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When it comes to healthy stretching, people might typically think of Yoga or Pilates since these two disciplines have really come to the fore in the public eye over recent years. However, there is a form of stretching that has a distinctly local feel, and was first developed in the kingdom over 200 years ago.
While this form of stretching has been almost exclusively carried out by traditional Thai massage therapists, the Institute of Thai Traditional Medicine, under the ministry of public health's Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, has 'dusted it down' in the hope of spurring greater interest. The institute recently republished a (Thai-language) book that highlights this traditional form of exercise called Thai Body Stretch: 15 Fundamental Postures of Thai Hermit's Stretching Exercises, which comes with an instructional VCD.
According to the book, these stretching exercises are thought to have been developed by hermits in days gone by, who were looking to get some relief for their muscles after sitting for long periods of time in order to meditate. While these characters have probably been active in Thailand for more than 2,000 years, the practice was first formulated on the order of King Rama I around 1788 through the use of statues that are currently located at the temple of Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha).
Over the years, several of the statues became damaged or broken, so during the reign of King Rama III (1787-1851), the monarch ordered that the various postures be formally defined and reconstructed where necessary. Once completed, there were 80 poses represented, each accompanied by a verse describing each form.
New postures emerged following the passing of King Rama III and, according to Pennapa Sapcharoen and Kanchana Deevisit, who carried out all the necessary research for the book, there are now 127 postures in all. However, the book focuses on 15 basic postures, which are easy to follow and can be self-taught with the support of the guidance provided by the book and VCD. Health benefits
Thai hermit stretches differ markedly from yoga since most of the postures are not too 'forced'. They can reduce aches and pains in your joints and muscles from your head to your toes, including cramps in your hands and feet. Many of them can even be carried out while sitting in front of a computer screen.
The stretches provide at least four main benefits for practitioners.
Firstly, the rhythmic movements can stimulate blood circulation and drainage, which are fairly typical benefits when it comes to exercise. In order to benefit from this, please note that the exercise activity needs to last for at least 30 minutes.
Secondly, some postures include a form of 'self massage', which can basically ease aches and pains.
These exercises can also help practitioners to improve their breathing. Each posture involves an inhaling and exhaling phase, while in between each phase is a short pause that can allow the oxygen to do your lungs some good. By focusing on the breathing technique and movement, this should also improve your concentration.
A sense of balance
Finally, this form of exercise can help readjust the body's balance.
While working in a passive office job for eight hours a day, it's easy
to remain static. This can lead to muscle tension, clogged blood
vessels, and a general physical imbalance. These kinds of exercises can
help provide the necessary readjustments.
To ensure maximum effectiveness, Kanchana recommends practitioners
begin with a short meditation exercise in order to focus more clearly
on breathing techniques and concentration. Those persons who are
suffering from problems related to the back or spine should not attempt
this form of exercise, however, according to Kanchana.
Beginners should begin with the first pose and then move on to the next
until reaching the 15th (and final) pose. Once you get used to each
position, it is possible to select the one most applicable for the
condition you wish to improve. For example, position numbers three,
four, six and 10 can all be practiced at the office and are concerned
with easing stress during working hours.
Although the Institute of Traditional Thai Medicine hosted a body
stretching course for members of the general public during the months
of March and April, it is not clear when the next course will be held.
However, you should be able to get an update by calling the institute
on Tel: +66 (0)2 951 0319. You can also request a free copy of the book
and VCD, which the institute will be happy to mail to you.
Lifestyle
Whether it's traversing the relatively cosmopolitan “urban free-for-all” that is Bangkok, with its trendy malls, urban wellness centers and posh fitness centers, or perhaps traversing the wild trails outside city limits, explore activities to suit your lifestyle.
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