Theory
Generally speaking, practitioners of modern Thai massage operate on the theory that the body is permeated with "lom," or "air," which is inhaled into the lungs and which subsequently travels throughout the body along 72,000 pathways called "sen," or "vessels." Typically, massage therapists manipulate a handful of major sen lines by pressing certain points along the lines. In most models, the sen originate at the navel and spread throughout the body to terminate at the orifices. A significant part of the practice of Thai massage also includes yoga-like stretches which are intended to stimulate the sen and move lom through the body via a pumping action which is connected with the patient's breathing.
The theory of sen and lom is often translated into English as "meridians" and "energy." While there are some superficial similarities to Chinese meridian theory, the Thai system is in fact more closely related to the nadir of the Indian traditions of yoga and Ayurveda. It is said in the Thai tradition that there are 72,000 sen lines. This should not, however, be taken literally, as this number is a traditional Buddhist way of indicating an infinite amount -- the point being that each cell in the human body is linked to every other cell through this infinite and intricate mesh of energy. This energy is known as prana (Sanskrit), chi (Chinese) or palang sak(Thai). The pranic networks permeate the body of any living being, and vibrate in response to physiological, psychological, and spiritual experiences. No one can name or diagram all of the body's infinite energy circuits. However, 10 main sen are commonly taught and used in Thailand's massage schools to treat the entire body.
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