Thai massage is believed to have been developed by Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, physician to Buddha, more than 2,500 years ago in India. It made its way to Thailand, where the Ayurvedic techniques and principles gradually became influenced by traditional Chinese medicine.

For centuries, Thai massage was performed by monks as one component of Thai medicine. While the recorded history of Thai massage was lost during the war with Burmese in 1767, the surviving records are now inscribed in stone and can be found within the temple of Pra Chetuphon in Bangkok, known as Wat Po, the temple of the reclining Buddha. Its spiritual aspect also remains as teachers of the therapy begin classes with the practice of waikru, a series of prayers and recitations dedicated to Shivago Komarpaj, the father of Thai massage and the God of Healing, and teachers of the tradition through the centuries.

From original manuscript at Wat Pho, “Contortion” is the exercise with stretch and slow movement for body and mind contentment. Contorted Hermit exercise was not only used for body exercise, but also brings about strength, activeness, and relaxation. In addition, it can be applied to cure some simple diseases and bring healthiness.