We all hear a lot about the benefits of a traditional Thai massage, but how is it different to other massage techniques? Here we will explore the main differences you will experience during a Thai massage as opposed to, let’s say, a Swedish or deep tissue massage. All massages offer tension release, but a Thai massage addresses a lot more than just muscle soreness. It is a holistic massage that addresses your mind, body and soul.

Keep your clothing on

The first thing you will notice when being prepared for a Thai massage is that instead of being asked to undress and get under a sheet, covering, or towel, you will be fully clothed. Traditionally, this clothing will be loose fitting and enable full movement without impeding on your modesty. Yoga pants are equally appropriate for this type of massage. The reason you wear clothing is to allow your masseuse to get a firm grip to efficiently deliver your treatment.

Best done on the floor

Next up, there is no massage table. A Thai massage is carried out on a floor mat. This is to enable your massage therapist to not only move your body into any position safely, but it is also to ensure your masseuse can get themselves into whichever position is required as they use their hands, feet, legs and arms on various points of your body. Full freedom of movement is essential, and this can only be achieved without hindrance or safety concerns at the floor level.

Using more than just hands

Speaking of the masseuse using different parts of their body, this technique is unique to Thai massage as most massages are delivered using a practitioner’s hands only. Your massage therapist will use their legs to support parts of your body as they bend or stretch to ensure you are safely manipulated. They may walk on your back. This sounds painful but is undertaken with such care and precision that it feels amazing. Elbows are used to deliver more powerful pressure on points that require more than what the hands deliver. It really is a whole-body experience for both the masseuse and the recipient.

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Yoga poses

There is a reason Thai massage is also known as lazy yoga. Your masseuse will move your body into various positions to stretch your muscles and manipulate your joints much in line with yoga, except you are fully relaxed and your masseuse does all the work. This is why it is considered a full-body treatment. From the tips of your toes to the top of your head, you will be massaged, stretched, and even have your toes pulled. Do not be concerned if you hear the crack of a toe joint, it is part of the release of tensions within your body. Other massage techniques do not include the body movements that a Thai massage comprises which is why when you have a Thai massage, your joints will feel more open and your muscles more relaxed.

No oil residue

While there are options for an oil Thai massage, the traditional method is oil-free. Oils are not needed as your body is manipulated and kneaded through your clothing. A skilful practitioner will not require your skin to be lubricated to provide the full body treatment that Thai massage offers. Your massage therapist will be in tune with your body’s needs and limitations to deliver precisely what is needed to leave your joints loosened and opened and your body refreshed and tension free. Though, as with any treatment, always feel free to speak up if something is concerning you or feel uncomfortable.

Incorporating Sen

Another key element that makes Thai massage different is that it is founded in Buddhism. Traditionally the recipient would meditate during a massage, hence it being a holistic mind, body and soul treatment. Energy lines are followed and acupressure is applied where required to release negative energy from joints, nerves and muscles, effectively healing the body through “sen” which is what your energy lines are referred to in Thai traditional medicine. It is believed that Buddha’s personal physician founded traditional Thai massage and continued through to today as an approved method of medical care.

These six differences are only a few of the technique variances between Thai massage and other forms of massage. Thai massage originated over 2500 years ago, and little has changed today in how the treatment is delivered due to the proven effectiveness this type of therapy has on your body. We have visited the main differences you will experience to demonstrate that there are some subtle and obvious variances between traditional Thai massage and other massage techniques. Try a Thai massage and discover how these technique differences truly deliver on helping your body to feel tension free, and your mind totally relaxed.

Drop us a line today if you’d like to experience all the benefits of Thai massage from the comfort of your hotel or private residence.