If you have been looking for a change from your traditional massage, or you are particularly sore or stiff due to arthritis or exercise, Thai massage may be just what you have been looking for. Unlike most massage types that require you to disrobe, utilize massage oils and climb under a sheet on a massage table, Thai massages are performed with clothes on, usually on the floor or on a padded mat.
Instead of the kneading and gliding motions characteristic of more famous forms of massage, Thai massage employs pulling, rocking and stretching techniques to relieve tensions and enhance the range of motion and flexibility. It is sometimes called the “lazy person’s yoga.”
The therapist uses her or his hands, legs, feet, and knees to move you into a series of poses that are reminiscent of yoga stretches and also apply joint mobilization, acupressure, and deep muscle compression. Thai massage also uses energy work which according to the ancient Asian culture, treats the energetic field within your body. It correct deficiencies, imbalance and blockages in the flow of this energy, which is believed that it will improve the client’s health.
Can Thai Massage be Painful?
Applying pressure to the muscle fiber adhesions may hurt at first, but there is a big difference between pain and that type of discomfort due to inappropriate or excessive pressure and stretching.
While it may be hard to avoid some discomfort when targeting certain muscle knots, licensed and qualifies massage therapists should be able to adjust their pressure and movement so that you are not in pain or serious discomfort.
If you are interested in getting a Thai massage, check out Arisathai.com.
Benefits of Thai Massages
Massage of all types is usually used to relieve stress or protect against stress-related health problems. It is also said to improve your flexibility, range of motion and even boost your daily energy. Thai massage, in particular, is said to relieve a lot of different health issues. Specifically, it could:
- Relieve headaches from tensions
- Reduce different types of back pain such as chronic and subacute nonspecific back pain
- Relieve muscle spasticity and pain as well as joint pain and stiffness.
- Increase range of motion and flexibility
- Stimulate Lymphatic drainage and circulation.
- Calm the nervous system
- Boost energy
Things to know before your first Thai Massage
Usually, you would be asked to bring with yourself or wear some comfortable and loose clothing to the massage. A typical Thai massage is usually somewhere between 45 minutes to two hours long. Here are some additional tips:
- Do not eat a heavy meal before a massage
- If it is your first time at a spa or clinic, arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes earlier so you can complete any of the necessary forms and change. Otherwise, arrive at least a few minutes early so you can have some time to change before you start your massage.
- Be sure that your Thai massage therapist has your complete medical history since some people with certain conditions should not be having Thai massages.
- If you feel any pain or discomfort at any time, make sure you let your massage therapist know.
Nina Smith 
Kim Marks