What is Thai Massage?

Thai massage, sometimes called Thai Yoga Massage, is a full-body massage performed on a floor mat (also known as a Thai mat), with both parties in loose comfortable clothing. The practitioner uses his or her hands, feet, arms, and legs to guide the recipient into various yoga-like postures. This style incorporates rhythmic motion, compression, stretching, and the conscious use of breath to promote balance and relaxation throughout the body.

Relaxing, yet highly effective

Table massage is typically divided into two broad styles, Relaxation and Therapeutic. Relaxation generally focuses on feeling good here and now and reducing stress, while Therapeutic may be uncomfortable while receiving the treatment, yet it has longer lasting effects. Thai Massage readily combines the best aspects of both styles of table massage in the form of a relaxing treatment with long lasting effects. Because of the quantity and quality of stretching involved, Thai massage is particularly effective for those who have a sedentary job or lifestyle.

Athletic performance

Thai Massage is very much like sports massage but with more comprehensive stretching. The use of a Thai mat allows for more leverage, so it is easier to accomplish various stretching techniques and apply more pressure to areas that need it. Stretches that are difficult to achieve while on a massage table are easily accessible on a Thai mat.

Modesty Preservation

The single largest barrier for someone to try massage for the first time is their sense of modesty. The thought of being partially or completely nude while covered by only a sheet and blanket and allowing a perfect stranger to place their hands upon them can be downright frightening for some people.

With Thai Massage the recipient remains fully clothed, so this fear is reduced significantly. A person who is comfortable having a personal trainer or physical therapist assist with stretching will generally be comfortable receiving a Thai Massage.