What Is Thai Massage?

Thailand is known all over the world for its famous Thai massage and spa treatments. But what can you expect from it and what are the health benefits of Thai massage? Here is everything you need to know at a glance.

First, it’s important to mention that massage is an ancient therapy, dating back around 2,500 years. It is said it was created by Shivago Komarpai, the personal physician of the Buddha, in India. With the spreading of Buddhism to Thailand, the massage technique came with it and Thai massage as we know it until today was born. 

Compared to Western style massages, it’s clear to see that it is like a combination between yoga and massage, with a lot of stretching and slow, rhythmic compression along the body’s ten energy lines.

What To Expect From Thai Massage

If you have never had a Thai massage before, your first visit at a spa can be quite overwhelming. Do you have to take off your clothes? And what to do if it is too intense?

In general, you are fully dressed during a Thai massage. After entering a spa and choosing your treatment, you will be handed a shirt and loose fitting pants. You don’t have to change into them, however it is highly recommended, as they are very comfortable and perfect for all the stretching that is about to happen.

Since it is performed fully dressed, you might have already guessed it: Unlike for example Swedish massage, oil isn’t used for a Thai massage. Typically, your muscles also aren’t kneaded. Instead, the masseuse uses their thumbs, elbows, knees and feet to stretch and pull different body parts.

Since the therapists need full flexibility performing all the stretches on your body, Thai massage is usually performed on a floor mat instead of a massage table. It is also possible that they walk on you, so don’t be surprised if that happens.

Thai massage can be a quite painful experience. However, a skilled masseuse will usually ask you in the beginning, how intense you would like it to be and adjust it to your needs and physical constitution. If it is still too painful and unpleasant for you, you should always let them know

Good For You: The Benefits Of Thai Massage

Getting a Thai massage is not only relaxing but also highly beneficial for your overall health: It relieves tension in your joints and muscles, improves circulation and is a great stress relief. After a long day of travel or a challenging workout it can help you to stretch out your whole body. 

If you suffer from back pain, there is even scientific proof that you can benefit from it: Sometimes Thai massage can work as an alternative health care treatment. You should always check with your doctor though before you schedule your first session.

There are also reports of people who feel energized and rejuvenated after getting a massage. Thai massage uses a lot of yoga-like movements, working the ten energy lines of your body. So it is nor surprising that people experience a little energy boost after an appointment.

It might be more energetic than other forms of massage, but it is still highly relaxing and a great stress relief. If you suffer from anxiety, Thai massage can help you to feel more calm. 

Safety first: Risks Of Thai Massage

Even though Thai massage offers you a lot of health benefits, there are some risks and it is not recommendable for everyone. Since it has profound effects on your circulatory system, you should check with your doctor if you are fit enough. This is especially the case if you have

• high blood pressure
• heart disease or coronary artery disease
• diabetes
• osteoporosis and other conditions that affect your spine
• recent surgery or open wounds
• Cancer

If you are pregnant Thai massage is not recommended at all. This also goes if you have one of the following conditions:

• burns
• deep veins thrombosis
• bleeding disorders
• thrombocytopenia

How Often Should You Get A Thai Massage?

Maybe you wonder how often you can get a Thai massage and what experts recommend. In general, there are no guidelines and you should simply listen to your body. If you choose to get Thai massage because of chronic pain or discomfort in an area of your body, you should definitely ask your doctor for recommendations. 

If you suffer from back pain and your doctor recommends Thai massage to solve this issue, you should work with an experienced massage therapist to schedule regular sessions. They can focus on your trigger points by working on a specific area of your body, e.g. your lower back.

No wonder Thai massage is so famous all around the world. Do you want to try it yourself and receive it in the comfort of your own home, office or condominium? RLAX delivers the perfect massage brought to your door. All RLAX therapists are rigorously trained and fully qualified. Treat yourself and book your relaxing massage now.