Although the official figure is yet to be confirmed, it is thought a total of five hundred and eighty four pairs took part. The current official Guinness World Record is two hundred and thirty two, set on 30TH March 2010, at an event organised by the Tourism Board of Victoria in Australia.

The un-official Phuket world record attempt is part of a wider campaign by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to raise the profile of Thai Massage throughout the world. Promotional activities kicked off in the northern city of Chiang Mai on 3rd June 2011 and similar events were also held in Surat Thani and Ubon Ratchathani in southern Thailand.

The campaign will reach its climax with an official attempt on the Guinness World Record in Bangkok on 17th November 2011. Already, eight hundred and forty pairs are expected to take part.

The father of Thai massage and medicine is said to be Doctor Shivago Komarpaj (Jivaka Kumar Bhacca) from northern India, who lived over 2,500 years ago.

Komarpaj was a student of the Buddah and the personal doctor of the first Buddhist monks.

Thai massage, also known as Nuadd Bo-Rarn, is a combination of influences from India, China and traditional Thai medicine.

Modern Thai massage is derived from traditional healing techniques used across the different provinces of Thailand. There are many variations which differ according to the region.

Today, many Buddhist temples continue to practise the art of Thai massage to treat the sick as an alternative to Western medicine.

Currently there are two hundred and twenty certified institutes which provide massage training throughout Thailand. Since 2004 over 500,000 Thai’s have taken a certified massage training course.

A Bit of a Background
Thai massage is one of the types that has been practiced for a long time. Its existence can be traced to more than a thousand years now. The therapy itself forms part of the well-known area of Thai medicine. It comprises of manipulation, medicinal treatment, ritual, and diet. It is rooted from the belief that each and every disease is caused by a particular imbalance in the energy system within the body. It is geared at the promotion of balance which hence aids in the complete healing and rejuvenation of an individual.

The Techniques Unraveled
To be able to do the overall process of Thai massage, several techniques need to be applied. The pressure involved is actually gentler as compared to the rest of the types of massage therapy. It works well like the Shiatsu. In this kind of therapy, the pressure is applied on the energy channels and they are being treated using two directions.

One more technique is known as blood stopping. It is done by means of applying the pressure on the arteries in the leg or arm for about a minute. The theory that works behind is that of the importance of cutting out the principal source of the circulation that will lead to a heightened pressure. This will then lead to the slowing down of the heart muscle contractions that will eventually tone down the pressure. As the pressure applied on the artery has been let go, a supply of blood goes into the area so that brings the organ to a more relaxed state. This technique is not recommended for use on someone who has diabetes and other heart related issues.

Passive refers to the kind of stretching employed on the patient but he doesn’t move. Only the therapist does. The stretching is done in several stages and at a slow pace. Other techniques involved are hatha yoga and postures.

The Involvement of Reflexology
Reflexology or that which is otherwise known as foot massage is also a part of Thai massage. Reflexology is based on the belief that the points contained on the feet are useful enough to cure the body because every point is somehow related to a specific organ. When the energies are enhanced, the person will be able to establish a deeper connection to the Earth.

Thai massage therapy employs techniques that are to be performed for a longer duration of time. It can usually last up to three hours. It is important to engage a licensed therapist to ensure that everything is done properly. However, you should consult your doctor prior to taking any of these techniques to further avoid the dangers to your health.

Here’s an article to find out more about Thai massage.  I have pasted the article below for your convenience.  If you would like to checkout the original article, click here.

ARTICLE PASTED BELOW:

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As I travel quite frequently I really enjoy finding a local Thai Massage centre wherever I may be, and seeing how their service varies from the many I’ve experienced, and in particular how they compare with an authentic Thai Massage experience in Thailand. So on my last trip to NSW Australia, I thought I’d see if I could find a great experience of my favourite kind of Massage in Sydney.

Of all the forms of massage therapy that exist, none intrigue me so much as Traditional Thai Massage. Though I am a qualified massage therapist myself, the system that the Thais have developed still fascinates me more than any other. Possibly the only thing that fascinates me even more is how those rather small Thai women can manipulate a man of my size with such strength! That was certainly my experience in Thailand, I wondered if it would be the same if I got a Thai Massage in Sydney.

Thai massage interestingly began in India. It is a system utilizing both Meridian pressure points and stretching in tandem with an ancient breathing method known as “Pranayama.” The breathing techniques cleanse and relax the muscles while at the same time strengthen the nervous system.

Many Asian massage systems are actually ancient healing rituals  which were created and developed over hundreds of years in India and the Far East.  Asian massage systems are becoming increasingly more popular in western countries. This is in conjunction with the west’s growing interest in holistic forms of relaxation and exercise such as yoga and pilates.

I think that’s one of the reasons I love Thai Massage so much, I love the history and culture that it stemmed from.

So back to my story. When last in Sydney I wanted to find a Thai Massage Therapy centre that was not one of the more commercial centers that I would find advertised in the daily paper. So I just asked around wherever I happened to be, and after a few days I was told, “you must try this little Thai Massage place not far from here”. Ah ha, this could be what I was looking for.

Well, after finding it in the suburb of Burwood, not far west of Sydney CBD, I was greeted by a small lady, clearly a native Thai and I immediately felt very comfortable in this small buy very cosy place. I resisted the urge to go for the more relaxing oil massage or reflexology, and booked an hour long Traditional Thai Massage.

Needless to say, the experience was absolutely delightful and yes I was once again amazed at the strength of this small in stature woman. I will certainly go back on any subsequent visit to get my essential Massage in Sydney.

The one sad element to this story is in a conversation with the lovely Thai woman after the massage, she said that it’s frustrating getting phone calls nearly every day from men looking for “special services” or “happy endings”. This is clearly a genuine and legitimate business and everything on offer is strictly non sexual.

For a wonderful massage experience that is as close as you will find in Thailand, I could not think of a better place for a real Thai Massage in Sydney.

Here is our massage guide that breaks down the ten most popular types of massage therapy to help you find which style is right for you.

1. Swedish Massage Therapy

Swedish massages are the most common type of massage therapy in the United States today.  If a massage type isn’t specified, they’re probably referring to a Swedish massage.  Swedish massages involve long strokes, kneading of the muscles, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscles using massage lotion or oil.

2. Aromatherapy Massage

An aromatherapy massage is the same as a Swedish massage in addition to one or more scented plant oils to address your specific needs.  The oils used, called essential oils, are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, etc.  Some essential oils include lavender, eucalyptus, mentha arvensis, and clove.

3. Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massages involve heated, smooth stones placed on certain parts of the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy in the body.  Stones also may be held and gently applied gently on a body with pressure. Hot stone massages are known to be comforting and good for people with muscle tension who prefer a lighter massage.

4. Thai Massage

Thai massages also align the energies of the body, but by gentle pressure, compressions, and stretches on specific points.  Thai massage is known to be more energizing than most other forms of massage as it reduces stress, improves flexibility, and range of motion.

5. Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage involves slower massaging strokes or friction techniques across the muscles to target deep layers of the muscles and connective tissues.

Deep tissue massages are used for those who suffer from chronically tight muscles, repetitive strain, posture issues, or those who are recovering from an injury.

People who have received a deep tissue massage often report being sore for a couple days after the massage.

6. Shiatsu

Shiatsu, a massage technique from Japan, uses finger pressure on acupuncture points to help the body regain balance.  Each acupuncture point is held for between two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy.  Shiatsu is known to be relaxing and pleasant.

7. Back Massage

Back massages are just what they’re called, a massage specifically for your back.  If you need special attention for your back, most massage therapists offer massages just for your back to help you reduce stress, ease pain, and relax.

8. Reflexology

Reflexology is a foot massage that involves applying pressure to certain parts of the foot that correspond to your organs and vital systems of the body.  Reflexology is used for relaxation, especially for those who are tired and have feet aches.

9. Sports Massage

Sports massages are used specifically for those involved in sports or any other kind of physical activity.  The focus is on prevention, treating an injury, and enhancing athletic performance.

The massage is a combination of techniques including Swedish massage, facilitated stretching, and more.

10. Pregnancy Massage

The pregnancy massage, also known as a prenatal massage, is done to expectant mothers who can expect to reduce stresss, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, reduce anxiety and depression.  Be sure to find a massage therapist who is certified in pregnancy massages and are familiar with the peoper way to position and support the woman’s body during the duration of the massage.