A fascinating dive into the little-known spiritual dimensions of the popular martial art of Muay Thai, as well as its rich history, traditions, and esoteric practices.

Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is considered by many to be the most effective martial art, and its popularity has only been heightened by its dominance in the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) arena. But one little-known aspect of this potent self-defense system is its deep spiritual roots and meditative practices.

In The Essence of Muay Thai, Nuakai Aru, a Muay Thai master and longtime practitioner of various other martial arts, offers a fascinating historical and philosophical view of Muay Thai—along with his personal insights and experiences on the path.

Muay Thai—originally known in its purest fighting form as Muay Boran—was developed as a military fighting system during the 13th century to protect the Sukhothai Kingdom, the first independent—and Buddhist—Thai kingdom. Buddhism infused every aspect of life and society—from governance, to art and architecture, to military strategy—and the view of the Noble Warrior was central in Muay Thai and Muay Boran. The Muay Thai warriors were tasked with protecting the kingdom and its rulers using skillful, tactical, and enlightened action.

Aru is a compelling guide into the enigmatic world of Thai martial arts—its history, legend, lore, esoteric practices, and spiritual aspects—and he shares his own fascinating personal story of physical and emotional healing through Muay Thai.