By Ariela Grodner, LMT The Florida School of Massage has become the local home base for the style of Thai known as Bodhi Sanga. Roughly translated, Bodhi Sanga in Hindi refers to a community that supports each other in the development of each other’s enlightenment. Being both an observer and a participating member of a hard working committed group of individuals sharing their knowledge and growth in a mutually supportive atmosphere, I can testify to the leaps and bounds in growth and evolution that such a community can help bring about. In the nine years that have passed since FSM began hosting Thai Massage classes, our community has grown in size and has deepened its knowledge of discipline. Self-motivated students have formed weekly practice groups in order to continuously refine their work, and are also taking the time and exerting the diligence necessary to keep their bodies and minds in a balanced state. Sangha (community) enables practitioners with the encouragement and support that only a group of fellow practitioners can provide. One of the contributing factors to this approach has been our policy of allowing students to re-take a class, for free, as often as they like. In this way students can continue to strengthen their form while assisting the new students with quality feedback and advanced technique. Returning students commonly bring offerings of music, songs and stories that lend courage and inspiration to newer students who might be struggling with the material or finding themselves in need of encouragement. There is no doubt that the community’s growth has made my job as an instructor much easier and my joy in the process exponentially greater than it would be otherwise. Sometimes I feel as if a beautiful flower is blossoming before my eyes and I am privileged with sitting in the center of it all. My gratitude at being a part of this process is boundless and growing. Thank you all to my fellow practitioners of the healing arts for contributing to our healing community and witnessing each other’s growth on our paths. An advanced training in Bodhi Sanga Thai Massage will begin its new cycle, starting in November at the Florida School of Massage. This includes 90 hours of training over the course of five months, weekly practice groups, and the option to have a Teacher/Student exchange. Students who participate in this immersion in ancient bodywork will also gain knowledge in the study and practice of a yogic lifestyle. Simple Yoga Asana (stretching) instruction, breathing exercises and meditation techniques are part of the requisite we will undertake to enable the giving of full reverence to the tradition. The intention in the form is to first learn to heal oneself so we can serve others properly. Become part of this ancient lineage and observe the transformational process one undertakes when committing to a form that is 2500 years old, and has its roots in an ancient medical system. We have cultivated an amazing community of loving friends that facilitates the opportunity to immerse ourselves in each moment, resulting in the unfolding of our potential in the process of becoming our highest self. For more details on cost and course descriptions go to the FSM website, contact Sarah at 352-378-7891 or contact Ariela Grodner at arielagrodner@yahoo.com.
