"Thai massage" or "Thai yoga massage" is an ancient healing system combining acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures.
In the Thai language it is usually called nuat phaen thai.
It originated in Buddhist monasteries as a form of preventative health care for monks.
To understand this type of massage, one has to firstly know that this message stands out very different from the common type of massaging.
Unlike more popular forms of massage the use oil or lotion and are done on an elevated massage table, verywell notes that Thai massage is usually done on a padded mat or futon on the floor.
Also, no oil or lotion is applied, so you are fully clothed.
The therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches and also applies muscle compression, joint mobilisation, and acupressure.
This sounds painful right?
Well, as stated by verywell, Thai massage is invigorating.
Unlike more classic styles of massage, Thai massage is often described as painful, but a licensed massage therapist should use your feedback and adjust the degree of pressure and stretching.
Applying pressure to tender muscle fiber adhesions (known as "muscle knots") can hurt, but there is a difference between that type of discomfort and pain due to excessive or inappropriate pressure and stretching.
While it may be difficult to avoid some discomfort when targeting muscle knots, a qualified, licensed massage therapist should be able to adjust the massage pressure and movements so that you are not in pain.
And the effect is very beneficial.
Thai massage helps to reduce the individual’s stress levels and improve their overall circulation. This is accomplished by the gradual movement of the person through different yoga yoga-like positions. This will enhance the person’s flexibility allowing for a greater range of motion. This greater range of motion and flexibility reduces muscle stress and strain, and helps to prevent trip and fall accidents.
The slow movements allow for the mind and spirit to slow down and realise a true form of relaxation. It centres the individual. In doing this stressors will not affect the person as much. These stressors, in later life, cause heart problems. In centering oneself, and lowering the reaction to stressors, one will lower the occurrence of heart problems.
Thai massage allows the person to attain a true level of relaxation. The stress will be depleted from their muscles. This will facilitate a more fluid range of extension by the muscle. This will help to increase your energy levels. With healthier muscles and increased energy, the person will be able to maintain healthy weights. This will lower sugar levels, and reverse the onset of type 2 diabetes, and help with the maintenance of type one diabetes.
