Thai massage is also referred to as Thai Yoga Massage or Thai Yoga, because the practitioner uses his or her hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches. People who try Thai massage sometimes say it is a bit like doing yoga, but with the assistance of the practitioner to guide you into the poses, while also stretching, pulling and pressing. Muscle compression, joint mobilization, and acupressure are also used during Thai massage.

Thai massage requires education and training from a qualified instructor and should only be performed by a qualified Thai Massage instructor/practitioner. Here are a few traditional Thai Yoga Massage stretches/poses:

  • A bridge pose is a Thai Massage position that opens the back and chest areas.
  • The back press is another Thai Massage pose that opens the chest and also the shoulder areas.
  • The king cobra is a Thai Massage pose that stretches the middle and upper back, while simultaneously also opening the chest and shoulder area.
  • The cobra is a Thai Massage pose that stretches the middle and upper back while opening the chest and shoulder area.
  • The butterfly pose is a Thai Massage pose that stretches the hamstrings.
  • The spinal twist in lying position is a Thai Massage pose that stretches the back.
  • The shoulder stand is a pose that stretches the back and the quadriceps muscles.
  • The plough pose is a pose that stretches the neck and hamstrings.
  • The fish pose is a pose that stretches the back while opening the chest and shoulders.
  • Half locust stretches the quadriceps and psoas muscles.
  • The spinal twist is a pose that stretches the back on each side of the body.

The mix of deep pressure and assisted yoga can be powerful. Instead of the relaxing gliding and kneading motions characteristic of traditional on the table massage, Thai Massage employs stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques that help to relieve tension and enhance flexibility and range of motion. The practitioner uses his or her hands, knees, legs and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches and also applies deep muscle compression, joint mobilization, and acupressure, as well as utilizing energy work, which treats the energetic field within the body. This helps to correct blockages, deficiencies, and imbalances in the flow of this energy, which is known to lead to improved health.

Some benefits include:

  • Relief of tension headaches
  • Reduced back pain
  • Relief of muscle pain and spasticity as well as joint stiffness and pain
  • Increased flexibility and range of motion
  • Stimulated circulation and lymphatic drainage
  • Boost energy
  • Calming of the nervous system

Things important to know before going to a Thai Yoga Massage appointment:

  • You are usually asked to bring or wear loose, comfortable clothing
  • They typically last 60 minutes to 120 minutes
  • Do not eat a heavy meal before the appointment
  • Arrive a bit early if it is your first appointment
  • Be sure to discuss any history of health issues with the practitioner
  • If you feel pain or discomfort at any time during the practice, let the practitioner know