Thai Massages: Are They Supposed to Hurt?
Thai Massages: Are They Supposed to Hurt?
To answer the question of whether Thai massages are supposed to hurt or not, it’s essential to know what it is and understand the technique.
Many first-time clients might think that a Thai massage will hurt and may be adverse to receiving one. However, according to those who have actually experienced getting one, they will tell you that although it may sometimes be a bit uncomfortable, the relief that they experience afterward is well worth it.
Some of us have come to delight in the way it feels all the way through because of our increasing sense about how good this kind of therapy is for you.
Depending on your temperament, it is normal to feel some form of discomfort or pain during the session. However, after the session, you will indeed feel more relaxed and appreciate the relief that Thai massage can bring.
Whenever you are experiencing your first session, you should also know that the anticipation and unfamiliarity may contribute to some of those feelings and subsequent sessions will likely be easier and more enjoyable for you.
What is Thai Massage?
To answer the question of whether Thai massages are supposed to hurt or not, it’s essential to know what it is and understand the technique.
Unlike Western massage techniques, traditional Thai massage doesn’t involve passively lying on a massage table while the therapist applies oil to your body and stimulates pressure points and muscles. In a Thai massage, you lie fully clothed on a mat on the floor while the therapist applies compressions along the lines in which your life forces flow, stretching, pulling, rocking, and many other techniques.
Thai massage originated over 2,500 years ago and is a form of Buddhist medicine.
Thai massage originated over 2,500 years ago and is a form of Buddhist medicine.
It comes from the intention to reduce suffering in the world and is the ACT of Loving Kindness. This form of therapy is unique to Thailand and the people who have inhabited this area longer than just about anywhere in the world. Influenced by Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Thai massage is considered medical massage in addition to its status as a healing art. Thai Massage can relieve tension in your body, decrease your anxiety, remove energetic blockage, improve your flexibility and circulation, as well as promote relaxation, which enhances our body’s natural ability to recover and heal.
Practitioners use their hands, feet, knees, and many other parts of the body to apply pressure to specific areas of your body to release the tension in tight muscles and enhance blood circulation. When your muscle tissue is tense and contracted, blood that transports oxygen and nutrients gets restricted, and you feel pain. This is why Thai massages are sometimes painful because therapists need to apply enough pressure to free the tightness in these muscles to provide relief.
Softer Thai Massage Techniques may be just what you need.
While traditional Thai massage may involve deep pressure and stretches, which are painful for some, there are also ways to practice Thai massages in a comfortable and beautifully flowing manner. If what you need is a gentle touch, be sure to talk with your therapist about this before the session.
Thai massage practitioners have perfected their own techniques and styles that suit the preferences of different kinds of people and contribute to the evolution of Thai massage. The softer methods typically involve gentler rocking motions in addition to the application of the principles of yoga.
If you have ever practiced yoga, you
If you have ever practiced yoga, you know that the focus is on breathing techniques, higher awareness, and smooth, flowing motions.
Using these principles and softer yet effective movements, this form of Thai massage is also powerful enough to provide relief and uplift your spirit. While traditional Thai massage may involve deep pressure and stretches, which are painful for some, there are also ways to practice Thai massages in a comfortable and beautifully flowing manner. If what you need is a gentle touch, be sure to talk with your therapist about this before the session.
Thai massage practitioners have perfected their own techniques and styles that suit the preferences of different kinds of people and contribute to the evolution of Thai massage. The softer methods typically involve gentler rocking motions in addition to the application of the principles of yoga.
Know Your Body’s Limits
People have varying levels of pain tolerance and preferences. There is no one else in the world who knows your body’s limitations better than you.
So when you get a Thai massage, it is important to clearly specify what you prefer– whether it’s a soft, medium, or deep massage and the practitioner will adjust the technique based on your liking.
While it’s normal for you to doubt whether a Thai massage session causes you more harm than good if it is too painful for you, it’s also important to trust the process and, more importantly, the massage therapist. While getting a Thai massage, you should always tell the practitioner at any point if you want it to be gentler or if you think it should be deeper. The best amount of pressure or stretch is: right before too much.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your first time or your tenth time getting a Thai massage, one of the most important things to keep in check is your body’s limitations for you to have a beneficial experience.
You may have heard the proverb, “Different strokes for different folks.” Well, this is entirely true when it comes to Thai massage. Thai massage practitioners have different techniques and approaches– it is up to you to communicate what works best for you.
So if you are looking for a reliable Thai massage therapist who is experienced in different techniques and can provide you with the best massage session that suits your needs and personal preferences, you want to consider ThaiMassage-NYC.
From Traditional Thai Massage to Tok Sen, Luk Pra Kob, cupping, four-hands, and Couples Thai Massage, we have got you covered! Get in touch with us today, and let us help you explore your options!
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