Thai massage

Very thorough, Thai massage combines the virtues of different techniques and is well worth discovering, whether you are in need of therapeutic help or mere relaxation.

Massage relaxes while unravelling blockages and muscle tension through varied methods of kneading of the muscles. Acupressure – pressing precise acupuncture points – helps to rebalance Qi, the vital energy present within and around us. In Eastern tradition, all illness is linked to a Qi imbalance.

Massage also improves blood circulation and the stretching inspired by yoga, tai chi or the movements in Thai massage work on joints and skeletal movement, to improve body flow and ease. Everything falls back into place.

Thai massage is a moment of pure happiness, offering a boost in both vitality and relaxation.

The benefits of Thai massage

In Thailand, massage is used for both preventive and therapeutic reasons. It’s particularly effective for treating back pain, circulation problems, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, general fatigue, stress, etc. Done regularly, Thai massage makes daily life more harmonious.

Traditionally, massage is taught in Buddhist temples, the most famous school being Wat Po in Bangkok. Treating the body is never far from treating the soul and in fact, Thai massage not only releases physical tension but also releases negative emotions.

What is involved in a Thai massage session?

Thai massage can deal with only one part of the body, such as the feet or the neck, or you can go for more complete total body therapeutic massage.

Thai massage often begins by the soles of the feet. This important energy zone reflects the whole body and gives the masseur a first indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the body being massaged.

At the start of a session, the tense, contracted body is like earth that has to be worked so that, from muscles to joints, through the circulatory system, it regains fluidity, lightness and energy. Like a sculptor, the masseur kneads the flesh, goes up the meridians, making a new body geography spring forth, endowed with its own lines and essential points.

Opening joints through stretching exercises whereby the masseur and person being massaged hold onto each other, pressing certain blood circulation points to cleanse vessels and stimulate Qi, rolling each spinal vertebrae with fingertips, stretching the back, releasing neck tension... the masseur fully concentrates on each of his/her tasks.

Letting go like a doll in expert hands that are deeply knowledgeable about the body, you relax even if you may sometimes be surprised by some of the movements. Thai massage is no namby-pamby massage with fluttering light strokes – this is in-depth massage. After an hour or two, you leave feeling totally relaxed but not at all sleepy.

Right from your first steps along the pavement, you’ll feel a new ease in your movement, you’ll feel good about yourself, and in total possession of your physical and mental capacities. Pure happiness!

How much a Thai massage will set you back

Depending on the type and length of the massage, the cost per massage will be more or less:

Thai foot massage: £30-£120
Thai therapeutic massage (full body or localised): £30-£120
Thai pregnancy massage: £60-£95
Thai localised aromatherapy massage: £30-£95

Do note that many massage centres offer discounts if you book in for a series of massages, and some in-home massage therapists offer cheaper rates.

Before you book in for any massage, do your research to ensure that the masseurs are
trained, qualified therapists -
particularly if you're pregnant, or using massage for therapeutic reasons.