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!

Are you suffering from lower back pain?

Does it affect your day-to-day routine and prevent you from performing at your best? You are not alone!

According to the University of Maryland, about 60% to 80% of the entire U.S. population experiences lower back pain. One of the main reasons more than half of the country suffers from lower back pain is due to prolonged use of technology with improper posture. Because our bodies are not designed to accommodate these devices and we tend to contort ourselves while using them for many hours a day, our bodies experience adverse symptoms such as lower back pain.

There are many ways to treat lower back pain, and one of these is through Thai massage. An experienced Thai massage practitioner knows how to loosen the tight muscles and joints in any target area, providing comfort and relief.

In this article, we will take a deeper look at how Thai massage can help with your lower back pain.

Thai Massage as Lower Back Pain Treatment

Traditional Thai massage usually involves a full body massage and treatment techniques that focus on stretching the muscle and joint tissues to provide relief from body pains, including lower back pain.

Lower back pain problems that are not due to structural issues or illnesses are usually caused by a combination of weak back and abdominal muscles and by shortened or contracted leg muscles and abdominal area. The common reason behind these problems is a sedentary lifestyle that is characterized by prolonged sitting and lack of exercise.

Thai massage therapists will combine different poses and stretching exercises along with joint mobilization strategies targeting your lower back. These include:

• Prayer pose- The prayer pose involves sitting on the floor in a position similar to a child’s pose done in yoga. While your legs are crossed, lean forward with your arms outstretched and let the Thai massage therapist guide you as you stretch forward.
• Knee to elbow- The knee to elbow pose can be done by lying on your back with your knee bent as the Thai massage therapist supports your leg. While keeping your leg bent at an angle, the practitioner will press down on your hamstring to stretch it out. Tight muscles in your hamstring restrict your mobility in your pelvic area and may cause lower back pain. 
• Angel twist pose- Another pose that can loosen your back is the angel twist which is performed by lying on your back as the Thai massage practitioner bends your leg at a 90-degree angle over your body. This should give you a soothing stretch and ease your symptoms.

Other approaches that a Thai massage expert may take to alleviate your lower back pains include:

• Relaxation and stretching of relevant muscles including the hamstring, gluteus, quadriceps, inner thigh adductors, abductors, piriformis, latissimus dorsi, quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, and abdominal muscles.
• Improving the mobility of the hip joint, sacroiliac joint, and the pelvic area
• Abdominal massage to clear up restrictions and ease tightness
• Acupressure to remove blockages in energy lines

Prevent Lower Back Pains

You’ve probably already heard the phrase “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”. You might be able to resolve your pain in one session, especially of you book a longer appointment. Sometimes people experience so much relief they come back the next day just because it felt so good. Even the more severe and set-in cases can be resolved in two or three sessions. Consider continuing on with a Thai Massage package. By receiving Thai massage on a regular basis you can stay ahead of the pain and keep it from developing.

One of the most important aspects of preventing back pain is awareness.

You have to be mindful of your posture, especially while using the computer, your smartphone, or other gadgets. By maintaining proper posture, your muscles will be less strained and you will be less likely to experience lower back pain.

Other preventative measures include making healthier lifestyle choices, doing regular exercises, maintaining your weight, and learning the proper way to lift and carry heavy objects. By strengthening your lower back and abdominal muscles properly, you will be able to prevent lower back pains.

Simple changes in your everyday routines can also help you avoid lower back pain such as:

• placing a small, firm cushion on your lower back when sitting for extended periods of time
• using a pillow that can support your lower neck while sleeping
• using an ergonomic chair with postural support
• walking on flexible rubber mats at work
• wearing shoes with soft soles for comfort and support

There are many other ways to prevent lower back pain. You simply have to be aware of what causes it and try to improve your habits. You can learn a lot about yourself and your specific condition by receiving a good Thai massage.  You may also consult with your physician or your trusted Thai massage practitioners for some tips to prevent your back problem from worsening.

Final Thoughts

If you’re suffering from lower back pains, Thai massage is a wonderful solution for helping you feel better. For best long-term results, it is recommended to book regular Thai massage sessions and maintain proper posture. 

Not sure where to get a good Thai massage? Thai Massage NYC is the best Thai massage therapist in New York that can deliver a wide range of techniques that target the lower back and other body parts. 
Get in touch with us today so we can help you explore the most suitable options for your symptoms. You may either visit us in the studio or book a house call with us to enjoy a relaxing Thai massage session from the comfort of your own home.

The physical and mental health benefits of Thai massage are universally recognized and people from all parts of the world have been reaping the benefits of a good Thai massage session for many years. 

Thai massage is an ancient healing practice that involves more active participation on the receiver’s part compared to classic Western massage techniques.  Integrating the yogic principles, poses, and stretching elements, Thai massage is like having yoga done for you. With the care and guidance of your therapist, every limb will be moved passively through all of the advantageous yoga-like positions.

Your practitioner will also use gentle or firm pressures and stretches for deep muscle compression and joint mobilization. So if you’re wondering if this type of massage can improve flexibility, the short answer is YES.

In this article, we will not only share how Thai massage can make you more flexible but also cover other health benefits backed by science.

Thai Massage for Better Flexibility

Do you want to improve your range of motion and flexibility? Thai massage can help you move more easily and even improve your athletic performance.

In a 2015 study, 34 soccer players participated in an experiment to identify the effects of Thai massage on athletic performance. It was found that after receiving a Thai massage three times within a 10-day period, the participants showed notable improvement in their ability to perform sit-and-reach exercises.

According to the researchers, the increase in flexibility is because Thai massage improves blood flow and oxygen supply to muscles. This is also why it is effective for pain relief and decreasing muscle adhesions. 

Additionally, it was found that the Thai massage sessions improved the soccer players’ speed and agility.

Thai Massage for Back Pain Relief

Aside from improving flexibility, Thai massage may also be an effective, non-pharmaceutical way of easing back pain.

Research has been conducted in Thailand to study the impacts of Thai massage by conducting an experiment on a group of 120 people experiencing nonspecific low back pain. Half the participants received Thai massage, while the other half were treated with other conservative management techniques, including joint mobilization, the use of herbal heat applications, and manual stretching exercises on target areas. 

These two groups received treatment twice a week for 4 weeks, and both experienced significant relief from their back pain. Other studies found that Thai massage eases back pain associated with trigger points or tight muscles in the upper back.

Thai Massage for Joint Stiffness

If you are experiencing joint stiffness and pain whenever you move, Thai massage can be a solution.

A study involving a program consisting of Thai massage has been conducted to study the effects on those experiencing knee arthritis. After the 2-month program, it was found that the participants experienced reduced pain and managed to walk with greater ease. Another study involving 60 participants with osteoarthritis of the knee also found that getting Thai massage for 3 weeks delivered the same pain relief as taking Ibuprofen for 3 weeks. The less meds, the better, right?

Thai Massage to Reenergize

Thai massage’s origins are closely associated with yoga, and the practice incorporates yoga-like principles, poses, and stretches. Just like after doing yoga, people who get Thai massage also feel relaxed and rejuvenated. 

A study was conducted to look into the effects of Thai massage and Swedish massage on participants who experience fatigue. After their massage session, the participants were interviewed, and it was found that they felt mentally and physically energized.

Thai Massage for Easing Anxiety

Aside from physical pain relief, another thing that makes Thai massage appealing is that it can also bring a sense of calm and relaxation.

While Thai massage involves more active participation on the part of the receiver compared to other massage techniques, it has been found to reduce anxiety and induce a feeling of well-being.

According to studies, people who get Thai massage score lower on measures of psychological stress. The brain scans of participants who received Thai massage treatments showed greater relaxation and reduced anxiety compared to those who received physical therapy treatments for the same conditions.

Best Thai Massage Practitioner in New York City

In order to enjoy the full benefits of Thai massage, you should get it from a seasoned Thai massage practitioner. Thai Massage NYC is one of the most reputable Thai massage practitioners in NYC and offers a wide range of services, including traditional Thai massage, Couples Thai, Four Hands, and Herbal Compress.

Contact us today to learn more about these techniques and how we can help ease your symptoms. You may also visit us or book a house call with us to enjoy a relaxing Thai massage session in the comfort of your own home.

I know what you’re thinking– getting a Thai massage is nowhere close to being as effective in shedding the calories as doing some exercise. People love Thai massage– because they feel amazing after each session, and the benefits last for many days or even weeks. However, aside from bringing pain relief and relaxation, another good thing about Thai massage is that it actually can help you burn calories.

Thai massage does not usually elevate your heart rate as exercise does, but it might make you sweat. While there are other notable differences in each person’s experience, a 90-minute Thai massage can indeed burn 345 calories or more. It is probably more than you thought, as this is equivalent to 90 minutes of lightweight training.

This article will discuss Thai massage and the scientific explanation of how it can burn calories. It will also share some things about how getting a massage is similar to exercising.

What is Thai massage?

For those unfamiliar with Thai massage, this type of massage is an assisted yoga session involving a Thai massage practitioner manipulating parts of your body and applying pressure on specific points to restore proper flow for all of your organs, glands, and systems, bring relaxation, provide pain relief, elevate your mood and promote healing.

Unlike classic Western massages, which happen on a massage table, Thai massage is performed on a large, cozy floor mat while you’re fully clothed. Your body must be able to move around comfortably, so I recommend that you bring some loose-fitting or flexible cotton pants and a t-shirt when getting a Thai massage. 

Each Thai massage session usually lasts for about one to two hours. The Thai massage practitioner will assist you in doing the stretches and poses while you remain mindful of your breathing. Click here if the negative notion has misinformed you that Thai massage hurts. Reliable Thai massage practitioners can expertly tailor the session to your condition and meet your needs whether you like deep work or if you just want to relax and rest easy. Unlike typical Western massages such as Swedish massage, where you lie in one position, the various yoga-like positions and manipulations in Thai massage can improve your mobility, increase circulation and help with lymphatic drainage.

Because a Thai massage session involves moving around more than you would with typical massage techniques, you will also shed more calories. But don’t be mistaken – even if you have active participation in the session, Thai massage is quite relaxing and calming as it brings your mind and body into a tranquil state.

How Thai Massage Burns Calories

The body requires energy to function correctly. When you do any activity, you burn calories. In fact, even sleeping burns calories. However, the more effort you make when doing an activity, the more calories are burned. Because Thai massage involves more movement on your part and not just lying passively, you burn more calories during a Thai massage session. 

Similarities Between Exercise and Getting a Thai Massage

Exercise and Thai massage have more similarities than you might think. Some of these include:

• Working out once or twice a month will not meet your fitness goals. Thai massage works the same way– you won’t enjoy the full benefits of pain relief, relaxation, and burning calories if you only visit the Thai massage practitioner when things go wrong. In other words, you will experience the best long-term results when you consistently get Thai massages regularly.
• Exercise and massage can boost your metabolism. However, it is essential to note that getting Thai massages frequently is not a replacement for exercise when it comes to weight loss.

It is important to note that other factors also affect the number of calories burned while doing an activity, including your age, body composition, overall health, duration, and activity intensity.

Get a Relaxing Thai Massage

If you want to relax and ease any aches and pains that you may be experiencing while burning some calories, you should get a Thai massage.

Thai Massage NYC is the best Thai massage that you can find in New York City. We offer a wide range of techniques, including Traditional Thai Massage, Four Hands, and Couples Thai. You may also book a house call to get a soothing Thai massage session in the comfort of your own home.

If you’re not sure which service is best for you, click here or give us a call today so we can help you explore your options!

Thai massage sometimes gets a bad reputation because some who have experienced getting one say that they feel sore afterward, although the overall treatment felt beneficial. We understand why this could be an issue for some– because they are getting a massage to float in a euphoric state of relaxation and enjoy relief from muscle tension, pains, or discomfort.

In this article, we will investigate if Thai massage should make you feel sore and dive deeper into Thai massage techniques to gain an insight as to why they sometimes make people feel sore after the session.

Soreness After a Thai Massage

If you’re thinking of trying out Thai massage and are wondering if it is normal to feel sore after the session, the short answer is it depends on the type of treatment that you’re getting. At ThaiMassage-NYC, the Thai massage practitioners take a personalized approach to cater to the individual needs of each client.

This means the experience of an elderly person will be different from a strong and active athlete, for instance. We take the time to get to know your specific goals and recommend the best type of Thai massage treatment.

When the goal of getting a Thai massage is to elevate your mood and boost your overall sense of well-being, there shouldn’t be any soreness afterward as a result. So a fragile elderly person will be provided with a relaxing massage that would relieve them from the body and joint pains brought about by their old age. 

On the other hand, a strong athlete with adhesions or chronic stagnancy bound up inside of them will be given a vigorous treatment that might leave them feeling sore in specific target areas. However, it is important to note that the soreness should only last for 24 hours or less. 

Understanding Thai Massage Techniques

In order to comprehend why it is normal to feel sore after getting a Thai massage, it is important to understand Thai massage techniques.

Generally, Thai massage practitioners use their hands, feet, and other parts of their body to apply pressure to your body. The main goal here is to help you release the tension in contracted muscle tissues, which lead to blockages in your circulation.

By applying firm pressure to these tight muscles, the blood will be able to flow more freely and transport nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. Stagnancy will also be alleviated and said increases in circulation will also carry these properties away to the kidneys and liver where they can be eliminated from your body forever. When you have contracted muscles, the nutrients that can address your pain will be blocked.

Your Thai massage practitioner will use compressions, stretching, and other methods to reduce the tone of these tight muscles. And because of these interventions, you will sometimes experience soreness after.

Know Your Limits and Communicate with Your Practitioner

Nobody else knows your body’s limitations better than yourself. So the key to getting a beneficial Thai massage experience is to know your limits and communicate this to your Thai massage practitioner.

Instead of just enduring the pain and then not going back for another session, it would be much better if you can tell your Thai massage therapist what you’re aiming for and your personal preferences.

During the session, if the Thai massage techniques being implemented are too much for you, don’t hesitate to tell the practitioner right away. The best amount of pressure or stretch is “right before too much”.

Traditional Thai massage may involve deep pressure and extreme stretching techniques, and it is normal to expect to feel some soreness after this. However, there are other Thai massage techniques that are softer and developed to facilitate relaxation of the body and mind.

If you prefer these more relaxed Thai massage sessions that are gentler than the traditional approach, you can ask for available options. These typically involve rocking motions and the integration of yogic principles. There are also some that focus on breathing techniques, smooth flowing motions, and achieving higher awareness. 

You may be interested in the herbal heat application, Luk Pra Kob, in which a heated herbal poultice is used to make the compressions. When your tissues are warm they are more pliable which makes it more comfortable for you to receive deeper massage work. The main focus of this technique is to awaken your energy flow, uplift your spirit, and promote mind and body healing.

Final Thoughts

Each client gets a unique treatment intended to meet your individual health goals. So the question of whether it is normal to feel sore after a Thai massage is that it depends on what you need and your individual health goals. You can always communicate what you want with your Thai massage practitioner, and a reliable one should be able to adjust the technique accordingly.

If you’re looking for a seasoned Thai massage expert with extensive knowledge and skills in various approaches, you should consider ThaiMassage-NYC. From intense and challenging Thai massage all the way down to an easy-going relaxation session we’ve got you covered. 

Visit our website or get in touch with us today so we can help you explore your options!

Those who haven’t tried Thai massage sometimes hesitate because they have questions about joint cracking,

or they think it might hurt. If you have any reservations, rest assured, those who have experienced Thai massage attest that the benefits far outweigh the potential discomfort.

One of the most common questions people have about Thai massage is whether the process cracks your back or some of your other joints in general. Aside from answering that question, we will also explain what makes a joint crack and when cracking is okay.

Cracking Your Back During a Thai Massage Session

Thai massage practitioners are not chiropractors. This means it is not the role of Thai massage experts to make spinal adjustments intentionally. This is important to emphasize because some practitioners intentionally provide joint cracking as part of their sessions.

This is deemed inappropriate because Thai massage practitioners are not trained to perform the roles of chiropractors. Some Thai massage practitioners even perform sudden neck adjustments to achieve a crack. Without the right training, this can be extremely dangerous.

However, when done right, it is likely you will experience back cracks at times during the Thai massage session without the Thai massage practitioner even trying.

At ThaiMassage-NYC, each client gets a unique treatment tailored to their individual needs. While New York state law prohibits licensed massage therapists from using the specific thrusting techniques employed by chiropractors to make backs crack, cracking may happen unintentionally and this is okay. There may also be other beneficial cracking that will happen in other parts of your body, but the Thai massage practitioner will never know ahead of time or where it will occur. 

Why Do Your Joints Crack?

It is understandable to find it surprising when your back cracks while getting a Thai massage. However, by understanding a little bit about what’s happening when your joint pops, your mind will be put at ease.

So what is the science behind joint cracking?

According to a study by Kawchuk and their team at the University of Alberta, the cracking sound that your joints sometimes make is due to the small gas bubble that forms within the synovial joint. 

This cavitation of a synovial joint occurs when two bone surfaces are drawing away from each other. When this happens, a low-pressure system or a partial vacuum environment gets created. Certain dissolved gases in the joint aggregate come out of the solution momentarily, and upon formation, the bubble and vacuum degrade within a short span. The gases then move back into the solution gradually.

Is Joint Cracking During a Thai Massage Session Okay?

There are some instances during a Thai massage session where you will find your back or joints cracking even when the practitioner focuses on manipulating your soft tissues.

These relieving cracks happen because when pressure is applied slowly and gradual movements are made, your joints may cavitate spontaneously. Everyone needs a certain amount of tension within our body to hold us together. However, where you’re too stressed physically, emotionally, or mentally, there will be greater levels of tension within your connective tissues. 

When the tension gets high, there will be decreased mobility in your joints. So during a Thai massage session, when the pent-up tension around these joints gets released, there will be higher chances of joint cracking, simply because the joint won’t be able to move as far in different directions compared to normal.

So if you find your back or other joints in different parts of your body cracking while the Thai massage practitioner is moving and applying pressure slowly, it is totally fine. If you’re looking for a treatment that involves sudden movements to crack joints and make adjustments, a trained chiropractor can do this for you.

Final Thoughts

Back or joint cracking is fine while getting a Thai massage depending on when and how it happens. We understand that if you don’t typically crack your joints during a massage, it can be a bit surprising or concerning when it happens in the middle of a Thai massage session.

However, we want to assure you that it is perfectly normal for your back to crack during the process. The key thing to remember here is that it is not okay to expect Thai massage practitioners to do it intentionally because they are not trained to perform the treatments of chiropractors.

We hope that by understanding what makes joints crack and when it might happen during a Thai massage session, you will be more comfortable in getting one. If you’re looking for a reliable Thai massage therapist who specializes in various techniques and can adjust the approach according to your liking and needs, contact us for a session today.

If you’re one of the 3% of people around the world who have scoliosis, chances are, you’re looking for a better way to relieve your discomfort.

Thai massage is one of the most effective types of massage therapy. It brings a lot of benefits and can ease the symptoms of many medical conditions. But is Thai massage good for scoliosis?

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a structural deformity of the spine characterized by a lateral “S” or “C” curve in the spine. Depending on the severity of this curvature, scoliosis can cause discomfort and may even affect the functioning of your organs.

There are two types of scoliosis:

• Structural/ Idiopathic Scoliosis – The cause of structural scoliosis is unclear, and when we don’t know the cause, it is more challenging to effectively treat it. While this type of scoliosis is usually managed through custom braces or surgery, Thai massage can help ease the discomfort that comes with it.
• Functional/ Secondary Scoliosis – Sometimes, scoliosis occurs as a secondary result of another condition. Some examples include muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and other neuropathic conditions. 

How Thai Massage Helps

When you have scoliosis, the natural curvature of your spine is distorted, causing postural imbalances such as uneven hips and shoulders, deformities in the ribs, and arms. You may notice that your legs appear to be at different lengths. This asymmetry caused by scoliosis negatively impacts muscle tone and causes asymmetrical tightness of specific muscle groups.

During the session, the Thai massage practitioner will apply pressure on indicated trigger points to reduce muscle contraction. This helps address the imbalances within the muscles along the spinal column through compressions and tapping with traditional tools.

You can consult your Thai massage therapist to determine the best frequency of sessions to re-establish the equilibrium in your body.

In general, Thai massage offers several benefits for people suffering from scoliosis (and even for people who don’t have it). These include:

• Muscle relaxation
• Improved joint mobility
• Pain reduction
• Enhanced blood flow to the muscles and tissues
• Tension relief in tight areas of the body
• Improved mood

Many treatment methods have been developed to correct scoliosis or prevent it from getting worse. It’s important to note that Thai massage should not be used as a corrective therapy or as a replacement for your current treatment. Instead, you should add Thai massage in conjunction with or as a supplement for the recommended treatment.

Just to be sure, you might also want to confirm with your doctor if it is safe for you to get a Thai massage while considering the level of severity and the treatment you’re currently getting. For the best results, you can combine bracing and Thai massage with at-home exercises to manage your symptoms and improve your condition.

What You Can Do to Ease Scoliosis Symptoms

Besides Thai massage, bracing, and other therapies, there are other things that you can do for yourself to ease your symptoms. Here are some simple tips:

• Use a quality mattress– If you have a cushiony mattress, you might want to consider replacing it with a firm or medium-firm mattress. Use additional pillows to provide support where you need it for extra comfort. Also, it is not recommended to sleep on your stomach, as this position requires you to turn your head to one side, thereby twisting your spine and causing the thoracic spine to become flatter.
• Keep moving– Standing or sitting at the same position for extended periods of time can stress your muscles, leading to the worsening of symptoms. So as much as possible, take the time to stretch and take walks. If your work involves sitting for long periods, it is recommended to invest in a quality chair that offers optimal support for your back.
• Improve your core strength– There are countless exercises to improve your core strength. It is important to work out this muscle group because this supports proper posture.
• Get help with your chores– Strenuous physical activities that require bending such as cleaning the floor can worsen your condition. Getting help with such chores will prevent symptoms from getting more serious. If you can, you should also try to avoid carrying heavy packs so as to not add pressure to your spine.

Thai Massage Therapist in New York You Can Trust

A simple online search for a Thai massage therapist in New York yields hundreds of results, and we understand how difficult it is to choose one who is most suitable for your needs. If you’re looking for a highly experienced Thai massage practitioner whom you can trust, you should consider Thai Massage New York City.

Our founder and lead Thai massage therapist has been in the industry for nearly 15 years now, making ThaiMassage-NYC the most reputable Thai massage practice in the city. If you want to learn more about our expertise and the different types of Thai massage techniques we can provide, visit our website or get in touch with us today!

If you’re concerned about exposure to the public, too busy (or lazy) to go out for a massage, you can also book house calls and we’ll provide a relaxing Thai massage in the comfort of your home.

Are you suffering from Fibromyalgia?

Characterized by chronic pain and extreme sensitivity to pressure, this chronic musculoskeletal condition affects nearly five million Americans. 

Aside from experiencing pain throughout your entire body, those with fibromyalgia also experience tension headaches, feelings of fatigue, stiffness, and sleep disorders. While there is currently no known cure for fibromyalgia, you shouldn’t have to suffer. 

Massage therapies have been proven to ease the symptoms of this disease. In this article, we will discuss how fibromyalgia affects you and how Thai massage may help with fibromyalgia. 

How Fibromyalgia Affects Your Body

At present, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. With this, those who get diagnosed with it often get anxious if they will ever find relief from its symptoms. 

In 1990, researchers from the American College of Rheumatology were able to identify 18 fibromyalgia pressure points. Experienced Thai massage therapists already recognize these as Marmas. Marma in Sanskrit means hidden or secret. A  Marma point is a junction on the body where two or more tissue types meet, such as muscle, vein, ligament, bone or joints. 

Fibromyalgia patients feel the tension in their skeletal muscles and connective muscle tissues, which reduces the elasticity of their muscles and impacts their arterial blood supply. When this happens, their pain receptors get activated, resulting in the chronic pain that patients experience. 

Because the root cause of the symptoms can’t be determined, treating pain experienced by those with fibromyalgia proves to be challenging. Aside from physical pain, problems in your central nervous system’s release of serotonin may also lead to mood swings and depression. Furthermore, it can affect your ability to get quality rest, which leads to feelings of exhaustion.

Thai Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

As mentioned, fibromyalgia has no known direct cure yet. However, there are different types of treatments available to ease a patient’s symptoms. 

One of the most effective treatments for fibromyalgia sufferers is massage therapy. By getting a Thai massage, you can enjoy pain relief, a reduction in stress hormones, and a boost in your serotonin levels after the manipulation of the Marmas. All of these combined leads to an improved sense of well-being for people with fibromyalgia. 

When done right, Thai massage techniques can help keep you relaxed and improve the quality of your sleep. When you get a good night’s sleep, your body can repair itself better so you can start fresh the next day. Quality rest doesn’t only give you more physical vitality, but also the mental clarity needed to address challenges throughout your day. 

Not all Thai massage is the same. However, the best approach for those with fibromyalgia involves a combination of kneading, pressure, stretching, and heat at just the right levels. These massage techniques will help reduce the tightness in your body and improve your mobility so you can perform other physical activities and your day-to-day tasks.

Because Thai massage can clear the blockage in the pathways by which your life forces flow, it can help ease your pain and clear out stagnancy within your tissues.

Thai Massage Limitations for Fibromyalgia Patients

Before getting any type of massage, it is recommended to consult with your physician. 

A typical Thai massage may involve intense pressures and movements, which may not be suitable for those with fibromyalgia because they are sensitive. However, experienced Thai practitioners use techniques that involve gentler motions and pressure that adapts to each individual. 

Make sure to inform your Thai massage therapist about your condition so the practitioner can adjust the techniques accordingly. Keep in mind that deep tissue work is not advisable because the intensity and overstretching of the muscles can lead to pain and discomfort that you don’t want.

Furthermore, if you decide to get a massage, you need to consider adding the herbal compress. Your primary goal should be to relax yourself and make your body more flexible and elastic. 

How Thai Massage Can Benefit Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Below are some of the ways fibromyalgia patients can benefit from Thai massage sessions:

• Promotes relaxation, leading to better sleep- Evening Thai massage sessions may help patients improve their quality of sleep. This is beneficial as it allows the body to recover faster.
• Enhances muscle tone- Thai massage therapy can make your muscles more effective and improve the vitality of your body.
• Improves mental clarity- When you’re relaxed, your mental strain reduces and your mental awareness is heightened.
• Eliminates headaches- More blood flow to the brain can ease the physical source of headaches among fibromyalgia patients.

Generally, experiencing some relief from these symptoms can help keep your mind in a healthier space.

Final Thoughts

Are you looking for a reliable Thai massage practitioner in the city who can tailor the session according to your specific needs? You should check out ThaiMassage-NYC.

With over 14 years of experience, we know how to ease your symptoms and provide long-term relief. If you want to learn more about our Thai massage services, get in touch with Thai Massage New York City today! 

Thai massage has become increasingly popular over the years. Spas in New York and other parts of the world offer this treatment because of the countless benefits it brings.

But where does Thai massage really come from? In this article, we will trace back the roots of this ancient healing art.

Thai healing practitioners pay homage to him in a Wai Khru ritual which is repeated before and after giving the massages. The wai khru ceremony (Thai: พิธีไหว้ครู, pronounced [wâːj kʰrūː]) is a Thai ritual in which students pay respects to teachers in order to express their gratitude. It is regularly held near the beginning of the school year in most schools in Thailand. 

Wai Kru has long been an important rite in the traditional martial and performing arts, as well as in astrology, Thai Massage, and other traditional arts; students and performers of Muay Thai and Krabi Krabong, as well as Thai dance and classical music, will usually perform a wai khru ritual at their initiation as well as before performances to pay respect and homage to both their teachers and the deities who patronize their arts.

According to researchers, Thai medicine has rural and royal traditions. The rural tradition of healing is non-scholarly and is simply passed down to generations through experiential methods of teaching. Meanwhile, the royal tradition of Thai massage had been developed for the royal court and employs a more classic approach, refraining from heavy stretching and deep pressures..

Because Thailand is strategically located between India and China, there has been a constant flow of ideas, culture, and traditions from both countries. Even though the evolution of Thai massage techniques and practices largely occurred in Thailand, this healing art does include influences from India’s Ayurvedic tradition and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). 

The influences of these countries can be seen in many ways. For instance, anyone who is familiar with yoga can easily find the similarity in the movements between yoga and Thai massage. People who have received acupuncture will recognize the way a Thai massage practitioner organizes the therapy along the lines which run along pathways similar to the pulmonary/nervous systems and the myofascial planes.

Eastern Origins of Thai Massage

As Buddhism expanded from northern India into Southeast Asia, the practice of manipulating the being like a healing art spread with it. It moved to the southern region of India, and then to Sri Lanka, and eventually made its way to Thailand and several other locations where they continue to practice the art form in a similar way. 

Today, Theravada, (Pali: “Way of the Elders”) remains a major form of Buddhism prevalent in Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Theravada, like all other Buddhist schools, claims to adhere most closely to the original doctrines and practices taught by the Buddha.

Thai massage is an integral part of Buddhism. And although it took four centuries to spread to Thailand, the massage technique became more popular in this region due to the existing culture of the Mon and Kmer people who had immigrated with their Animistic beliefs.

Thai massage was created as an act of loving-kindness (mettā) and performed for healing purposes. However, many people today get a Thai massage simply for relaxation and enjoyment.

Key Principles of Thai Massage

 Ideally, your mind and body should be one. The separation between these spheres represents an imbalance. In a nutshell, Thai massage is based on the premise that you need to correct the energy balance throughout your being to ease your pain and discomfort, and more importantly, to achieve optimal health.

The basic principle of Thai massage involves manipulating the extremities of the body, followed by working towards the core and then going back to the extremities. Doing this is believed to promote the proper flow of energy through the Sen.  Sen in Thai = pathways on which the life forces flow in the body

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If you’re familiar with Western massage techniques, you’ll immediately notice how different Thai massage is. Unlike other Western types of massage, Thai massage is performed on a comfortable mat on the floor while you’re completely clothed. 

Practitioners may not even use oils as the clothing provides the slippage needed to avoid irritation of the skin.  Experienced practitioners may use oils and balms for their therapeutic values toward balancing the being through absorption of the properties through the skin and warming the tissues preceding deeper work.

Thai massage is performed mostly through deep compressions and rhythmic manipulation of muscles and bones, as well as some rocking, tapping, twisting, and stretching movements. With the application of pressure and motions involved during a Thai massage session, tension and blockage will be released and your condition will improve.

Thai massage practitioners use different body parts in addition to their hands such as forearms, knees, hips, and feet to perform the massages. Additionally, the therapist will also assist you in performing different stretching positions that may remind you of yoga poses, so you can enjoy their therapeutic effects. You may be placed in prone, supine, side-lying, seated, twisted and inverted positions if you book enough time for a therapist to get to all of them.

Some of the most common benefits of Thai massage include the following:

• Relief from headache
• Reduction of back pain
• Relief from joint stiffness and pain
• Reduction of anxiety
• Invigorated and energized physical and emotional condition.
• Improved flexibility and mobility

Thai massage often gets a reputation for being painful. However, you should always communicate your concerns and preferences with the Thai massage therapist so adjustments can be made. Modern practitioners can perform gentler and more relaxed techniques according to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Over the years, Thai massage has evolved and practitioners continue to develop techniques to suit the preferences of various types of clients. If you want to explore the different Thai massage techniques available, visit one of the most experienced and trusted Thai massage therapists in New York.

From Traditional Thai Massage to 4-hands Thai and Thai Herbal Compress Massage, we’ve got you covered! Contact us today and let us help you explore the most suitable options for your specific needs.