Bob HaddadThe Art of Thai Massage
A Guide for Advanced Therapeutic Practice
Bob Haddad is a Registered Thai Therapist, teacher and author who has studied and practiced traditional Thai massage since 1999. He is the founder and director of Thai Healing Alliance International, teaches workshops internationally, and has organized international conferences on Thai healing arts.
Introduction
1 Tools and Preparations
The treatment room; props and accessories; pre-session physical and mental
preparations; preliminary assessment; during and after the session
2 Guidelines for Effortless and Effective Work
Rocking and bodyweight; movement and angle of approach; stillness and
release of tension; energy and self-protection
3 Assessment
Maintaining records; physical and non-physical indicators; reading body
language; using Thai element theory
4 Breath - The Key to Movement and Ease
Breath assessment; working with breath awareness; synchronized and opposite
breathing; breath exercises for therapists and clients
5 Intention and Finesse
Conscious intention; applying pressure; movement and sensing; working with
fi nesse; patterns of movement; technique variations
6 Lower Body Concepts
Preparations; beginning the work; concepts, techniques, and strategies for
the lower body
7 Upper Body Concepts
The abdomen; concepts, techniques, and strategies for the upper torso;
guidelines for fi nal supine position
8 Refining Classic Techniques
Twelve important Thai techniques that are often done incorrectly: detailed
explanations, with photos and variations
9 Flow and Structuring a Sequence
Transitional movements and distraction techniques; exercises to improve
flow; supine work review; sequences and body positions; activating energy
lines
10 Sensing and Intuition
Holistic health; channeling intuition; intuition exercises; sharpening
sensing abilities; sensing exercises
11 Using Feet in Thai Massage
Variations and benefits; concepts and body positions; contact, pressure,
movement, and non-thinking; useful techniques
12 Thai Compresses and Medicinal Herbs
Overview and preparation of compresses; precautions and guidance; materials
and techniques; medicinal poultices, balms and oils; herbal steams and
baths; teas and food
13 It Makes a Difference to Know the Difference
Misrepresentations and misconceptions about Thai massage; growth through
tradition; dignifying Thai healing arts
Appendix
Acknowledgments
Glossary of Important Terms
Bibliography
Index
About the Author
