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Thai medicine, which is comprised of diet, medicinal treatment and manipulation techniques, is very effective in treating sickness and disease. Thai massage, like traditional Chinese medicine, focuses on treating the whole person by correcting the imbalance of the body’s energy flow.

Thai massage is made up of four techniques including a therapy similar to shiatsu. The focus is to stimulate energy channels, referred to as “Sen” in Thailand and meridians in ancient Chinese medicine. Shiatsu and Thai massage are very similar, however the main difference is that Thai massage uses pressure along energy channels in both directions, whereas shiatsu only moves in one direction.

Reflexology, another technique used in Thai massage therapy, is based on the belief that applying pressure to reflexes on the feet and hands can effectively treat the entire body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology stimulates blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. Reflexology is a beneficial tool for promoting relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; chronic fatigue, fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

The third technique used in ancient Thai massage is blood stopping. I know, it sounds a little weird, but according to theory, cutting off a major source of circulation for up to one minute will result in increased pressure at first. This will make the heart slow down contractions in order to bring down the blood pressure. Then, when the pressure on the artery is released, a fresh supply of blood is rushed to the area, allowing for revitalization and relaxation.

And lastly, Thai massage involves passive stretching exercises. If you are not familiar with passive stretching, this means that the therapist does all of the work. It is done in short intervals, gradually working up to a full range of motion. By stretching and extending your range of motion you ultimately increase blood flow throughout the body.

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. Furthermore, in most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease. Even the most technically advanced countries such as China and Japan, appreciate the effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine. In fact, we could stand to take some of their knowledge to heart these days. In our society today, one that relies heavily on chemically laden prescription drugs, psychotherapy and surgical procedures to “heal” the sick, there has never been a better time to look into such alternatives. Where conventional medicine has failed, natural medicine can make a real difference. If you are new to alternative medicine, reflexology treatment is a good place to start. It is extremely beneficial; often results are felt after just one treatment. Furthermore, if you opt to learn it yourself, it is free medicine!

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Massage Therapy.

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Tags: blood pressure, chronic fatigue, Fertility, Massage Therapy, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, thai massage therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine

Stress has become an everyday part of life for most of us and we do very little to cope with it. Some stress is actually a good thing as it helps keep us on our toes, ready to cope with whatever challenge we might have to face. Too much stress, however, is detrimental to the body, mind and spirit. Recognizing the signals of stress and stress related problems could reduce the damage that stress can cause. It can be difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress, as vary from person to person. So all symptoms of excessive stress may not be easily observed but those that are can also help to identify stressors and then recognize the other symptoms. If we pay attention to the early warning signs of stress, the effects can be combated preventing further harm.

Some of the most common early warning signs of excess stress are chronic fatigue, excessive irritability or moodiness, amplified or disproportionate anxiety, poor emotional control, noticeable changes in appetite, sleep patterns or sex drive, insomnia, critical feelings of dependency or helplessness and withdrawal from normal activity or responsibility. One may even verbally express signs of stress by making comments or talking about not being able to relax, feeling tense, and inability to focus or stay on task. They may verbalize that they don’t feel good or are miserable and don’t know why.

If you pay close attention to your body you may notice that you feel extremely fatigued, the TV may sound like it is blaring, and a door being shut sounds like it was slammed. One may argue or yell at those around them for no reason. These are indicators that stress has reached a critical level and needs to be dealt with.

While it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress, it is of equal importance to be prepared for situations or events that are potentially stressful. Undergoing or anticipating major changes to ones life such as a move, change in jobs such as a promotion, new job or retirement or family status such as marriage, adoption or pregnancy. If undergoing a major change in one aspect of your life it may be advisable to limit or avoid changes in other aspects. Sometimes people feel stressed at certain times of the day or even of the year due to work or other pressures such as family obligations. For some it is the holidays, for others it’s summer vacation, birthdays or anniversaries.

A good way to lower stress level or to prepare is to write things down. You may want to try keeping a daily log of events and reactions or even just taking a few moments a day to jot down your feelings or emotions. It is also helpful to write down appointments, to do lists, meal plans, and upcoming events instead of relying on memory as this can cause mental anguish and undue stress.

Learning to manage stress can help you to a happier, healthier life; and enjoy your job, family and friends.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more informaton on Stress Management.

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Tags: body mind and spirit, chronic fatigue, Stress Management