Thai Massage

If you like yoga, then you’ll probably love Thai massage. This style of treatment is the latest trend at many spas in North America, and it’s a lot like doing yoga without exerting any energy. As a more invigorating massage option, Thai massage is perfect for people who want a break from the ordinary. Read on to learn more about this popular treatment.

What is Thai massage?

Thai massage was developed in India more than 2500 years ago, but it’s just starting to make an impression in the West. The inventor of Thai massage is said to have been the medical attendant to Buddha; in any case, the treatment’s philosophy is based in ayurvedic medicine, which is also the basis for yoga. As some point in the distant past, the basics of the massage were taken to Thailand, where monks perfected the medical massage technique as part of natural medical practices. The treatment became a popular remedy in Thailand was eventually taken up all over the world. Thai massage isn’t like what you’d normally think of when you imagine a spa massage. In fact, in many ways it’s completely opposite to a traditional Swedish massage, which has become the norm in North America. For starters, Thai massage is performed on the floor, not on a table. It’s also done fully clothed, unlike many massages that require customers to be nude under sheets. But the biggest thing that sets Thai massage apart from other treatments is its movement component. Most massages expect patrons to remain still for the duration of the service; in Thai massage, on the other hand, you are forced to move. The treatment is based on combining movement with gentle pressure, and the therapist will place your body in different poses to increase energy flow. Freeing energy is the whole point of Thai massage. Your therapist will move your body into multiple positions that allow access to energy boundaries. Then, she’ll press her hands, arms, and feet into these energy areas to release built-up tension. Thai massage will leave you feeling invigorated, and it can increase your flexibility, clear your mind, and ease muscle and joint pain too.

What happens during Thai massage?

You’ll be asked to wear loose clothing on the day of your session. Some spas will provide you with an outfit to wear, but most don’t. Plan to wear something without buttons or zippers for comfort. If you’ve never had a Thai massage before, the first thing that will happen in your treatment will likely be a rundown of what to expect. Your therapist will ask you if you have any medical problems and what you hope to get out of the session. Then, she’ll have you lie on a padded mat on the floor. Most treatments start with you on your back; your therapist will move your arms and legs as she massages your body, warming up the muscles for the movement to come. A Thai massage will usually proceed with multiple poses over the course of an hour or an hour and a half. In each pose, the therapist will use the force of her hands, arms, fingers, feet and legs to release tension. You won’t have to do any work, but you’ll get all the benefits of an intense yoga class. After the treatment ends, your therapist will probably offer advice about how to keep your body’s energy flowing. She might mention any problem areas she found in the treatment too.

Who should get a Thai massage?

Thai massage is great for anyone looking for an alternative to a traditional, tranquil treatment. Although you will come out of the massage feeling relaxed, you’ll also be energized at the same time. It’s also a good option for people who want to work on realigning their entire bodies. One of the purposes of Thai massage is to connect mind, body and spirit, so it can be a nice treatment for anyone who wants to get a lot out of time at the spa. Some people concerned with nudity opt for a Thai massage because it can be performed with clothes on. One thing you should keep in mind, however, is that although the treatment is fully clothed, your therapist will be close to you the whole time. She’ll be manipulating your body into all kinds of positions, which can make the massage seem very intimate. Therefore, Thai massage may not be the best option for people who want to remain modest. It’s up to you; some people find Thai massage to be more uncomfortable than a Swedish treatment, while others find the nakedness associated with Swedish massages to be too much to handle, even when compared to an intimate Thai experience.

Where can I get a Thai massage?

Many large day spas, resort spas and hotel spas now offer Thai massage. It is a relatively new treatment in North America, so you should always check with a spa before assuming they offer the service.

Take-away tips:

Thai massage combines movement with mechanical pressure to provide an invigorating, total-body experience. Although it is performed with clothes on, Thai massage may not be the best option for people looking for alternatives to nude treatments. The different movement of the service will require your therapist to get up close and personal.