Thai Massage: Sacred Body Work
By Ananda Apfelbaum (Avery, $18.95)
Thai massage is a “new idea†with ancient roots. The technique combines leaning pressure, reflexology, energy line work, yoga, stretching, and a process called “blood stopping†(manipulating the flow of blood to different parts of the body) to relax and invigorate the body, increase muscular range of motion, and improve energy flow. In this well-presented book, Apfelbaum, a massage therapist who trained in Thailand, provides an excellent primer to Thai massage, covering its history, development, and practice. The extensive how-to section, illustrated largely with photos, is a fine training guide for practitioners and subjects alike. Although performing a complete Thai massage is a complex process that requires experience, non-professionals will find plenty of techniques to adapt for at-home use with a partner. A useful addition to your massage reference shelf.
—L.G.E.
ÂNovember/December 2003
