Thai massage originated in Thailand more than 1,000 years ago and is a very popular form of massage in the Western world. Based on Ayurvedic medicine and yoga, this art form has been passed down through an unbroken chain of masters over the centuries. Thai massage is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world, and is one of the fastest growing types of massage in the United States.
What is Thai massage like?
The main difference for this type of therapy is that no oil is used and the therapist uses a mattress on the floor instead of a regular table and the client remains completely clothed throughout the session. This is very different from what most people expect in the West, many people describe this type of therapy to do yoga on you.
Some people call this therapeutic yoga in action because it uses multiple stretch sequences by having pressure applied to the thumbs, palms, elbows, knees, and feet.
Thai Massage Technique and Benefits
Before starting therapy, the therapist usually interviews the client to find out about the client’s specific condition and discusses their pain tolerance before starting massage. Once the massage has started, it takes a rhythm and only stops if the pain is too much from too much pressure or too light if not enough pressure is applied.
Thai therapy usually starts with the extremities starting from the legs and feet and then moving to the hands and arms. From there, massage the stomach with yoga stretches and the back is massaged for relaxation. Finally, head, neck and face are massaged to complete the treatment.
