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Traditional Burmese Massage (also known as Myanmar Massage or Burmese Touch) draws heavily on Indian, Thai, Chinese, and Tibetan techniques and concepts as well as is designed for general health. Traditional Burmese massage therapy sessions do not use oils lotions, creams or pastes. However, it’s essential to remember that this may differ depending on the location where the massage is being performed, as well as the method by which it is done. Burmese massage therapy is typically brief, focused, and warm. It is geared toward relaxation. The objective of any massage is to assist clients in reducing muscular tension, increase the flexibility and range of motion, increase blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, enhance mental performance, rejuvenate and revitalize the body, alleviate spasms and muscle pain as well as decrease stress. It is the main goal of massage to induce an atmosphere of peace and relaxation that will help clients recover faster from the effects of stress.
We have learned to adapt the Myrtle or chamomile massage techniques to different requirements and styles in western countries like the United States, Japan, Canada and Australia. The massage is not as an act of ritual in the countries of the east like Myanmar. My experience with Burmese massage, Thailand massage or any other type of massage has been consistent over the years of practicing Thai massage. It was developed by a group students in the Far East, who come from a family of traditional massage professionals who were called the “Druk Yai.” The practice isn’t nearly as varied as other types of massages that are used across Thailand. However, it offers its own distinct healing methods and benefits.
As an Asian massage therapist who worked for six years (and nights) in northern Thailand I did not observe the widespread usage of the “Myrrh” that I have observed throughout the rest of Thailand. It is likely due to the limitations of the Thai language to accurately translate the word to my English language. I also spent an extensive period of time (about two years) in northern Myanmar, so I know a good bit about the general myrrh practice there. Certain changes I’ve observed throughout the years could be due to the shift from myrrh-based healing towards “herbal medicine.”
Myrrh isn’t found in Thailand’s other. This could be due to acceptance of herbal and natural therapies. The majority of massages performed in Thailand remain based on the use of gels, oils or creams as well as waxes. This is because of the many messages (masseurs) which are employed to deliver massage services. The oil-based treatments are thought to be “luxurious,” so many Thai massage spas follow this standard.
Furthermore, many massaging spas located in northern Thailand have adopted the concept that aromatherapy is a form of “Oriental herbal medicine.” They are also utilized across the United States, Canada and Europe. Traditional healing techniques aren’t used in many massage site spas in Thailand. These kinds of practices are not consistent with the practices of larger spas, which are more conservatively run massage spas in northern Thailand.
My experience using traditional Burmese massage showed a distinct style than most of the westerners I was studying. The style, which I would classify as “Myanma” or “Myrobalan,” involves gentle pressure that is applied to specific acupoints in the body. This is mostly done with kneading. This method uses lengthy strokes, which aren’t often used in Thai massage, in which the practitioner is only using one hand. After the massage my skin felt softer and I was able to sleep peacefully.
I also found out that traditional Burmese massages are usually accompanied by a special herbal concoction. The most commonly used ingredients are such ingredients as Lavan, Brahmi and Mistletoe. While the herbs vary between different regions, the aim is to provide you with an overall feeling of wellbeing. In addition to these traditional Burmese massage techniques, my research also discovered that in the northern part of Thailand many massage therapists use Ostrich feathers as well as ginseng to aid clients suffering from issues with muscle spasms brought on by arthritis.
Massages for the entire body are well-known for its many advantages. The relaxing effects it provides on my body and mind were obvious immediately after receiving it. These techniques for full body massage aren’t what the Thais refer to, but I can tell you that I felt more energetic and alert after receiving them. The feeling of relaxation extended to my entire body. The basic techniques my Myanmar massage instructor taught me gave me the strength and energy to tackle my everyday tasks without anxiety or stress.
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