Bob Haddad is a Registered Thai Therapist, teacher and author who has studied and practiced traditional Thai massage since 1999. He is the founder and director of Thai Healing Alliance International, teaches workshops internationally, and has organized international conferences on Thai healing arts.

Introduction

1 Tools and Preparations The treatment room; props and accessories; pre-session physical and mental preparations; preliminary assessment; during and after the session

2 Guidelines for Effortless and Effective Work Rocking and bodyweight; movement and angle of approach; stillness and release of tension; energy and self-protection

3 Assessment
Maintaining records; physical and non-physical indicators; reading body language; using Thai element theory

4 Breath - The Key to Movement and Ease Breath assessment; working with breath awareness; synchronized and opposite breathing; breath exercises for therapists and clients

5 Intention and Finesse Conscious intention; applying pressure; movement and sensing; working with fi nesse; patterns of movement; technique variations

6 Lower Body Concepts
Preparations; beginning the work; concepts, techniques, and strategies for the lower body

7 Upper Body Concepts
The abdomen; concepts, techniques, and strategies for the upper torso; guidelines for fi nal supine position

8 Refining Classic Techniques Twelve important Thai techniques that are often done incorrectly: detailed explanations, with photos and variations

9 Flow and Structuring a Sequence
Transitional movements and distraction techniques; exercises to improve flow; supine work review; sequences and body positions; activating energy lines

10 Sensing and IntuitionHolistic health; channeling intuition; intuition exercises; sharpening sensing abilities; sensing exercises

11 Using Feet in Thai Massage
Variations and benefits; concepts and body positions; contact, pressure, movement, and non-thinking; useful techniques

12 Thai Compresses and Medicinal Herbs
Overview and preparation of compresses; precautions and guidance; materials and techniques; medicinal poultices, balms and oils; herbal steams and baths; teas and food

13 It Makes a Difference to Know the Difference
Misrepresentations and misconceptions about Thai massage; growth through tradition; dignifying Thai healing arts

Appendix

Acknowledgments

Glossary of Important Terms

Bibliography

Index

About the Author