Traditional massages from Thailand have been practiced for over 2,000 years, with Europe discovering their magic much earlier. Classic Thai massages are based on the theory that there are 10 energy lines along the human body. By massaging certain points along these lines, a person releases his blocked vital energy so that it can circulate freely throughout his body, thus restoring the balance between himself, his mind and his soul. Believe it or not, the combination of Thai herbs and techniques from folk medicine and Indian Ayurveda definitely has a beneficial effect on a person's overall health and makes them feel better mentally and emotionally.
Traditional folk Thai massages
Most types of Thai massage are performed on a mat on the floor. The massaged person is dressed in loose, light, comfortable clothes. The massage therapist uses hands, thumbs, palms, elbows, knees and feet during the procedure. With slow and rhythmic movements, he manages to unblock critical points in the body and give way to vital energy. This type of massage involves a specific massaging rhythm, deep stretching, gentle rotation and calm, deep breathing. If you regularly go to Thai spa treatments or Thai massages, you will surely learn to control your breathing. This is especially beneficial for your nervous system and your ability to focus.
Traditional Royal Thai Massage
This type of Thai massage was only given to members of the royal family and certain aristocrats. In terms of technique, it is very similar to folk Thai massages – its focus is on the ten energy lines in the human body. The difference is in the specific attitude towards the patient, the great respect shown to him. The massage therapist approaches him on his hands and knees and uses only his hands and fingers to unblock the important points along the energy lines.
Thai massage styles
Currently, two varieties of classic massages from Thailand are mainly used in the world. They differ in the way different energy points are treated:
• The southern type of Thai massages, which are a little more aggressive and in which the massage therapist tries to attack the points directly and solve the problem.
• Northern type are closer to traditional folk Thai massages. With them, the pressure on the energy lines is smoother and more gradual.
All Thai massages usually start from the feet and end with the head and face. A session can last from 90 minutes to two hours.
Thai foot reflexology
As with other types of Thai massage, the work of the massage therapist focuses on the energy lines and unblocking the flow of energy. He massages certain points on the feet so as to restore the inner harmony of the patient and relieve pain in specific parts of the body and internal organs.
A Thai foot massage is performed independently of the body massage and can last up to 1 hour.
Herbal Thai massages
This type of massage from Thailand combines warm herbal compresses with ancient massage techniques. The bouquet of herbs is steamed and then the body is gently rubbed with it. Next comes the unlocking of the energy points. Herbs usually include ginger, eucalyptus, lemongrass, turmeric, camphor, etc.