The benefits of traditional Thai massage

Traditional Thai massage, or Nuad Bo Rarn, restores balance and energy to the body, and provides many benefits.

In Thailand, thai massage is an integral part of everyday life. They are practiced mainly as a preventive measure, because their regular practice allows you to stay in good health.

Traditional Thai massage is a true alternative medicine that has its roots in the ancestral traditions of Ayurvedic medicine.

In Thailand it is called Nuad Bo Rarn or Nuad Boran. Nuad means “pressure” and boran means “old”.

Of Indian origin, its practice spread to Thailand at the same time as Buddhism, around the 5th century BC.

The Nuad Boran is practiced on the ground on a futon, dressed in loose and comfortable clothes, and without oil or lotion.

The masseur uses his thumbs, elbows, knees, feet to exert pressure on the whole body, as well as stretching and postures.

It is an invigorating massage that works the whole body, and its health benefits are numerous.

In addition to softening the joints and relaxing the muscles, Thai massage helps detoxify the body, in parallel with the 3 other elements of traditional Thai medicine: nutrition, herbal medicine and meditation.

It frees the mind from accumulated stress, relieves tension and stiffness in the body, it is beneficial for blood and lymphatic circulation and it improves the quality of sleep.

You will leave your session completely relaxed and regenerated.

Be careful, however, because there are contraindications, for example for pregnant women, and certain serious illnesses. If in doubt, seek the advice of a doctor.

To give or receive a Thai massage, you should wear loose and comfortable clothes, such as Thai pants and a Thai shirt.

You will find some on my online store, also discover our massage and self-massage accessories!

For a Thai massage in Toulouse, France, we recommend contacting Yeshé from Passaddhi Massages!

Learn more about the spirit of Nuad Boran.

The Powers of Minerals

The powers of minerals are many and varied, find here some of their daily benefits.

Stones to help you relax

Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Rock Crystal: the combined energies of these 3 stones bring love and comfort, softness, serenity and appeasement.

Different stones have calming and soothing properties, such as rock crystal, amethyst, rose quartz, aventurine, etc. These stones fight stress and facilitate sleep. They are also effective in relieving headaches of nervous origin.

Stones to increase your joie de vivre

Some stones bring vitality and good energy, such as tiger’s eye and carnelian. They help us see the world around us in a positive light. They are a valuable support in case of depression, sadness or fatigue. Avoid keeping them close while sleeping.

Tiger’s Eye is the symbol of self-affirmation. It is a stone of protection that endows its wearer with powerful and radiant energy.

Stones to develop creativity

Rock crystal, brecciated jasper, rose quartz and aventurine stones stimulate creative energy. They are very helpful in clearing the mind, relieving stress, and speaking in public. These stones also sublimate the sexual energy. They promote tenderness and empathy, and help remove emotional blockages.

Stones to promote clairvoyance and Spiritual openness

Stones such as lapis lazuli, sodalite, rock crystal, amethyst, etc. promote meditation, the opening of the 3rd eye and the connection with the spiritual worlds. They increase the ability to see and understand beyond the material world.

stones for protection

Indispensable in lithotherapy, they can protect you and your home from the harmful effects of various unhealthy influences: whether negative entities, spells, electromagnetic waves, wifi, bluetooth, as well as bad energy vibrations, whether they emanate from yourself or others…

Some protective stones act by absorbing bad energies, like a sponge, such as black tourmaline, labradorite, obsidian… While others act like a protective shield, repelling the bad vibrations, this is the case of tiger’s eye.

Among the stones of protection, you will find turquoise, jasper, lepidolite, hematite, bull’s eye, onyx…

To each person, and to each moment, corresponds a stone…

Each stone has its own power, an energy of its own and depends on its variety (quartz, jasper, agate, others…), its color (connected to one of the 7 main chakras),…

How to choose your stone or stone bracelet?

Aum, the original vibration

Aum (or Om) is a Sanskrit syllable. It is found in several religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, or Brahmanism.

This sound is considered to be the divine primitive vibration of the Universe which represents all existence. The original sound from which the Universe would have structured.

The AUM syllable therefore represents the totality of what exists, as well as the Hindu trinity:

 The letter A represents the beginning, the birth, and the creator god Brahma.
 The letter U represents continuation, life, and the god Vishnu
 And the letter M represents the end, death, and the destructive god Shiva.

The pronunciation of Aum is sometimes described as follows: first A emerges from the back of the throat, towards the palate, then U rolls on the tongue and M ends on the lips.

A symbolizes wakefulness, U, dream, M, sleep. Awakening corresponds to the fourth step: silence, departure and rebirth of Being.

This is the first syllable of the famous Aum Mani Padme Hum mantra.

See our Om or Aum items in your Arasia store

Thai proverbs, full of wisdom!

At Arasia, we have the soul of the traveler, and one of our favorite countries is of course Thailand, which seduced us with its refinement and omnipresent spirituality, whether in its cities or its countryside!

Discover our Thai proverbs full of wisdom!

Discover our selection of popular Thai proverbs, which often evoke the rural and animal world, because Thailand has traditionally been an agricultural and rice-producing country.

The bond between man and animal, each taking care of the other!

“The rice that is in your attic is your enemy because it arouses the jealousy of those who do not have it”

There is no point in amassing too much wealth, better to share it with your neighbors! If everyone is happy, it will make the world a better place!
“The hen sees the snake’s legs, the snake sees the hen’s teats”

Everything is relative and depends on our point of view: always keep an open mind!
“When the water drops, the ants eat the fish; when the water rises, the fish eat the ants “

Events can cause situations to change, or even reverse themselves completely, never taking anything for granted!
“If a dog bites you, don’t bite the dog”

Take a step back from the events, do not react on a whim, and take the time to think it will be beneficial to you!
“Draw a tiger to scare the cow”

Be smart and don’t hesitate to bluff your opponent!
“It’s hard to get the cane out of the elephant’s mouth”

And now my favorite Thai proverb:
“There is no other happiness than peace”

Let go of what is no more. Let go of what isn’t yet. Observe deeply what is going on in the present moment, but don’t get attached to it. It’s the most wonderful way to live. Buddha

“Stick a gold leaf on the back of a Buddha statue”

This popular Thai expression refers to Buddhist culture: It designates a person who likes to do good, humbly and in all discretion.

Awaken your consciousness, gently, and keep your feet on the Earth, enjoying the present moment, this is the secret of authentic spirituality!

He who sows silence reaps peace.

He who is under the sky, how can he fear the rain?

The fruits do not fall far from the tree.

Hope rises higher than the mountains.

Don’t wake the sleeping tiger.

Who helps his body, helps his mind and calms his mind.

The professor is like a boat waiting for passengers to take them across the river.

Breaking your leg today can save your life the next day.

In youth one must seek knowledge; in old age, a master.

Life is so short, you have to move slowly.

And you, what is your favorite proverb? Do not hesitate to comment on this article !

Small Sanskrit Lexicon

One of the best known yoga's pose is the tree pose
One of the best known yoga’s pose is the tree pose.

Sanskrit is the sacred language of ancient India, many terms of which are now frequently used in the world of yoga and wellness in general.

With our little Sanskrit lexicon, enter a mysterious world of infinite wisdom!

AHIMSA: This term, popularized by Gandhi, means “non-violence” and “benevolence towards all creatures”. This is the first principle of “yamas”, the codified rules guiding yogis on their path of life.

ASANA: Literally “yoga posture, or sitting”.

ASHRAM: spiritual community gathered around a sage.

AUM or OM: primordial vibration of the universe, link between interior and exterior. Represents the four degrees of reality: waking (A), dreaming (U), deep sleep (M) and turya or silence.

The Aum sound is widely practiced in yoga and meditation classes
The Aum sound is widely practiced in yoga and meditation classes.

AYURVEDA: From “ayur”, “life” and “veda”, “knowledge”, Ayurveda is the traditional medicine of India which dates from the Vedic period. According to Ayurveda, Matter is composed of five elements (the tattvas): earth (prithivi), water (apas), fire (tejas), air (vayu) and ether (akasha). These elements come together in three combinations to form what are called “doshas”, which determine the different “types” of people.

BANDHAS: Energy locks in the physical body that yogis use to hold life energy. The three main bandhas are mulabandha (at the level of the root chakra); uddyanabandha (at the level of the diaphragm) and jalandharabandha, (at the level of the throat).

CHAKRAS: The chakras are the energy centers, located along the spine. They are often symbolized by lotuses (padma).

Each of the 7 main chakras is associated with a particular color, sound, and energy properties
Each of the 7 main chakras is associated with a particular color, sound, and energy properties.

DHARMA: this term designates the natural law, the duty, the wheel of the journey of life.

GUNAS: the material world is made up of three qualities which are the “gunas”. These three qualities are present in living beings and food: “tamas” = laziness and resistance; “Rajas” = energy and movement; “Sattva” = balance and purity.

GURU: “Gu” means shadow and “ru” means light. The guru is a master, a teacher who guides us from shadow to light.

KARMA: means “action”, “movement of energy”. Karma is the law of cause and effect (or law of causation).

KOSHAS: The five envelopes of the human being: the physical, energetic, mental, intellectual and spiritual bodies.

LILA: the divine ballet or “game” of the physical world.

MALA: Hindu rosary. In general, the mala is made up of 108 pearls, a sacred number in yogic mythology. Often composed of natural stones and seeds, it is used to count breaths or mantras.

MANDALA: literally “center, circle, unity and totality”. Mandalas are geometric designs widely used as a medium for meditation.

MANTRA: It is a phrase, sequence of words or syllables, repeated while singing, and / or meditating. This practice is based on the power of repetition.

MAYA: It is the illusion of the physical world and the main cause of our suffering.

MOKSHA: Refers to the liberation of the soul, when it has completed its cycle of reincarnations.

MUDRA: Sacred gestures performed with the hands and fingers. The practice of mudras helps to raise vibrational energy.

Chin Mudra is one of the most common mudras
Chin Mudra is one of the most common mudras.

NAMASTA: This is a greeting commonly used in India and in yoga classes as a sign of gratitude, benevolence and peace.

I greet the light that is in You
I greet the light that is in You.

NIRVANA: Refers to the liberation of a being from the cycle of rebirth (samsara). The self is no longer separated from the rest of creation and with this state comes intense happiness. This is the goal of the Buddhist and Hindu spiritual journey.

PRANA: This Sanskrit word means indifferently “vital breath”, “energy of life”, “light”.

PRANAYAMA: “control” or “mastery” of “prana” ie the breathing techniques of yoga.

PUJA: Offering to the statues representing the Gods: chanting of mantras, garlands of flowers, fruits, sacred woods, milk, rice, water, incense…

SADHU: Holy man who gave up earthly pleasures to pursue a spiritual quest.

The Sadhus are called
The Sadhus are called “baba” in India. Devoid of material possessions, often dressed in orange, with long, tangled hair, they roam the roads and devote their lives to spiritual research.

SATYA: Means “truth” in the sense of “sincerity”.

SHANTI: This Sanskrit word often sung by yogis literally means “peace”.

SUTRA: Short philosophical texts which expose a sacred knowledge.

SVASTIKA: Very ancient and powerful symbol of luck and protection. It was used by the Nazis who gave it an extremely negative connotation, but today it needs to be given back its true meaning.

VEDAS: Very ancient sacred texts from India.

YOGA: Indian ancestral art of self-knowledge. Yoga is a holistic practice aimed at training the body, the breath and the mind. It aims for the union of the self and the divine.

YOGI (male), YOGINI (female): practitioner of Yoga

Introducing Ganesh

Ganesha or Ganapati is a cross between the human and divine worlds. His body is that of a man while his head is that of an elephant. His mount, Mushaka, is a tiny rat.

Ganesha or Ganapati is a cross between the human and divine worlds. His body is that of a man while his head is that of an elephant. His mount, Mushaka, is a tiny rat.

Known as the god of wealth, wisdom and luck, traders, travelers and the household. He is the son of Shiva and Parvati.

Ganesh protects from any obstacles and unawareness, and it is customary to make an offering in the form of of flowers (preferably red), fruit (bananas, coconuts, mangoes …), plants, lamps, candles and incense, as well as treats, which he loves before one foregoes an examination, a trip, or a ceremony.

A warm and welcoming god, Ganesh is extremely popular in India and as He is seen in temples, houses, shops, restaurants…

His favorite days are Tuesday and Friday.

Other names of Ganesh are:
Ganapati: Lord of Ganas
Vinyaka: Best guide
Gajnara: Elephant Head

Ganesh statues for sale on my online shop Arasia.

Ganesh-Chaturthi-Desktop-Wallpapers-300x225

Minerals Bracelet: How to choose them and how to wear them?

The mineral (fine stone) bracelet, with round pearls, has become a very trendy fashion accessory. This phenomenon is strongly linked to the needs for renewal and spirituality that we are currently going through.

Indeed, the stones, because of their many powers, can support and guide us in this period of transition.

Indeed, the stones, because of their many powers, can support and guide us in this period of transition

Each stone is different, and each person is different. In addition, in the same person, the effects felt on contact with a stone can vary depending on the day, the moment, the mood …

How to choose a stone or a stone jewel?

There are several possible selection criteria:

  • Feeling : the best and simplest method is to choose, letting yourself be guided by your intuition. If you feel attracted to a stone, or a jewel, it is that it corresponds to you !
  • The virtues of the mineral : choose according to the desired effect, and what you want to work on at the given time.
  • The corresponding color or chakra : each color has its own vibrational energy, and is linked to one of the seven main chakras.
  • Zodiacal connections : you can also let yourself be guided by the table below, and choose your stone bracelet according to your zodiac sign.

On which wrist to wear the stone bracelet?

Stone bracelets are a great way to enjoy the benefits of minerals. Because direct contact with the skin facilitates energy transmission.

In general, it is advisable to wear “active” stones on your right wrist (which bring courage, strength or vitality, for example). Indeed the right wrist is connected to the left cerebral hemisphere, which is the center of logical thinking, analysis, decisions, and action.

The left wrist will receive the “passive” stones, those which bring effects of calm, harmony, and which help in meditation. This wrist is linked to the right hemisphere of the brain, the center of intuitive thinking, sensitivity and the synthetic mind.

open your mind, open your heart

Can we wear several stones together?

You can wear several bracelets on the same wrist, if their virtues are compatible, if their colors are similar, or if they belong to the same mineralogical family (example: agates, quartz, jaspers, etc.)

In general, it is advisable not to carry more than 3 different stones on yourself simultaneously. Except in special combinations (example: 7 chakras, life path, etc.)

Rock crystal can always be worn with any other mineral. Its neutral energy purifies and strengthens the virtues of other stones!


Some additional tips:

  • Do not keep a stone on you permanently, or for too long. Because you will get used to its effects and these will tend to diminish over time.
  • In all circumstances, always trust your intuition. Because lithotherapy is not an exact science, the energy of stones is never frozen. It is experienced differently by people.
  • To offer mineral jewelry, you can apply the same selection criteria mentioned above. Feeling (thinking of the person to whom the gift is intended). Depending on the desired effect. Or the person’s zodiac sign.
  • Remember to purify and recharge your minerals and mineral jewelry on a regular basis.
Remember to purify and recharge your minerals and mineral jewelry on a regular basis

The third eye or 6th chakra

The third eye corresponds according to oriental traditions to the sixth chakra. It is found in various cultures and religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and most meditative practices.

AJNA

People of India often wear on their foreheads a bindi, bindu or tikal, which symbolizes and materializes the third eye, and its Sanskrit name is “Ajn”.

But what really is the third eye?

Look Inside

The third eye is a mystical and esoteric metaphor for the inner gaze, beyond the physical eyes, and more generally for the spiritual awakening.

It is located on the forehead, between the two eyes. It’s the other look, the real look, that of knowing yourself and the world around you. It would also be the centre of the soul.

Pineal gland

The third eye scientifically corresponds to the pineal gland, epiphysis, which is connected to the nose, ears, and the nervous system. It is connected to the hypothalamus, the “heart” of our brain.

The seat of intuition

When its functioning is optimal, the third eye is the source of many gifts and capacities: increased perceptions, clairvoyance, and intense intuition.

We find our ability to make clear choices, and to know what we really want in our life. We are “inspired”.

When this chakra is not functional, we are unfortunately more
egocentric, interested and frightened. We stay focused on our habits and our security without any real possibility of evolution. We cannot calmly accept the vagaries of existence.

Opening of consciousness

Opening the third eye raises awareness, and we become more lucid. We then better understand the thrue essence of the human being, and the meaning of life and death.

How to activate the third eye?

Its proper functioning would be degraded by the heavy metals accumulated in our body, such as fluorine and calcium. But to activate the third eye there are several methods, you can for example:

  • place an intense blue color stone, like a sodalite,
  • massage it with a drop of essential oil of dill, immortelle or palmarosa.
  • You can also place an indigo blue or purple Tesla Plate in the center of your forehead.
  • just materialize it with a bindi

So, are you ready to open your third eye and activate your inner sun?

The poncho: a practical fashion accessory

Both ancestral and contemporary, the poncho is a garment that is part of the Peruvian textile tradition. The poncho has cross time and borders : present in Asia, but also in the Incas, Nazcas and Paracas cultures.

Here is the history of the poncho, the secrets of its popularity today, and the many ways to wear it.

Origins and history of the poncho

The poncho is a typical garment and a traditional heritage of Peru, it is designed as a simple coat that protected people from the cold of winter. It consists of a thick piece of fabric in the shape of a rectangle, cut in the middle to allow the head to pass. The fabric falls on the body and allows the arms to move freely.

Arasia-Shop whoolen poncho

The wool poncho is an outer garment that was originally used by the country folk and was a must for traveling on horseback. It is an ideal garment for protection against rain, dust, hot and cold. Among the Peruvians, each man had his own poncho and its use depended on the context and the situation.

In winter, the poncho was wrapped around the body to protect it from the cold, and in hot weather it was worn around the shoulder. On horseback, it was either wrapped around the belt or worn naturally to protect the body and thighs. The wool poncho was also widely used as a blanket for sleeping.

Why is the poncho so successful?

The poncho is a timeless piece of clothing that has crossed time and borders without aging. It can be worn in many ways and brings style, comfort and elegance. Whether at home or in the street, the poncho offers a relaxed style as well as a bohemian and ethnic look.

It is a garment that brings a cocooning aspect, while being chic and trendy and above all very practical. The poncho is indeed easy to wear and effectively protects from the cold and rain, and this is what makes it so popular.

If originally the poncho was worn in winter, for protection reasons, today it has been able to transform into a real fashion phenomenon, available in several versions. The ways to wear it are endless, and its cut advantageously emphasizes the silhouette by highlighting the legs. Just pair the poncho with slim fit jeans or leather pants and heeled ankle boots to be perfectly stylish.

How to wear the poncho in style?

The poncho easily adapts to all styles, all body types, and whatever the occasion. It certainly does not replace a large coat or down jacket but it is perfect in the fall period, to keep warm, with style and elegance.

The poncho is a garment that instantly revamps an outfit, even the most basic and classic. Do not hesitate to adopt it, for a furiously trendy look. Inspired by Latin American cultures, it brings an ethnic and fantasy style. You have the choice between a modern poncho that you find in supermarkets, or a handcrafted poncho, with Nepalese know-how.

Hand Made by Nepalese Art Craft Men

The poncho in total black look

Being considered a universal coat, the black poncho is suitable for sophisticated outfits as well as a chic look. It is perfectly suited to all types of occasions and can be worn with a black dress or black pants. The total black look with a poncho is easy to compose, practical, and elegant.

Daring colors with the poncho

Originally, the poncho was made with organic fibers, and the peoples of America who wore it favored natural colors. Thus, the dominant colors were brown, burgundy, black or beige.

Today the range of colors and shades is much more varied and richer. It is found in the tones that are the trend of each winter and it adapts easily to all fashions. The modern poncho never goes unnoticed and it attracts attention by the class it brings to an outfit.

It comes in bright colors like red, pink or bright yellow, to enhance a classic outfit or to emphasize a more sober look. Otherwise a poncho in soft pastel colors is ideal for gray days to add some sunshine.

Dare the colorful poncho with a short skirt and boots, or with pants in classic colors.

Wear a poncho with a short dress

What if you could enjoy the good weather while staying warm under your poncho? According to your desires, and the colors you like, associate a light poncho with a dress in the same tones or black. Whether in cool weather or on milder days, the poncho will adapt and bring you the necessary comfort.

Don’t hesitate to try the black poncho with ethnic patterns, over a little black dress, for a chic and trendy look.

Add a beanie or hat

Get inspired by the peoples of America, and reproduce their look, by matching your poncho with a beanie. Whether with a modern hat or with a woolen hat, you can play with accessories to bring more style to your outfit.

Adopt a boho chic style with a poncho

If you are a fan of the hippie style or the bohemian trend, then the poncho is the garment you need. It is a fashion accessory that has re-appeared in the West with the rise of the hippie movement. This style has been so successful that today it has become a fashion must-have.

For a boho chic look, the poncho can be worn with a long dress, playing on layers of colors and tones.

Adapt the poncho to your body type

If you are small, prefer the graphic-chic poncho, with a contrast of colors at the edges. If you are taller, you can play it elegant by wearing your bohemian-chic poncho. For women who have a few curves, it is better to adopt flexible materials such as mesh, for a cool and easy-going style.

Confucius or Kongfuzi

Confucius or Kongfuzi (known as “Master Kong”) is a Chinese philosopher of the 6th century BC and the founder of Confucianism.

This legendary historical figure from ancient China lived under the declining dynasty of the Zhous, whose legitimacy would have come from the gods through the “heavenly mandate”.

Concerned about moral values ​​as well as law and order in society, Confucius traveled throughout China and taught much of his life. After his death, his ideas were collected by his followers (also called “the 12 philosophers”), and profoundly influenced all Chinese civilization, but also Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia and Viet-Nam.

His reflections were compiled by his disciples in the Analects (“Conversations”) in the form of philosophical anecdotes forming a “manual of good leaders.”

Confucianism (or “scholarly school”) was established as a state doctrine by the Han Dynasty in the 2nd century BC and remained so until the founding of the Republic of China in 1911.

The key values ​​of his doctrine are: respect for the old and the traditions, loyalty, benevolence, modesty and humility.