What is Different About a Thai Massage?

Getting a massage after a long, tiring day is one of the best ways to relax.

It can also improve your mobility, provide relief from a wide array of adverse symptoms, and enhance your athletic performance. The best reason to get a Thai massage is that it feels good and when you feel good the body will be able to do more of what it does best, repair itself.

While all massages are generally intended to improve your well-being, different techniques and approaches have been developed. One of the massage therapies that is gaining in popularity in many clinics and spas is Thai massage.

If you’re wondering if this massage technique is suitable for your needs or you’re simply curious about what makes it different from other types of massage, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will discuss the differences between Thai massage compared to a typical table massage and help you understand it better.

What Can You Expect During a Thai Massage Session?

Thai Massage also called the “lazy man’s yoga”, involves assisted stretching and poses similar to yoga to bring relaxation and a soothing effect on your joints and muscles. 

This type of massage is considered an art of healing that originated in Thailand. Unlike classic Western massages, Thai massage isn’t just about lying passively on a massage table. It involves more movement and participation on your part to achieve joint and muscle pain relief. 

The Thai massage practitioner will be helping you perform a series of stretches, twists, and yogic poses after loosening you up with an array of techniques arranged along the energy pathways of your body (referred to as Sen in Thai). Acupressure and compression techniques will mostly be what is performed to ease the blockages in the Sen. The therapist will be using their hands, knees, legs feet, and shoulders to stimulate certain pressure points.

Some of the benefits of Thai massage for your mind and body include:

• Tension relief
• Eliminates or reduces headaches
• Back pain relief
• Eases muscle and joint pains or stiffness
• Increases flexibility, mobility, and range of motion
• Stimulates blood circulation and your lymphatic drainage system
• Energizes
• Calms the nervous system
• Makes you happy

What Makes Thai Massage Different?

Thai massage’s origins can be traced back to Thailand over 2,500 years ago. It is based on the concept that blockages along energy lines prevent the smooth flow of energy which leads to pain and discomfort. Through Thai massage, these blockages can be removed and optimal energy flow can be restored to bring you closer to perfect health.

Below are some of the key differences between Thai massage from other massage therapies:

You will remain fully clothed.

Unlike classic Western massages, Thai massage is done while you’re fully clothed. Sessions involve moving your body into different positions and making various stretching exercises while being guided by the Thai massage practitioner so it is recommended to wear loose comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely.

The session is performed on the floor with a padded mat and not a massage table.

Swedish massage and other massage techniques are done while you lie on a massage table fully or partially naked. However, with Thai massage, you will lie down on the floor and remain fully clothed throughout the duration of the treatment. 

Oil or lotion involved may not even be needed.

Traditional Thai massage doesn’t really need oil or lotion on your skin for lubrication. The Thai massage practitioner will simply rely on your clothing to protect the skin surface from chaffing and to prevent the body hairs from being pulled.

It involves yoga-like poses and the application of direct pressure.

In other massage modalities, you will likely only be face up or face down and will just lie down passively on the massage table throughout the entire session. In Thai massage, the practitioner will manipulate and guide you in making various yoga poses and stretches to reveal the tightness in your body and improve energy flow.

Also, the therapist will apply direct, rhythmic movements and hand techniques on specific pressure points to bring comfort.

Does Thai Massage Hurt?

Contrary to the common belief that Thai massage is too painful, the intensity of the massage will actually be adjusted according to your preferences. Just make sure to communicate with your Thai massage therapists so they can gauge the intensity exactly how you like it.

In fact, even if you have some physical limitations, are pregnant, or have some medical issues, your Thai massage session can be tailored according to your situation and needs. So if you’re not that flexible, the Thai massage therapist will only make you perform the stretches as far as your body will allow.

In other words, Thai massage is great for everyone!

Final Thoughts

Thai Massage involves a holistic approach and can help address problems in your physical and mental health naturally without any medications or surgery. 

By understanding what it’s like to get a Thai massage, you will be able to prepare yourself and fully enjoy the experience. If you’re looking for the best Thai massage therapist in New York, check out Thai Massage New York City. They offer various Thai massage techniques such as Traditional Thai massage, Four Hands, Herbal Compress, and Couples Thai. You may also book a home visit if you’re too busy.
Ready to explore your options and enjoy the health benefits of Thai massage? Get in touch with us today!