Thai massage is new to modern treatment studios, but it is actually an ancient form of massage thought to have been developed by Buddhist monks in Thailand 2,500 years ago. It uses passive stretching and gentle pressure along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, relieve muscle and joint tension and balance the body’s energy systems.  

Because Thai massage is done fully clothed, some people recommend it if you feel uncomfortable with nudity.

Two Things to Keep in Mind

First, you're going to being lying on a mat with a therapist crouched over you, pressing on your legs, just to start. They might use the weight of their body to move your body into various positions to achieve passive stretching.

Second, a lot of what the therapist does is unusual and unexpected — you have to feel comfortable enough with bodywork that you can relax while they're doing it.

What Happens During a Thai Massage

Thai massage typically works with compression — rhythmic pressing movements directed into muscle tissues by either the hand or fingers. Thai massage usually takes place on a mat on the floor, with the client wearing loose or stretchy clothing like yoga gear.

The therapist is also on the mat and moves your body into various stretches and positions, without any work on your part. This is why it is sometimes called "lazy man's yoga". Thai massage can be both relaxing and energizing, so it is a good choice if you want to be active after your massage.

The therapist uses a variety of different sequences of techniques on clients, who are either laying face up, laying face down, seated, or on their side.

There is constant body contact between the therapist and the client, but rather than rubbing on muscles, the body is compressed, pulled, stretched and rocked.

Thai massage has its roots in a spiritual tradition, and its purpose is to heal a person physically, emotionally and spiritually.