My first encounter with Thai reflexology was in 2009 when travelling to Thailand and seeing rows of reclining chairs with Thai ladies giving foot massages to relaxed and happy clients while the public watched.
Up to this point I had never realised how enjoyable a foot massage could be and it inspired me to learn. Later returning to the UK I went on to get qualified in conventional reflexology.
The two methods of reflexology have many similarities, as they both work on the reflex points of the feet and of course both methods will give the similar benefits including improved circulation, lymph drainage, boosting the immune system, encouraging physical healing and aiding sleep.
The History
The ancient Thai reflexology foot massage was developed more than 2000 years ago, developed from Indian Ayurveda practices, Chinese Tuina and Japanese Shiatsu. Originally practiced by Buddhist Monks in the Thai Royal Palace, this technique is now available through out Thailand.
Western style reflexology was introduced by Dr Fitzgerald an American who after graduating came to work in London around the beginning of the 20th Century. He found that in applying pressure to certain parts of the feet (also hands, nose, throat and tongue) he could induce pain relief. On returning to the U.S. in 1909 he wrote a book on ‘Zone Therapy’. Eunice Ingham extended the work of Dr Fitzgerald by mapping the feet with all the corresponding organs and glands of the body is still known as the pioneer of modern reflexology.
Style & Practice
Thai foot massage incorporates elements of reflexology and extends to the ankles and legs as well. Thai foot massage / reflexology usually takes about an hour, which is significantly longer than a conventional reflexology treatment in the West. During the treatment the masseur uses their hands, fingers, thumbs, knuckles as well as a unique rounded wooden stick. The treatment starts with stretching of the foot and ankle, before cream is applied "opening the pathways of energy". In Thai foot massage it is believed that the massage must be done in stages, readying the subject for each successive step so that each step in turn can be most effective. In the second part of the treatment, the wooden stick is introduced and used in the form of a “pencil”, drawing invisible lines on the sole of the foot. Part three sees the return of the hands, using thumbs, fingers and knuckles. In part 4 the skin is pushed into the sole of the foot at 29 locations to stimulate each of those reflex points. Part 5 finishes the treatment by massaging the lower leg and knee.
Thai reflexology does not use the caterpillar style thumb walking as used in the West. Using a wooden stick to stimulate the reflexes makes it extremely difficult to assess whether there is any congestion in that region and I was not taught to keep a record of the findings that I would when carrying out a treatment here. Of course both require a consultation prior to commencement.
Thai reflexology foot massage does however considerably more relaxation techniques, and with massage to the lower leg and knee is often preferred where the client suffers with tired legs.
Many masseurs in Thailand produce their own balm and it tends to include camphor, eucalyptus and menthol. Sometimes a different product is used for massaging the knee using an addition of chilli oil, which is warming and anaesthetising.
I personally make my own totally natural organic foot cream with lavender, peppermint and tea tree essential oils in it.
Studying both methods of reflexology means that I able to offer a unique reflexology treatment; it does take a little longer, but my clients do enjoy it!