Thai Massage is one of the 5 primary branches of Traditional Thai Medicine and is believed to have grown from the ancient Thai self care practice of Reusi Dat Ton. With therapeutic benefits that extend far beyond relaxation, it has been a part of preventative medicine and everyday wellness in Thailand for thousands of years.
Thai Massage, which is sometimes referred to as Thai “Yoga” Massage, is often recognized by its lovely assisted, “yoga-like” stretches. However, this is only one small aspect of the work, and there are in fact many more techniques utilized in appointments to address the client's individual needs. Techniques that may be incorporated into a session include deep compression, point work, Sen line work, traction, jostling, percussion, cupping, scraping (known as gua-sha in Chinese medicine), work with scarves, and more. The combining of these techniques creates a very well-rounded and highly effective bodywork that can range from a gentle, relaxation-focused session to a deep, direct session focused on a particular area of discomfort.
Clients have found Thai Massage to be beneficial for:
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Hip and Low Back Pain and Tension
Deep Relaxation
Pain Reduction
Resetting the Nervous System
Greater Sense of Well Being
Overall Muscle Tightness
Improved Flexibility and Joint Mobility
Injury Recovery
Better Circulation
What to expect in your session: Unlike Swedish massage, Thai massage is performed fully clothed on a large mat on the floor. This allows the therapist to move freely around the client in different positions, and offers the potential to use their full body weight as leverage when needed for deeper work. Beyond just the hands, Thai therapists use arms, elbows, knees and feet as bodywork tools.
My work and studies as a Thai Massage therapist are rooted in Thai element theory. I strive to look at each client as an individual through this lens, and create my treatment plan based on client needs and the imbalances that I see. No two treatments are the same. My natural style is slow but strong and focused, treatment-based work. If you are looking for a therapist that will beat you up and tie you in a knot, I am not the therapist for you! Depending on your individual needs, your appointment may include hot herbal compresses, cupping or scraping at no extra charge. Herbal balms and liniments are often used and applied directly to the skin. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that you do not mind potentially getting oil on. (Options may be provided for you if needed.) Some of the products used may be available for purchase for home use.
Interested to learn more about how Thai Massage might work for you? Let's chat! I offer free phone consultations to answer any questions you might have about this practice, or my holistic health coaching and yoga offerings. I'd love to hear from you!