Master Thai Therapist

The History of Thai Massage

Practiced in Thailand for thousands of years, Thai Massage is truly an ancient therapy. Thai Massage was developed more than 2500 years ago by Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha (Dr. Shivago) a friend to the Buddha and his personal physician. With a vast knowledge of medicine, his story can be found in the ancient Indian texts dating back to the 4th Century BCE. Thais also believe that Jivaka invented traditional medicine and for us, he is the father of Thai massage. He is also referred to as the ‘Father Doctor’ and in the Thai healing practice, thanks are given to the Father Doctor before and after massage.

Old texts describe Jīvaka giving treatments to the Buddha, for example, when the Buddha had a cold and when the Buddha was hurt after an attempt on his life. Not only a healer but Jīvaka also developed an interest in the Buddha’s teachings and adopted the Buddha’s five precepts:

Thai medicine is believed to have influences from ancient Thai royal traditions and from how the art was practiced throughout the kingdom. It was passed through generations by educating a select few but now is accessible to all. The Royal tradition of Thai medicine was also developed at the royal court and has influence from India, China, the Muslim world.

The Thai people have been practicing Ayurvedic medicinal traditions brought to them from India thousands of years ago. During its peak, many physicians were Buddhists including the great Buddhist sage Nagarjuna, of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. Thai’s today maintain these traditions and it forms the base of what we believe to be the true way to maintain your health.

Emanating from India, techniques and practices of massage have evolved in Thailand to become known as Thai massage. Wrapped up in other important health practices for the body such as yoga, Thais believe that a healthy body, a clear mind and maintaining a body’s natural balance go hand in hand with our belief in the Buddhist way of life.