The roots of Thai massage lie in ancient Indian medicine, what was brought to what is now Thailand over 2000 years ago. It has developed onto a flowing style of dynamic massage embodying the wisdom of Buddhism and the spirit of Yoga. Massage was considered a spiritual practise, closely connected to the teachings of the Buddha. The giving of massage was understood to be a physical application of Metta, or loving kindness.

The method is based on the concept of invisible lines running through the body. Working on these lines with massage stimulates the free flow of Prana (life energy in Yoga Philosophy) and helps to restore general well being. This ’applied physical yoga’ aids breathing, circulation and helps improve flexibility and alignment. It is also an effective form of self-development, enhancing vitality and body awareness.

The massage, which takes about two hours, is performed while the client lies fully clothed, on a futon mat on the floor. The practitioner uses thumbs, hands, elbows and feet to massage along the energy lines whilst moving the body through a sequence of yoga stretches. The unique experience will leave you feeling deeply relaxed and revitalised.

’As I walked through the door to the Vitality Centre the scent of the aromatherapy oils relaxed me straight away and, after a long day, I couldn’t wait for my treatment. Thai massage is based on applied Hatha Yoga and the massage involved a strong interlinking between the practitioner and I as she manoeuvred me into various yoga-based positions. These positions would be difficult if not impossible in normal circumstances, but every movement felt natural and completely welcome. the two hour session flew by alarmingly quickly and I walked out feeling all the benefits of having completed an intense yoga session and body massage in one. Fantastic!’

- Sharon Addison, mother of two Wimbledon. As featured in Time and Leisure June 2003.