What is the Origin of Thai Massage?
The origins of this practice date to the early movement of Buddhism in Asia some 2500 years ago. Traditional Thai Massage is an ancient art with roots in Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine. It is thought to have originated from a medical practitioner, Dr. Jivaka, who traveled with the Buddha to India. The techniques then found their way to Thailand where they have been practiced for over 2,500 years.
Traditional Thai Massage, known as Nuad Boran, is rooted in the Buddist philosophy of Metta, the art of giving with loving touch and kindness.
Here is a great link to the Thai Healing Alliance website and description of the "Origin and Evolution of Traditional Thai Massage."