Thinking about Getting a Thai Massage?

lincoln nh massage thaiThere are many different types of massages. One of the lesser known types is the Thai massage, also called the Thai Yoga massage. It is so named because it is part massage and part yoga, and has also been defined as doing yoga with all the work removed.
Thai massage is an ancient system of healing that combines assisted yoga postures, acupressure, and Indian Ayurvedic precepts. It was originally developed by Jivaka Kumar Bhacca, an Indian doctor of Ayurvedic medicine noted for his amazing medical skills. He is reputed to have treated the Buddha himself.
Thai massage as it is practiced today combines the influences of Southeastern Asia, India, and Chinese in a synthesized healing modality that offers recipients a unique opportunity.
What a Thai massage is like
From its beginnings over 2,500 years ago in India, the Thai massage made its way to Thailand, and was for many years only performed by monks. It is a very energizing and rigorous form of massage.
In Thai massage, the recipient of the massage remains clothed in loose and comfortable clothing, and no oils or lotions are used. Instead of rubbing the muscles, the massage therapist compresses, pulls, stretches and rocks the recipient’s body with his or her hands, feet, legs, and knees to move the recipient into a series of yoga-like poses.
While this is going on, the recipient is lying on a mat or thin mattress on the floor. During the massage there is a definite rhythm to the movements, and there is constant body contact between the therapist and the recipient. The complete Thai massage lasts around two hours, and there is rhythmic pulling and stretching of the recipient’s body during this time.
As the recipient’s body is moved into the different yoga like poses, the massage therapist is also busy pulling the recipient’s fingers, toes and ears, cracking the knuckles, and walking on the recipient’s back.
Benefits reported by Thai massage recipients
While Thai massage is not for everyone, the people who enjoy it describe the following benefits from receiving it:
• They feel more relaxed afterward.
• Their stress levels are reduced.
• Many feel their circulation has improved.
• They have more flexibility and range of motion than before the massage.
• Almost all report feeling more energetic.
• The massage has a centering effect on their minds.
Thai massage therapy recommendations
1. Check with your doctor before getting a Thai massage to see if you are up to the strenuous nature of the massage.
2. If you must eat before the massage, make it a light meal.
3. Make sure your massage therapist knows your entire medical history.
4. Tell the massage therapist immediately if you are uncomfortable with any of the moves.
Thai massage is perfect for someone who has trouble making time for both yoga and a massage. With the series of postures the Thai massage therapist uses, the recipient can get in a yoga workout while at the same time enjoying the relaxation and mental focusing provided by a traditional massage.

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