Thai Massage was developed 2500 years ago, essentially from the Indian Ayurvedic and Yogic traditions. It is performed on a mat on the floor on which the client is lying or sitting, and the client remains fully clothed throughout the treatment. There are hundreds of techniques which may be used but most of them involve palming (placing the palms on the client's body and smoothly pressing or rolling the flesh), thumbing (in particular the body's energy lines or 'sen'), application of pressure on specific crucial points on the body, and gentle stretching and manipulation (for this reason it is sometimes called 'Lazy Man's Yoga'). It combines elements of yoga, shiatsu and acupressure, working with the energy pathways of the body and the therapy points that are located along these lines.

It helps to wear loose and/or flexible clothing for the massage, especially below the waist, as parts of the massage involve manipulation of the legs. (No Jeans please!). Nevertheless, do make sure that you will be warm enough, bearing in mind that you'll be very inactive for a long time. A warm jumper presents no impediment to the massage. It's also better to remove any hard items from hands, wrists, pockets etc. or you may feel discomfort when they are pressed into your skin.

It's important to be aware of any injuries or susceptibilities and discuss them before the massage. Conditions such as hyper mobility, wound or injuries, diabetes and scoliosis are relevant, as are bruises, cuts, burns, susceptibility to cramp etc. Amazingly sometimes people even forget to mention sprained joints, slipped discs and pregnancy!

Typical conditions

Traditional Thai massage can help to relieve many physical problems and is commonly used to treat:

• back pain
• tense shoulders and neck,
• stiffness,
• poor posture,
• indigestion and
• sciatica
• stress
• lethargy.

Many people find that Thai massage has the following benefits:

• relaxes
• reduces stress
• improves circulation
• increases energy
• increases flexibility
• improves range of motion
• centers the mind and body

FAQ's for Thai Massage

Is it safe?

Yes, it is perfectly safe, however Thai massage is not recommended for certain people. It may not be possible to have Thai massage if you suffer with any of the following.

• infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds

• immediately after surgery

• immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor

• prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage

• pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.

• massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Additional Tips

• Don’t eat a heavy meal before the massage

• If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

• Be sure that your massage therapist has your complete health history, because people with certain conditions should not have Thai massage.

• If you feel discomfort at any time, let your massage therapist know.

Traditional Thai Massage Therapist at the Centre

Anne Burrows

Other forms of Massage available

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy Facial Massage

Body Massage (general) Swedish

Hot Stone Massage

Indian Head Massage

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Sports Massage (Remedial Massage)

Traditional Thai Foot Massage

Other Related Therapies

Shiatsu (Acupressure Massage)

Reflexology