Thai yoga massage is a mind-body-spirit practice that has the same roots as the ancient understanding of Ayurveda. Buddhism and it’s teachings traveled down through Southeast Asia and into Thailand where we can begin to see the evolution of the Thai massage practice as one part of a larger Traditional Thai Medical system.
Thai massage incorporates many different soft tissue manipulation techniques (massage, fascial release, chopping, and many more) with assisted stretches and meditation in order to achieve a deep state of relaxation. This modality of touch emphasizes that each physical body is different and has different needs, meaning that no two massages are ever exactly the same.
There are indeed many styles and methods of practice, though most commonly we see treatments that are generally performed on the floor on padded mats, with receivers fully clothed and without the use of oils. Intuition is a guiding force in our massage sessions, as is a thorough understanding of the human body. Through meditation we are able to tune into our intuition and allow the massage to come from a place of Metta (compassion).
At Navina™, we focus on optimal biomechanics, the use of anatomy and creating a deeply relaxing client experience while still maintaining the heart-centred approach of this ancient art form. Within the Navina™ courses we also attempt to expand the ideas and methods that are commonly presented in trainings in order to build a more comprehensive study and investigation of the human mind-body-spirit.
Navina™ trainings are unique because we teach functional anatomy of the body. A sound understanding of anatomy will help to inform our intuition, enable us to share more information with clients in a meaningful dialogue, improve our professional image, and assist in developing our own body awareness for safety and longevity in practice. By adding the knowledge of anatomy to our tool belt we can ultimately make ourselves better practitioners.
Commitment to Quality:
Principal Certification Requirements:
Unlike any other Thai Yoga Massage school, Navina™ has Quality Assurance requirements that all certified practitioners and students must be aware of. Once each student has obtained Principal Certification, it is valid for a period of 18 months from the date of issue. We have established this system to ensure that Navina™ Certified Practitioners are maintaining the highest possible standard of practice and that they are continuously studying and expanding their skills to best serve their clients. Continuing education is a vital component of personal development and business success. In order to renew certification, students must either re-train Module 3, or register and participate in an Advanced Module (or Specialty Module “Thai on the Table”). Upon renewal, your new certificate will be validated for another 18 months.
Advanced Certification Requirements:
Graduates of the Navina™ Advanced Certification will maintain an active certificate or 3 years before it requires renewal. To renew an Advanced Certificate for an additional 3 years each student must do one of the following: re-train in any of the Advanced Modules, take part in “Thai on the Table” (Specialty Module), or complete additional training in one of our Extended Curriculum branches that delve deeper into the topics covered in the Advanced Modules as well as in-depth anatomy training. This must be done within the 3-year time frame.