Thailand’s Nuad Boran (ancient bodywork) traces back to India 2,500 years ago.  Today, Thais attribute the origins of their traditional medicine (of which Nuad Boran is included) to Dr Jivaka Kumar Bhacca, physician to the Buddha & the sangha (order of Buddhist nuns and monks). According to legend, Jivaka was born with a bag of acupuncture needles in his hand and was therefore predestined to become a doctor and royal physician.

Thai medicine focuses on the circulation of vital energy (lom) in ten major energy pathways (sen).  This vital energy and its pathways are similar to qi and its meridians in the Chinese tradition and prana and its nadis in the yogic tradition.  Important pressure points for diagnosis and treatment are found along the sen and applied therapy to them assists in removing blockages to and stimulating the free flow of this vital energy. 

To receive a treatment, one remains fully clothed and lays on a floor futon.  Then, the therapist employs a wide range of techniques on a passive recipient.  Using her thumbs, fingers, palms, forearms, elbows, knees and feet, the therapist dynamically combines myofascial stretching, joint mobilization, acupressure, energy balancing, rhythmic deep tissue compression, soft tissue manipulation, assisted yoga asana, and mindfulness meditation.  Maintained throughout the session is a trademark soothing, rocking rhythm.  As a result, joints open, muscles and tendons stretch, internal organs tone, and vitality surges.   One leaves a session feeling simultaneously relaxed and rejuvenated.  Sessions typically last between one-and-a-half to three hours. 

The Thai Yoga Bodywork (TYB), developed by Jonas Westring, is based on the northern style of Thai Massage as it has evolved in the Chiang Mai province of northern Thailand.  TYB’s unique approach stays true to the traditional form while adding perspectives from both yoga and biomechanics to optimize treatment results. As the practitioner mindfully "dances" around her client, she incorporates yoga poses, breathing techniques, and meditative mindfulness practices. This supports her ability to maintain seamless awareness of movement and energy throughout the entire Thai Yoga session.

Sara began studying Traditional Thai Massage in 2000 with some of Thailand’s most prominent healers such as Pichest Boonthumme, Tassanee “Coocky” Boonsom, and “Mamma Lek,” as well as at the Old Medicine Hospital.   In the United States, Sara has studied with and assisted Jonas Westring in his Thai Yoga Bodywork trainings and workshops. She has also taught introductory workshops of her own.  Since commencing her studies, Sara has given and received hundreds of sessions. 

Read Sara’s article on Thai Yoga Bodywork

To schedule a session with Sara, contact us at info@fourmermaids.com.