Traditional Thai Massage
(Thai Yoga Therapy)
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What is Thai Massage?
Thai massage is an ancient form of healing bodywork which dates back 2,500 years. In a Thai massage session, pressure is applied along the body’s energy lines (Sen) using a combination of static and rhythmic pressure. The body is moved passively and actively into various yoga-like positions to stretch, lengthen and open bodily and energetic constrictions. Thai massage affects the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, bringing balance to the body, and is therapeutic on many levels.
Traditional Thai Massage also know as Thai Yoga Massage, Thai Bodywork or Thai Yoga Therapy originated in the East. Typically considered to be from Thailand, this unique massage modality also has origins that trace back to India, Burma, Laos and Cambodia.
What makes Thai Massage different from Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage (table massage)?
There are a few things that differentiate a Thai massage from massage that is typical to us in the West.
1. A Thai massage session is performed on a Thai futon, or padded mat placed on the floor instead of a typical massage table. This extra space provides room for greater range of motion for the client and practitioner, and allows the practitioner to effectively use feet, knees, and legs as tools for leverage and applying pressure. It also allows the client to be moved passively and actively into various positions facilitating deeper stretching and increasing mobility.
2. No oils are used (typically) in Thai massage work. Compression along the Sen or energy lines of the body along with facilitated stretching and rocking are the foundation of this therapeutic art.
3. Thai bodywork is done with the client and the practitioner fully clothed. A great alternative for those who prefer not to undress when receiving bodywork, or for those who dislike the use of oils.
What should I wear to my Thai Massage appointment?
Please wear comfortable clothing that is easy for you to move and stretch in, such as yoga clothes or sweat pants.
Do you use your feet on your clients?
Yes. While the feet are an integral part of Thai massage, the pressure used is applied with precision, and awareness of the clients comfort and tolerance. The feet are a diverse tool which utilize a broader and different shaped surface area than the hands, and using the feet allows the practitioner to apply and hold deeper pressure more effectively.
Who should receive Thai Massage?
Thai massage is an excellent option for anyone who would benefit from additional stretching, those who have restricted range of motion due to tight, stiff muscles, people who suffer from painful hips, low back and/or shoulders (people who sit at a desk for long hours), or anyone who just wants to relax and rejuvenate. Regular Thai yoga massage improves circulation and flexibility, and can dramatically increase end range mobility.
Who should not receive Thai Massage?
If you find basic movement of joints to be painful, or have an injury that is still in the acute phase (recently acquired, painful, inflamed, and/or hot to the touch) Thai massage is best avoided.
What does Sen mean?
The theoretical foundation of Thai massage is based on the concept of energy lines running through the body, similar to
Meridians in Acupuncture and other Eastern medicine philosophies. In Thai massage these energy lines are known as Sen lines,
Please wear comfortable clothing that is easy for you to move and stretch in, such as yoga clothes or sweat pants.
Do you use your feet on your clients?
Yes. While the feet are an integral part of Thai massage, the pressure used is applied with precision, and awareness of the clients comfort and tolerance. The feet are a diverse tool which utilize a broader and different shaped surface area than the hands, and using the feet allows the practitioner to apply and hold deeper pressure more effectively.
Who should receive Thai Massage?
Thai massage is an excellent option for anyone who would benefit from additional stretching, those who have restricted range of motion due to tight, stiff muscles, people who suffer from painful hips, low back and/or shoulders (people who sit at a desk for long hours), or anyone who just wants to relax and rejuvenate. Regular Thai yoga massage improves circulation and flexibility, and can dramatically increase end range mobility.
Who should not receive Thai Massage?
If you find basic movement of joints to be painful, or have an injury that is still in the acute phase (recently acquired, painful, inflamed, and/or hot to the touch) Thai massage is best avoided.
What does Sen mean?
The theoretical foundation of Thai massage is based on the concept of energy lines running through the body, similar to
Meridians in Acupuncture and other Eastern medicine philosophies. In Thai massage these energy lines are known as Sen lines,
What else should I know about Thai Yoga Therapy?
For your comfort, please avoid large meals 2 hours prior to the start of your session. Increasing water intake after your session is also recommended.
How do I book a session?
Click here to schedule your massage session or call 206-802-8560.
What is your cancellation policy?.
$50 fee for no shows or late cancellations (24 hours notice to cancel).
Late arrivals - arriving late for a service may require shortening the length of the treatment.
For your comfort, please avoid large meals 2 hours prior to the start of your session. Increasing water intake after your session is also recommended.
How do I book a session?
Click here to schedule your massage session or call 206-802-8560.
What is your cancellation policy?.
$50 fee for no shows or late cancellations (24 hours notice to cancel).
Late arrivals - arriving late for a service may require shortening the length of the treatment.