Let´s continue creating our list of the things one ought to keep in mind when traveling to Asia for a massage course…If you missed my previous post, you can read it on our blog. I´d love to make a really comprehensive list so feel free to add tips and best practices that you come to think of!
MASSAGE COURSE IN ASIA: TIPS AND BEST PRACTICES
DON´Ts
- Never touch anyone with your feet. And if you want to show someone that you really respect him/her (for example your master), touch his/her feet with your hands.
- In some countries you should never touch the crown of the head of another person (not even kids). In India, Tibet or Thailand, the head is considered a sacred part of the body.
- Remember that in India your left hand is the impure hand and the right hand is the pure one, so never give anyone your left hand, because it is very possible that they will not shake it.
- If you have to sit in front of someone in your class or in a temple, do not ever do it with your legs forward with the sole of your feet facing the other person, or a religious icon, but always try to cross your legs.
- Do not touch, sit on, or walk over any religious objects, texts, or prayer flags.
DID YOU KNOW THAT…
- Asking the teacher too many questions is sometimes considered disrespectful; quite the opposite that in Western culture, where it is considered a sign of interest.
- There are some teachers in Asia that are very good in practice, because they got their knowledge from their parents, grandparents, and so on, but might not be able to give you a satisfying answer in certain theoretic concepts. This could be due to that their English is not good enough, because they are good in practice but not as good in explaining the theory, and other times just because they learn practice without theory.
- In India physical contact between men is very common, so you ought to be prepared for that if you make a new (male) friendin your school he might try to hold your hand after a few weeks. This gesture is a sign of friendliness, so you should feel honored.
- If a Tibetan stretches out their tongue to you, this is a way of saying hello.
Please keep in mind that each country, religion or area have their own traditions. I hope that you learned something from this, and I also hope that you add any other tips you come to think of…Let´s make the best student manual ever!
Wishing you a meaningful day,
Cesar
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