First-timers just getting to know Thai massage may indeed be pleasantly surprised, but there are a number of specific differences between Thai massage techniques and those garden variety deep tissue massage variants practiced traditionally by western massage therapists. Many of these will be immediately noticeable, and a few may be downright surprising, yet as you allow the massage to wash over you, you’ll discover the very good reasons they exist.
The primary difference between the classic western styles of massage and the Thai approach is the lack of equipment – whereas deep tissue and Swedish massages are applied atop a massage table, Thai massages are enjoyed on a floor mat. In turn, the recipient experiences a more comfortable range of motion, which definitely comes in handy; contrary to massage styles of the western type, you won’t find yourself just lying on your stomach or back when you receive a Thai treatment.
Indeed, some of the therapeutic principles used in the Thai tradition are similar to those of deep tissue or Swedish massage, though other methods may be utilized to achieve them. What do we mean by this? Well, take, for example, the cases in which a Thai massage specialist will stand atop a recipient’s back; in this instance, pliant feet are used in place of stiffened forearms top knead back muscles. Conversely, Thai masseuses sometimes utilize their knees to stabilize the recipient’s hips while the arms are pulled to stretch the upper body – a technique that would be risky, if not impossible, for a masseuse to achieve when working on a massage table of a classical type.
Thai massage is best for people who want a more active form of massage and wish to fulfill a desire to reduce and relieve pain and stress. It can also improve:
• Flexibility
• Circulation
• Energy levels
In summary, Thai massage is more active than other forms, including deep tissue, enabling a therapist to stretch your body in addition to providing the actual massage.
To learn more about how Thai massage can help you, reach out to Thai Massage Albuquerque at (505) 235-8032.
