How is Thai Massage performed?

You basically lie on a mat placed on the floor, fully clothed (except of shoes and socks) – mostly you get a nice loose, comfortable pair of trousers and a shirt. The massage therapist uses not just her fingers and thumbs, but also her palms, elbows, forearms, knees and even her shins to press and stretch your body. It is in order to free the flow of vital energies in the body, so it can become healthy and free of pain again.

The process used is pressing – it stimulates the energy flow, releases blockages and stagnation in the body which result in pain. When all soft tissues have been adequately pressed, the next step follows – the stretching. It starts subtly and then progresses into large scale stretches.

Is it painful?

Applying pressure to tender muscle knots -particularly when it is done with thumb- can feel uncomfortable. However a qualified, licensed massage therapist should be able to adjust the massage pressure and movements by using your feedback so that you are not in pain.

So what are the potential health benefits of Thai Massage?

• Relieves deep muscle tension and increases flexibility
• Helps put the mind into full state of relaxation
• Aims in forcing the circulation of blood to new areas of your body. The better the circulation, the more oxygen your body can receive and use.
• Boosts energy
• Relieves tension headaches
• Reduces types of neck and back pain

Some additional tips:

• Don’t eat heavy meal before a massage appointment.
• If it’s your first time at the spa or clinic, arrive a good 10 minutes earlier to have enough time for completing the necessary forms and also, to change clothing.
• Inform your massage therapist about your health history because there are certain conditions when Thai Traditional Massage should not be performed.
• If you feel discomfort any time, let your massage therapist know.