How is Thai Massage Different From A ‘Regular’ Massage?

7/27/2014

Thai yoga massage by Myriam Desrosiers, LMT

What is Thai Yoga Massage?

This type of bodywork involves opening the body’s energy lines through a combination of rhythmic compression, soft-tissue manipulation, acupressure and stretching. It is referred to as Thai Yoga Massage because the therapist will move you through series of yoga-like stretches. Thai Yoga Massage is felt as both relaxing and energizing as it includes deep muscular and energetic work along with movement.

How is Thai Massage different from a ‘Regular’ Massage?

A Thai Yoga Massage session differs from a Swedish massage in that it is conducted on a thick cushion on the floor and the client remains fully clothed in loose pants/shorts and a comfortable shirt. A session consists of dynamic and fluid combination of techniques that move, stretch and twist the client while they are positioned on their back, front, side and sitting cross-legged on the floor.

How can Thai Yoga Massage help me?

Athletes

Athletes love Thai Yoga Massage because it helps keep them flexible and mobile. The range of motion and joint mobility work helps to stretch tight muscles while deep pressure on the muscles helps to release muscular holding patterns. This style of work does an amazing job of stretching out tight IT bands, hamstrings and provides great spinal range of motion.

Injured clients

Thai Yoga Massage can help support you thru an injury. Because it’s passive, you can completely relax and allow the practitioner to move you in supported, healthy ways…allowing your structure and muscles to release and unwind. It’s great for back or neck pain.

Benefits of Thai Yoga Massage

increases joint mobility and improves range of motion
relieves and prevents acute and chronic pain patterns
mobilizes stiffness and increases flexibility
relaxes tendons and enhances elasticity
improves muscle strength and effectiveness
removes toxins from muscle
improves circulation of blood and lymph
induces a relaxed, meditative state
reduces stress
increases energy

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Author

Myriam has been a massage therapist since 2001 and since then worked with many clients including professional athletes. She was one of the therapists for the Rally cycling team and the Canadian National cycling team. Along with working at her private practice, she also had the privilege to travel the world doing what she loves.

Myriam's speciality is therapeutic and sport massage but she also offers a variety of techniques from relaxation, essential oil massage and myofascial release. She is also a certified cupping therapist.