Thousands of years have passed since traditional Thai massage was first used in Thailand. During the same time Buddhism reached Thailand, the techniques and philosophy comprising Thai body massage were passed on to the people. It incorporates acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and yoga poses to provide a healing experience.Nothing is better than a traditional Thai full-body massage to relax your body and mind. It is not just about unwinding but also restoring balance to your body.
This article will cover everything you need to know about Thai traditional massage therapy, including its benefits and why you should try it.
Traditional Thai Massage
What Is Traditional Thai Massage?
Traditional Thai yoga massage is one of the oldest arts and sciences that deal with whole-body relaxation through gentle pressure and stretches done by trained professionals, using various techniques. It harmonizes the energy system in our bodies, enabling us to be healthy both physically and mentally. Generally, it is a heritage wellness resource that is originating from India. Though some similarities exist between Thai traditional body massage and deep tissue massage, it focuses on treating the entire body rather than just musculoskeletal issues. Besides, traditional Thai full-body massage seems to have a different pattern than other methods. In addition to treating musculoskeletal issues such as strains and sprains, it also has far broader alternative healing applications.
History of Traditional Thai Massage
It has been known for many centuries that traditional Thai body massage originated in Thailand. More than 2500 years ago, the legendary physician Shivago Komarpaj incorporated it with Thai medicine to develop this formula.
In 1767, the continuous written record of Thai healing massage history was destroyed when the Burmese attacked Ayutthaya, destroying the writings. The records that survived have been transcribed onto stone tablets and are now safely preserved at the temple of the reclining Buddha (Wat Po) in Bangkok.
This is why Wat Pho remains a reputable centre for those who wish to learn the ancient healing art of Wat Pho.
Is Traditional Thai Massage Good For Your Health?
Yes, Thai massage may have a variety of health benefits. While some of these benefits are similar to those of Western massage techniques, other advantages may be unique to traditional Thai body massage.
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Relief From Back Pain
In certain cases, this massage can be beneficial for people with back pain. However, if you have constant spinal aches, it’s best to visit a doctor before getting any type of massage.
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Enhance Energy Levels
Many Thai therapeutic massage sessions are described as relaxing and rejuvenating because they incorporate whole-body movements, many of them like yoga.
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Lowers Stress and Anxiety
There are many negative health effects associated with too much stress, both mental and physical. Thai massage can be soothing and relaxing, which might ease stress and anxiety, according to research.
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Joint Stiffness and Pain
This massage can have positive effects on people who feel pain and stiffness while moving their joints. In a 2014 study, researchers combined Thai therapeutic massage with wand exercises to study their effects on people with knee arthritis. After the 8-week program, study participants felt less joint pain and could walk more easily.
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Boosts Flexibility and Range of Motion
The benefits of Thai traditional massage therapy may include improved athletic performance and greater mobility. In a small, localized study, 34 soccer players were tested on how Thai traditional body massage impacts athletic performance. During 10 days, soccer players receiving these messages showed significant improvements in all physical fitness activities.
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Ease Headaches
You might benefit from traditional Thai body massage techniques if you suffer from migraines. It has been reported by Trusted Source that it may reduce chronic tension headaches by as much as 50%.
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Ensures Proper Digestion
The practice of this massage consists of foot-to-head massages, which include abdominal massages as well. An abdominal massage can manipulate some energy points within the abdomen that can help boost digestion because we are moving that energy around.
What Techniques Are Used With traditional Thai massage?
Traditionally, Thai full-body therapy techniques can be classified into several categories, such as:
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Acupressure
The Thai massage exponent applies pressure to specific parts of your body to promote muscle relaxation. These actions may be performed by practitioner with their thumbs, elbows, fingers, or palms. Most of the time, they choose a combination that is most appropriate for the client’s needs.
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Stretching
During this massage, the practitioner guides the client into yoga poses to stretch their muscles and ligaments. Thailand’s traditional body massage is sometimes referred to as lazy man’s yoga due to its key element of relaxation.
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Deep Tissue Compression
Using deep tissue compression, Thai therapeutic massage manipulates muscles and releases tension deeply rooted in the body. While traditional deep-tissue massage therapists use their hands to apply pressure, Thai reflexology therapists often apply firm pressure with their elbows, knees, and even feet. The result is increased circulation, reduced muscle soreness, and a reduction in chronic tension.
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Palming and Thumbing
Among the Thai manipulative techniques of physical massage, palming and thumbing are also used to apply pressure along the energy lines and muscles. While palming incorporates a wider surface area of the palm, thumbing involves a smaller, more focused area of the thumb. Hence, these manipulations provoke an effect on blood circulation and oxygenation and relieve tension, thus restoring balance to this energy.
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Reflexology
Commonly, Thai physical massage would include elements of reflexology mainly on the feet. By pressing certain specific points on the feet, a therapist stimulates the appropriate organs and systems of the body, making them healthy and functional. In addition, this method supports self-healing and also balances the inner system of the body.
Traditional Thai Massage Therapy Vs Other Massage Therapy
There are most of the Massage involves manipulating your muscles with a practitioner’s hands and sometimes other objects. Besides, a massage table allows you to alternate between lying facedown and faceup. On the other hand, Thai therapy is performed on a mat on the floor.
Generally, you can not leave your clothes on while receiving a Thai healing massage. However, you should wear clothing that is comfortable and loose-fitting so you can move freely. Alternatively, as with other types of massage, you normally remove most of your clothing when receiving one.
To stretch joints and massage key areas of the body, massage practitioners move your limbs around.
Who should consider getting a traditional Thai massage?
The Thai wellness massage may be the right choice for you if you lead a sedentary lifestyle and are seeking ways to relieve aches and pains. Also good for athletes and those who lead active lifestyles, since it enhances flexibility. In addition, traditional Thai healing massage would be beneficial for the following groups of people:
- Chronically tense people
- Those seeking greater flexibility
- A person who is stressed or anxious
- People who have poor circulation
- Individuals who seek a full-body experience.
However, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before scheduling a Thai yoga massage, especially if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Heart disease
- Hypertension
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Pregnant women
Although Thai massage reduces tension in your muscles, increases flexibility, reduces the frequency of severity, and alleviates back pain, making it worth researching the ancient practice.
Risks of Thai Yoga Traditional Massage?
While traditional Thai therapeutic massage has numerous benefits, it does come with certain risks and limitations, especially for certain individuals. One of the risks is that it can alter your heart rate, which can be dangerous if one has a heart condition. Also, it might cause bone and muscle injuries due to its vigorous massage. Thus, you will need to consult a licensed massage therapist in case you want to reduce the chance of your injury resulting from Thai massage.
Tips for Taking a Traditional Thai Massage in Dhaka, Bangladesh
To make the most of this traditional Thai yoga therapy session in Dhaka, Bangladesh, follow these tips:
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Choose a Reputable Spa
If you receive Thai massage in Bangladesh from a reputable spa or massage parlour, you will benefit from its safety and effectiveness.
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Consult your Thai Massage Practitioners
When you receive a massage, you must communicate with your therapist to ensure that the pressure and techniques used are comfortable for you.
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Make sure you wear Comfortable Clothing
As this massage is typically performed with the client fully clothed, it is important to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows the client to move freely during the session.
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Eat Light Before the Session
Due to Thai massage’s extensive stretching and manipulation of the body, a heavy meal should be avoided before your massage.
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Stay Hydrated
Keeping hydrated and flushing your body of toxins during and after a Thai physical body massage is important.
Traditional Thai Massage At Zen Massage Spa
The Zen Massage Spa offers the highest quality Thai massage methods, including traditional Thai massages, Thai oil-based massages, Thai herbal massages, and Thai foot massages. All these techniques offer different benefits, and further elaboration can be done to suit all our clients’ different requirements.
Additionally, various spa treatments, like aromatherapy and reflexology, complement our massage treatments. Moreover, each treatment has been tailor-designed to help you relax and rejuvenate, to feel fresh and revitalized.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right spa is very important to get the best traditional Thai massage. By doing so, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your time. Here is why Zen Massage Spa in Dhaka will be your suitable choice. Below we are providing a few reasons to choose us:
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Authentic Thai massage techniques
Our massage therapists have been trained in authentic Thai therapeutic massage techniques passed down through generations. We pride ourselves in providing you with real, traditional therapy that embodies all the components of a full-body massage, including deep tissue compression, assisted yoga postures, and energy line work.
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Licensed and Experienced Therapists
We have a team of professional, certified massage specialists who are committed to taking good care of you in the best possible way. They are well-versed in all the details of Thai massage and will adapt the treatment to your needs, be it muscle tension relief, stress reduction, or flexibility enhancement.
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The Atmosphere is Peaceful
The Zen Massage Spa is a haven where you can get rid of all that stress and turmoil life entails. As soon as you enter, you’ll be greeted with soothing decor, calm aromas, and a serene atmosphere enough to set the tone for being deeply relaxed.
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Treatments Tailored to your needs
We are conscious that each of our clients has unique needs. Whether you are looking for a gentle approach to take your stress away or a more intense deep tissue session to help deal with chronic pain, our therapists work to provide customised treatments that bring the focus back to comfort and well-being.
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Focus on Hygiene and Cleanliness
Hygiene is taken very seriously at Zen Massage Spa and for that, we sanitize all the equipment, towels, and linens after each use. Besides we follow the highest level of cleanliness and provide a safe and healthy environment for all clients.
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Holistic Approach to Wellness
Taking care of one’s health holistically means more than just physically relaxing oneself; it also means taking care of one’s emotional and mental health.
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Located in the Centre of Dhaka
Being in the heart of Dhaka, our spa is much more accessible without having to go out of your way. Whether you live in Dhaka or are just visiting, it is very easy to reach our spa for a quick gateway from the hassles of the city.
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Packages and Pricing that are Affordable
Offering competitive prices for Thai massage allows our clients to afford the luxury and its benefits. We offer special appointments and promotional offers for regular clients, helping you maintain a healthy lifestyle through Thai massage.
Final Thoughts
A traditional Thai physical massage offers some physical and psychological benefits. However, you can experience the healing effects of traditional Thai body massage at Zen Massage Spa. We have skilled massage therapists who combine acupressure, yoga poses, and stretching techniques to promote relaxation, reduce pain and muscle tension, improve flexibility and range of motion, and boost immunity.
So visit us at Zen Massage Spa and discover for yourself the ancient healing art of Thai massage.
We are grateful that you chose our spa for your relaxation and therapeutic needs.
To schedule a therapy session, please contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Thai traditional yoga massage work?
According to Chinese medicine and acupressure philosophy, we all have meridian lines within our bodies, and the points along these meridian lines are called acupressure points. Through stimulation of the acupressure points, the flow of energy throughout the body is believed to flow more efficiently.
Where do Thai massages take place?
A Thai massage traditionally has four main positions. A flat-backed client is approached from the front. The second position involves the client lying on either side of their body as the masseuse works on them. In a third position, the client is lying prone on their stomach and is given a back massage. Finally, the recipient will be seated. In all positions, stretches will be applied and the masseuse will work on the major Sen lines of the body.
Why are the Thai massage sessions so long?
Due to the main goal of energy balancing, the physical moves become part of a more meditative, spiral of healing that feels increasingly good and gets better with each passing day, leading to a profound and integrated feeling of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being for the giver and receiver.
Which people shouldn’t get a Thai massage?
Even with the benefits associated with Thai massage, some people have conditions that may not be suitable for the practice. Generally, it is not recommended for pregnant women and people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. Additionally, cancer patients, people who have recently undergone surgery, people suffering from active open wounds or bleeding disorders, individuals on blood thinners, having deep vein thrombosis, and a few spinal conditions require consultation with the doctor before taking up a massage.
What is the frequency of Thai massage sessions?
It is advisable to schedule 2 hours every 2 weeks at first, and then monthly once the body becomes more flexible. More than a month apart will result in stiffness in the body.
Is traditional Thai therapeutic massage painful?
Usually, pressure from the Thai massage may vary in your body and how the therapist will press on you. Some people may find the deep stretches uncomfortable initially because of the pressure from it, especially if they are accustomed to it. However, a therapist will always be in a position to make modifications in intensity based on your preference.
