Thai massage is a kind of massage with Thai style that involves stretching and deep massage. This form of bodywork is usually performed on the floor, and the client wears comfortable clothes that allow for movement.
Thai Massage was actually developed by Buddhist monks in Thailand as a healing modality 2,500 years ago. Thai massage uses passive stretching and gentle pressure along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, relieve muscle and joint tension and balance the body’s energy systems. Thai massage is both deeply relaxing and energizing.
Thai massage is usually done on a padded floor mat, which allows the therapist to easily manipulate the body of the client. First you lie on a mat on the floor, fully clothed except for shoes and socks. The practitioner uses thumbs, palms, forearms, elbows, feet knees and even shins to press and stretch your body. Pressing is the mechanical process used to stimulate energy flow in the Sen, and to release blockages or stagnation which result in pain. This part of the massage is very thorough. Each Sen channel is pressed repeatedly from every direction, with the relative positions of the limbs and trunk being constantly changed. The process is very thorough.
When the practitioner is satisfied that all soft tissues have been adequately pressed, stretching begins. This will be subtle at first but gradually progresses to the elegant, large scale stretches for which Thai massage is renowned. Every muscle and joint is treated. The therapist also incorporates breathing techniques into the massage session, along with acupressure points and trigger point techniques. Thai Massage involves active participation on the part of the client, who works with the therapist for a successful massage.