Thai Massage

What is Thai Massage?

Thai massage, also known as Thai yoga massage or Nuad Thai, is an ancient healing practice dating back over 2,500 years. Unlike Western massage, Thai massage is performed on a floor mat with you fully clothed, using no oils.

The therapist uses their hands, thumbs, elbows, knees, and feet to move you through a series of yoga-like stretches while applying pressure along the body's energy lines (called "sen"). It's often described as "lazy person's yoga" because you receive the benefits of stretching without doing the work.

Key Elements of Thai Massage

• Sen lines - Energy pathways similar to meridians in Chinese medicine
• Acupressure - Thumb and palm pressure on specific points
• Assisted stretching - Passive yoga-like movements
• Rhythmic compression - Pressing and releasing along muscles
• Joint mobilisation - Gentle movement of joints through range of motion
• Rocking motions - Creating flow and relaxation

Benefits of Thai Massage

• Improved flexibility - Deep stretches increase range of motion
• Enhanced energy flow - Clearing blockages in energy lines
• Reduced muscle tension - Combination of pressure and stretching
• Better posture - Releases tight muscles affecting alignment
• Increased circulation - Movement and compression boost blood flow
• Stress relief - Meditative quality promotes relaxation
• Headache relief - Effective for tension headaches
• Mental clarity - Energising yet calming effect

What to Expect During Your Session

• Sessions typically last 90 minutes to 2 hours
• Performed on a padded mat on the floor
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing (no jeans or restrictive fabric)
• No oils or lotions are used
• The therapist will move your body into various positions
• You may be stretched in ways that feel unfamiliar but should never hurt
• Communication about comfort and pressure is important
• You may feel energised yet relaxed afterward

Thai Massage vs Western Massage

• Position - Floor mat vs massage table
• Clothing - Fully clothed vs undressed with draping
• Oils - None vs typically used
• Movement - Active stretching vs passive lying still
• Approach - Whole body energy work vs muscle-focused
• Duration - Longer sessions (90+ min) vs shorter options available
• Experience - More interactive and dynamic

Who Benefits from Thai Massage?

• Those with limited flexibility wanting to improve
• People who prefer to remain clothed during massage
• Anyone interested in Eastern healing traditions
• Those who find lying still during massage difficult
• Athletes wanting assisted stretching
• People with chronic tension and stiffness
• Those seeking both physical and energetic benefits

Considerations and Contraindications

Thai massage may not be suitable if you have:

• Recent injuries, especially to joints or spine
• Osteoporosis or brittle bones
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Pregnancy (unless with a trained prenatal Thai massage practitioner)
• Recent surgery
• Herniated discs or severe back problems

Always inform your therapist of any health conditions before treatment.