutic effect without harsh physical force through efficient use of movement, conscious touch, breathing and rhythm.  Since it is given on a floor mat with the client fully clothed, practitioners can use their whole body in leverage and interactive work as they move and rock the client into various positions, apply rhythmic touch as well as some cross-fiber stroking of muscle and tendons. The treatment can be vigorous or gentle depending on the need or preference of the client. Always respectful and caring, it is adjustable to suit most clients, young or not-so-young, athlete or spectator.

You do not have to already be flexible to get and enjoy Thai Bodywork.  And it does not have to hurt.

A complete Thai Massage treats the whole body in four positions: supine, side-lying, prone and sitting.  The process itself is meditative for both client and practitioner and takes between 1½ to 2 hours.  Clients often report feeling “longer,” “expanded,” “looser,” “deeply relaxed,” “refreshed” and more aware of their body. It can have therapeutic benefit for many conditions, especially tight hamstrings and general stiffness, muscular aches in low back, hips, and shoulders, as well as mild rheumatoid arthritis.  The deep relaxation and energy work impart a long-lasting afterglow of well-being.  A great aid in both recovering and maintaining good health!

For more information on Nuat Boran, read the articles, Three Essential Parts of Thai Bodywork, and Varieties of Thai Massage by Robert Wootton.

He lived and worked in Thailand and other Asian countries for six years.  He speaks Thai and knows the culture and religion.  He was one of the first Americans to train with Thai masters of Nuat Boran, studying two major styles: the so-called “northern style” of Chiang Mai and Jap Sen.

Robert has practiced Thai Massage for 20 years and taught workshops for 10.  In his years of experience with clients he has developed a style that is comfortable and effective for Americans: gentle but deep, smooth flowing and meditative with energy work.  (See Robert’s article Varieties of Thai Massage).

Robert also gives presentations on Thailand, Buddhism, and meditation.  He lives and practices near Asheville, and his hobby is dancing.

Contact Robert at 828-645-0647 or  email ThaiBodyWork.

Read two interviews with Robert about the spiritual background for his approach to Thai Massage. One appeared in “The Flagpole” in Athens, GA, March 29, 2006, titled “The Journey From Conscientious Objection to Thai Massage”. The second was in “The Athens Banner-Herald” September 21, 2006, titled “Spiritual Tradition”.