Thai Metta Bodywork™ (TMB) is a compassionate system of therapeutic bodywork inspired by traditional Thai Massage and the practice of metta, or loving-kindness. Rooted in mindful presence and skillful touch, this approach emphasizes compassionate intention, attentive awareness, and practical techniques that support relaxation, mobility, and overall well-being.
In Thai Metta Bodywork, metta is expressed through multidimensional acts of compassionate presence, therapeutic touch, and mindful intention. Practitioners cultivate an environment that supports relief from tension and discomfort while promoting balance within the body and nervous system.
2026 Training Dates
While the following training order is ideal, the training events for modules 1 - 6 can be taken in any order.
TMB Foundations Training | Modules 1 & 2 | June 27 - 28
TMB Foundations Training | Modules 3 & 4 | August 29 - 30
TMB Foundations Training | Modules 3 & 4 | September 26 - 27
TMB Table Adaptations | TBA
TMB OsteoDynamic Master Class | October 17 - 18
TMB incorporates a variety of traditional and contemporary techniques, including rhythmic compression, gentle rocking, assisted stretching, breath awareness, acupressure, reciprocal tension techniques, and meditative presence. These techniques work together to help relax tight muscles, improve posture and mobility, enhance circulation, and support a sense of physical and emotional balance.
Traditionally, Thai Metta Bodywork is practiced on a comfortable mat on the floor, allowing the practitioner to move fluidly around the client while applying stretches and compressions using hands, forearms, and body weight. A modified version of the work can also be adapted for use on a massage table, allowing practitioners to integrate elements of Thai bodywork into conventional massage sessions.
Training courses explore aspects of Thai healing traditions, the philosophy of metta meditation, and principles that support effective and sustainable body mechanics for practitioners. Elements of yoga and mindful movement are also incorporated to help practitioners move efficiently and safely while working with clients.
Each training includes live demonstrations, guided hands-on instruction, and ample supervised practice time. Instruction manuals are available for students who wish to continue studying and practicing the techniques beyond the training sessions.
Students may take the foundational modules in any order while gradually developing familiarity with the techniques and movement patterns.
Module 1 — Supine Position
Introduction to Thai Metta Bodywork techniques performed with the client lying on their back. Students learn rhythmic compression, gentle stretching, and foundational movement patterns.
Module 2 — Side-Lying Position
Techniques designed to address the hips, shoulders, and spine using side-lying positioning for enhanced accessibility and comfort.
Module 3 — Prone Position
Techniques for working with the back body, including compressions and stretches for the posterior chain.
Module 4 — Double Leg Stretches, Abdomen & Energy Work
Expanded techniques for the lower body and abdomen, incorporating breath awareness and energetic flow.
Module 5 — Therapeutic Techniques for Common Pain Patterns (Supine & Side-Lying)
Approaches for addressing common areas of tension and discomfort using techniques adapted for the supine and side-lying positions.
Module 6 — Therapeutic Techniques for Common Pain Patterns (Prone & Seated)
Techniques for working with the back, neck, and shoulders, including seated approaches that support spinal mobility.
• Live demonstrations
• Guided hands-on instruction
• Supervised practice time
• Training manual
While students are not required to participate in all three trainings, those who want to take advantage of the full scope of this dynamic bodywork modality have the option to participate in all three 2-day training intensives. While the trainings can be learned in any order, we suggested order as it is listed above.
To receive certification in Thai Metta Bodywork Foundations, students must complete:
Modules 1–6, which include three 16-hour training workshops
10 documented practice hours with friends or family
One 2.5-hour supervised practice session with an instructor
Final practical assessment with instructor
2-day Training Tuition (2 modules): $377
Full TMB Foundations Training Tuition (6 modules): $1,077
This course is open to anyone interested in bodywork, wellness, or healing arts. No prior experience is required.
This hands-on course explores how Thai Metta Bodywork techniques can be adapted for use on a massage table. Students learn how to incorporate compressions, assisted stretches, and movement-based techniques into a traditional massage session.
The course demonstrates a full-body Thai Metta Bodywork sequence adapted for table work and explores ways to integrate these techniques into modalities such as Swedish or deep tissue massage.
Instruction also includes principles of body mechanics, yoga-inspired movement, and practitioner positioning that allow the work to be performed safely and effectively.
• Live demonstrations
• Guided hands-on instruction
• Supervised practice time
• Training manual
Students participate in three 2-day training intensives that can be learned in any order (however, the suggested order is as listed above).
Total Tuition: $377
This course is open to anyone interested in bodywork, wellness, or healing arts. No prior experience is required.
The Thai Metta Bodywork Osteo-Dynamic Master Class expands upon the techniques introduced in the foundational modules and explores advanced principles that deepen the therapeutic application of the work. This training integrates elements of dynamic flow, joint mobilization, and osteopathic-inspired concepts that enhance mobility, adaptability, and resilience within the body.
Students are introduced to key anatomical and biomechanical principles that inform safe and effective joint work. Drawing inspiration from dynamic movement work and Osteothai principles, the training explores techniques designed to support healthy movement and recovery in the ankles, knees, hips, wrists, and shoulders.
• The relationship between Thai bodywork and osteopathic principles
• Reciprocal tension and slack within the body
• Homeostasis and the body’s natural capacity for self-regulation
• Presence, intention, and attention as tools for effective therapeutic work
• Joint mobilization techniques (GOT for the joints)
• Mobility and vitality within the musculoskeletal system
• Benefits and contraindications related to common joint conditions
• Developing integrated treatment routines
• Live demonstrations
• Guided hands-on instruction
• Supervised practice time
• Training manual
TMB Foundations Training
Total Tuition: $525
Participants receive a Certificate of Completion upon finishing this advanced training.
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