Cultural
Experiences
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Thai Cultural Dance
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Health Massage
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Also...keeping to the right on the escalator!
Diversity through
Thai Cultural Dance
The Thai cultural dance we experienced at the beginning of the trip was a great icebreaker to bond over with our classmates. The dance routines had similar moves including that of bending over the palms, concurrently stamping our feet and moving the hips. What stood out to me were the intricacies of the traditional costumes, from the clothing itself to the accessories. It astounds me that culture can be so incredibly rich in just a piece of clothing alone.
When we compare the traditional costumes across ASEAN cultures, a remarkable similarity emerges, showcasing a rich tapestry of shared heritage and aesthetics. For instance, Thailand's Chut Thai shares similarity to that of the Malay Songket and Cambodia's Sampot. This comes to show how culture flows through diasporas, influencing cultural diversity.
Health Massage - A Blend of Modern & Traditional Elements
Modern
Traditional
During my visit to Siriraj Medical School in Thailand, we delved into the world of health massage, uncovering the rich traditions and modern applications of Thai traditional medicine. Siriraj is one of the four esteemed faculties of medicine in Thailand, renowned for its comprehensive approach to healthcare education.
At Siriraj, the curriculum includes applied Thai traditional medicine, encompassing traditional pharmacy and massage. These programs combine ancient wisdom with modern medical science, ensuring that practitioners are well-versed in both traditional techniques and contemporary medical knowledge. For those keen to deepen their expertise, Siriraj offers postgraduate studies in Thai traditional medicine. The diagnostic process in Thai traditional medicine follows established regimens based on historical scriptures, yet it also integrates screenings for conditions using Western medical concepts. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive patient care.
MASSAGE FIT CHECK!
One of the highlights of this programme was learning about basic massage and the massage of signal points, also known as acupressure. This technique involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote healing. Meanwhile, in the realm of midwifery, once dominated by bidans (traditional masseuses), the practice has now transitioned to nurses and gynecologists.
Thai traditional medicine also extends to skincare, (WOW!!!) offering natural and effective solutions. Interestingly, Thai traditional massage, particularly for royalty, adheres to specific etiquette. Practitioners are prohibited from using elbows or knees, relying solely on palms, fingers, and thumbs to deliver polite and respectful massages. I find it intriguing that there is that perfect bridge between the blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. This portrays how Thailand preserves its rich heritage while embracing contemporary advancements in healthcare especially even when medical tourism is on the rise.