The art of massage is deeply rooted in the yoga practices of India, It must have reached China via monks, sages and travelers who journeyed to and from India across Central Asia along the Silk Road, and then spread swiftly through East Asia.

The traditional forms of massage probably reached Thailand through the Hindu Brahmin Practitioners, who may have come here as courtiers in the royal palaces of Khmer kings.

Traditional Thai massage is a combination of ancient Indian and Chinese techniques. By the time King Rama III was on the throne, massage had become a way of life in Thailand, so much so that he ordered that the basic theories be carved in stone, lest they be forgotten. The engravings are kept in the Wat Po compound in Bangkok.

Traditional Thai massage is premised on ancient Vedic principles. Thus, Wat Po has become the traditional center for traditional Thai massage or " ancient massage, " as it is more commonly called. At the Wat Po "centers, "the same basic principles are followed by men and women masseurs, with slight variations in style. The " mornuat " (literally "massage doctor") press their fingers on muscles that the patient cannot reach. They also stretch the arms and legs. Usually, their efforts are centered on the area where the patient has a problem - be it backache, a twisted neck, or a tennis elbow. It takes up to two hours for a Thai massage, but it can add years to your life.

The body is first treated from waist down. The pressure points are worked on to get energy flowing. It is very physical, but it isn't painful. In fact, it's soothing and relaxing. You will find it as an excellent way to recharge after a hectic day of sightseeing or after an excessive partying.

More than a form of relaxation, it is used in preventive medicine and some practitioners believe it can cure physical ailments.

Bangkok has a number of traditional Thai massage centers where you can experience cure and pleasure for practically a penny. What are you waiting for?

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