Thai Massage Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage

Date of Recognition

On December 12, 2019, Traditional Thai Massage (Nuad Thai) was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the Intergovernmental Committee meeting held in Bogotá, Colombia.

What is Intangible Cultural Heritage?

Intangible Cultural Heritage refers to practices, knowledge, and skills passed down from generation to generation within communities. It includes:

• Performing arts

• Rituals and traditions

• Knowledge of nature and the universe

• Traditional craftsmanship

• Community-based health practices

Why Was Thai Massage Recognized?

1. An Ancient Thai Wisdom

   • Rooted in traditional Thai medicine

   • Combines acupressure, stretching, and meditation for holistic healing

2. Passed Down Through Generations

   • Preserved through family traditions, apprenticeship, and formal training

   • Often taught by respected masters or "Ajarns"

3. Deeply Integrated in Thai Society

   • Used for healing, relaxation, and maintaining health

   • Found in local communities, temples, and health centers

4. More Than Just a Massage

   • Emphasizes values such as compassion, respect for teachers (paying homage to the "spirit of the masters"), and mindfulness