Clarissaglow Academy

Learning thai massage pressure points

Thai Massage: Master Watpo and Lanna Techniques

ASCA-Approved Continuing Education | The Sublime Art of Thai Techniques & Tradition 1

Immerse yourself in the time-honored practice of Traditional Thai Massage with this 40-hour, ASCA-approved continuing education course. You’ll explore both Wat Po and Lanna lineages—learning the ancient theory of Sen energy lines and essential anatomy—before moving into hands-on training of floor-work, assisted stretches, and rhythmic pressure techniques. Rounding out your education, you’ll master professional ethics, client intake, and clear communication skills. By course end, you’ll confidently deliver a fully sequenced, 60- to 90-minute Thai massage session. Experience the perfect balance of tradition and technique, and elevate your practice today.

Why Choose This Course?

  • ASCA-Approved: Earn 40 hours of recognized continuing-education credit toward your professional development.
  • Authentic Teachings: Learn both Watpo and Lanna styles, passed down through generations of master practitioners.
  • Holistic Approach: Balance body, mind, and spirit with techniques grounded in Thai healing traditions.
  • Small Class Size: Enjoy personalized guidance and hands-on feedback from experienced instructors.
  • Combines authentic techniques from two prestigious Thai massage schools.
  • Provides comprehensive theoretical and practical training.
  • Offers a clear, structured approach suitable for beginners and seasoned practitioners.
  • Enhances your skills in a supportive and professional learning environmen
  • Historical Origins & Theoretical Principles
    Discover the roots of traditional Thai massage, including its historical and cultural significance.

  • Sen Energy Lines & Their Therapeutic Role
    Learn the pathways of energy (Sen) in the body and how to work with them for therapeutic benefits.

  • Hands-On Techniques
    Develop essential practical skills through guided, hands-on practice.

  • Practitioner’s Body Mechanics
    Understand how to protect your own body by applying correct posture and movement techniques.

  • Assisted Stretching & Pressure Techniques
    Master Thai-style assisted stretching and targeted pressure applications for effective treatment.

  • Introduction to Acupressure Techniques
    Learn basic acupressure methods to complement Thai massage practices.

  • Client Care & Professional Ethics
    Understand the importance of client care, respectful communication, and professional conduct.

  • Thai Massage Cultural Context & Client Screening
    Learn to screen clients for contraindications and respect Thai cultural massage traditions.

  • Session Planning & Structure
    Discover how to structure a complete Thai massage session from start to finish.

  • Communication, Consent & Professional Boundaries
    Learn how to maintain clear communication, obtain informed consent, and respect professional boundaries at all times.

  • Mastery of Thai massage basics: Sen lines, acupressure, and assisted stretches.

  • Confident use of thumbs, palms, elbows, and forearms to deliver safe, effective pressure.

  • Mastery of Lanna “accordion” stretches and traditional Watpo floor-work.

  • Ability to read and respect each client’s comfort level and body condition.

  • Comprehensive session preparation: hygiene, positioning, safety.

  • Fundamental knowledge of anatomy and contraindications.

  • Implementation of a structured therapeutic massage protocol.

  • Solid grasp of professional ethics, hygiene, and client communication.

  • Adherence to professional ethics and practice safety.

1. Theory Objective: Build a solid conceptual foundation in Traditional Thai Massage (TTM) theory, energy lines, and anatomy.

History & Philosophy 

Origins of Thai massage: Ayurvedic, Chinese and Buddhist influences

Evolution of Wat Po and Lanna lineages

Energy Lines (Sen) & Meridian Theory 

Introduction to the ten major Sen lines

How blocked Sen manifest as tension or pain

Mapping Sen to common client complaints

Anatomy & Physiology Basics 

Musculoskeletal overview: key muscles and joints used in TTM

Basic biomechanics: safe body mechanics for practitioner and receiver

Contraindications and red-flag conditions

Session Structure & Rhythm 

Typical flow of a Thai massage session (60–90 min)

Breath and movement coordination

Adapting rhythm to different client needs


2. Practical Training 
Objective: Master hands-on techniques, stretches and full-body sequence through guided practice.

Warm-Up & Practitioner Body Mechanics 

Posture, weight transfer and joint alignment

Stretching and self-care exercises to prevent injury

Foundational Techniques 

Palm and thumb pressure: depth, angle, and pacing

Elbow, forearm and knee techniques for deeper tissue work

Wrist guards and leverage principles

Full Sequence Integration & Practice 

Assembling a 60-minute treatment flow

Partnered practice with peer feedback

Time-management tips: keeping on schedule


3. Ethics & Client Communication 
Objective: Develop the soft skills and professional standards essential to a safe, ethical practice.

Client Intake & Contraindications 

Conducting a thorough health history interview

Recognizing when to modify or refuse treatment

Documentation and consent forms

Professional Boundaries & Ethics 

Touch etiquette and cultural sensitivity

Confidentiality, hygiene and workstation setup

Pricing, cancellation policy and client follow-up

Effective Communication & Aftercare 

Explaining techniques and setting expectations

Giving self-care advice and takeaway exercises

Course Details

Duration: 40 hours

Format: In-person, hands-on training in Geneva

Location: Clarissaglow Academy, Avenue Louis Casai 71, 1216 Cointrin

Language: The course is taught in English and French

Certification: ASCA-approved continuing education certificate (40h) provided upon successful completion

Certification Requirements:

    • Minimum 90% attendance

    • Active participation in both practical and theoretical sessions

    • Successful completion of the final evaluations

Date: June 12-13-14-15-16

August 15-16-17-18-19

Prices: Chf 1400.-

Contact us for more information : +41 76 802 9983 

Subscription: academy@clarissaglow.ch