Everything You Need to Know About Thai Massage

September 12, 2022

There's a strong chance you've already experienced the benefits of a Thai massage if you've ever been faced down on a massage table and realised that, sure, your masseuse's feet are on your back.

Thai massage is typically a full-body experience that gives energising and absolute relief from sore muscles. You might be tugged, pushed, posed, and moved around, but this is not the kind of relaxing, dream-inducing massage. So, what is Thai massage then?

What is Thai Massage?

Thai massage mixes assisted yoga and acupressure techniques. It is also known as Thai Yoga Massage or colloquially called "the lazy person's yoga." The therapist will use their hands and feet to knead and press muscles along the body's energy lines while incorporating yogic stretching techniques. Thai massage includes the acupressure techniques of stimulating the Sen, which balances the body's energy system.

By opening up the body, passive stretching can also assist in developing flexibility and releasing tension in the muscles and joints. Thai massages are usually more vigorous and intense than other massages, starting at the client's feet while lying face down. The therapist will frequently apply pressure to their hands and feet as well. Typically, the patient remains clothed throughout therapy, though they can occasionally use oils and lotions upon request.

An overview of Thai Massage's history

Thai massage is credited with being created more than 2500 years ago by the physician and doctor Jivaka Komarabhacca. They served as the personal physician of Magadha King Bimbisara, the ruler of India at the time. Dr Jivaka was known for his exceptional skills in traditional Indian medicine (such as Ayurveda), but he was also proficient in the discipline of meditation and Asana. He is mentioned by several names in the ancient Buddist texts, including Shivago Komarpaj, Dr Jivago, and Jivacca Komarapaj, to name a few. It is customary to pray to him for direction and inspiration before beginning a massage or at the end of the treatment because he is sometimes referred to as the "Father Doctor" or "Father of Medicine." Wai Khru is the name of this prayer, which is still regularly offered in Thailand today.

Buddha's physician and friend, Dr Jivaka, treated him and other monks in the monasteries for free. After the Thai Massage Revival Project in 1985, the massage method eventually reached the Thai people and the rest of the world. Thai yoga massage was an essential component of the Buddhist religion.

What advantages does Thai massage offer?

There are several advantages to receiving a Thai massage as using different pressures and techniques massages your muscles, releasing tension and endorphins and making you feel fantastic. The reasoning behind these advantages is also based on the philosophy of acupressure and Chinese medicine, which holds that every person's body contains meridian lines and that acupressure points are located along these meridian lines. It stimulates acupressure points, allowing for a healthier flow of energy. Chi or Qi is the vital energy that guides one’s physical and mental processes.

Thai massage has the following primary advantages:

• - Aided stretching can increase muscle range of motion and flexibility.
• - Aids circulation and boosts blood flow
• - Releases physical tension to lessen aches and pains
• - Releases bodily-held emotional tension, which can reduce stress and give relaxation

In addition to these advantages, just like with any massage, the stimulation of the nerves and skin cells can enhance the appearance and functionality of the muscles and promote general well-being.

What is the process of Thai massage?

According to Chinese medicine and acupressure philosophy, each body has meridian lines, and acupressure points are located along these meridian lines (also called Sen lines). It is believed that activating the acupressure points will promote a more balanced flow of energy throughout the body.

What negative impacts can Thai massage have?

Thai massage typically leaves you feeling incredibly peaceful, but it can occasionally have a strange side effect. Any extremely tight muscles could feel sore afterwards, and bruising is possible if your therapist goes at it. It is not likely, though.

If any aspect of your Thai massage seems excessive, voice your concerns. Communication is crucial in this situation; disclosing any lingering ailments, your therapist can accommodate those little aches and pains.

Thai massage on the go

Since the therapy is provided through the client's skin, minimum clothing and equipment are required, making qualified mobile Thai massage therapists a good option. Due to the lengthy treatment times compared to the number of patients that can be treated, it is not often performed at wellness events or corporate settings.

What to expect from a Thai Yoga Massage?

Like with all massage therapies, the therapist will have a significant impact on the method of treatment. There are two distinct Thai massage types: Southern and Northern. The Northern, taught in Chiang Mai, has a slower, more rhythmic approach, whilst the Southern is supposed to be more energizing and is conducted at the Wat Pho temple in Bangkok. Many Western spas have adopted the Northern method. You should discuss locations with restricted range of motion, injuries, or sensitivity with your therapist during your appointment. Usually, the patient receives treatment on a futon mattress or other types of foam cushioning placed on the floor.

Apart from traditional Thai massage, we also provide a variety of other fantastic mobile massage treatments that are ideal for business settings and parties.

These consist of:

• - chair massage on-site
• - reflexology
• - head massage
• - table massage
• - foot massage therapy
• - hot stone massage
• - oil massage therapy

Bottomline

Thai massage is an age-old practice with numerous advantages that contemporary science has proven to be true. It might lessen the intensity of your headaches, ease joint and lower back pain, improve your flexibility, ease your anxiety, and revitalise your body and mind.

So, if you’ve been asking, “what is Thai massage,” do note that it is not a restorative procedure. Your therapist will focus on the tension in your muscles and guide you through a gradual succession of yoga-like poses.

The safety of Thai massage may not be universal. Ask your doctor if this ancient kind of massage is safe for you if you have a pre-existing medical problem.