How to Do the Shoulder-Hip Stretch for Thai Massage

One of the oldest forms of body work, Thai massage dates back to the times of Buddha. Also called Thai yoga, Thai massage combines a variety of massage and stretching techniques to not only relax the body and soothe tired, aching muscles, but to also balance the body's energy. With a few simple tips, you'll soon add the shoulder-hip stretch to your Thai massage routine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Large, soft exercise mat

1. Practice Thai massage on a large soft mat on the floor, as many of the stretching exercises cannot be performed on a traditional massage table. Make sure that your mat is big enough to accommodate your client's body, while allowing you space to move on all sides.

2. Begin with your client face down on the mat and rest on your knees on one side of their body, near their legs. Place your lower leg between theirs with the sole of your foot flat on the ground and your knee bent. Lean over and pick up your client's outside ankle with your lower hand, bending the knee and bringing the ankle to your shin.

3. Reach over the client's body and grasp her wrist with your other hand and then push against your feet and slowly come to standing position. Very gently press the sole of your dominant foot against the curve of their hip. Do not apply any pressure with your foot, instead, use it as an anchor to hold the body in place and deepen the stretch. You are bringing the client's body into your foot, more than your foot is pressing down into their body.

4. Lean your body towards your outside shoulder, bringing the client's leg with you and stretching their body along the front of the leg, the hip and the shoulder. Gently release the arm and leg and repeat the Thai massage shoulder-hip stretch on the opposite side.