The Palais Rhoul & Spa Dakhla
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Lao massage; Lazy Yoga ...
Certain aspects are characteristic of Laotian massage. It is performed on a mat, on the floor, rather than on a high table. This takes into account a certain number of movements and procedures which are not practical or effective with table work, or even impossible at times. Specifically, massage on a mat allows for efficient and maximum use of the practitioner's body weight, rather than the only muscular force used in other types of massage. Through body weight and pressure control, force and energy are applied and communicated by the practitioner to the client.
The work of Laotian massage consists mainly of pressure on the energy lines of the body with a variety of precise and powerful movements. If the energy lines and the pressure points are the central device of the Laotian massage, it should not however be equated with Chinese acupressure or shiatsu massage. The body diagrams are quite similar, but the practices are very different. In Laotian massage the energy lines and pressure points are worked during a global massage of the whole body which can be performed in a period ranging from 1 to 2 hours. An hour is really too short, ideal 1h30. Laotian massage is not a quick relaxation of muscles and joints. It is a complete massage that stimulates and irrigates almost all parts of the body. The stretching and pressure movements of the Laotian massage "open" the body soaks up the facias, resulting in regeneration and deep relaxation.
These are not exercises in the literal sense and no part of the Laotian massage is so called, because the beneficiary is passive and it is the practitioner who does all the work. Stretching movements affect the whole body. They increase flexibility, and release tension on the different floors. They complement the massage on the energy lines and pressure points so that the 3 together provide a whole body massage strategy.
An important feature of the Lao massage tradition is the practitioner himself and what he has been taught. Traditionally this massage has been passed orally from generation to generation. It was originally taught in Buddhist temples, while some temples in Thailand still transmit this art. Practitioners are taught to be sensitive to the client's body, the concept being based in part on the practitioner's ability to match their body with that of the client in terms of movement, rhythm and energy. Thus, all the characteristics of traditional Laotian massage contribute to the whole body concept, including the practitioner's use of special techniques taught in the monastic tradition. The goal of Laotian massage is to provide relaxation, balance to various centers of the body, healthy circulation of blood and activation of energy lines.
The masseur receives complete training and learning before taking a patient. The "method" of Laotian massage is the basis of all good practice. Those who have been trained in the art of Laotian massage must cultivate a certain number of attitude and method points. It is customary to say that it sometimes takes a lifetime to properly master this art.
