Thai massage is an ancient healing system. It combines traditional Indian Ayurvedic principles, acupressure, and assisted yoga stretches and postures. Unlike many other forms of massage that use lotions and oils and muscles are rubbed by practitioners, Thai massage involves pulling, stretching, rocking, and compressing the body. The participant remains clothed during the massage, which typically takes place on a mat or very firm mattress. The health benefits of Thai massage have been practiced and enjoyed for more than 2,000 years.

Relief of Tension Headaches and Migraines

Many people who suffer from tension headaches or migraines find relief with Thai massage. One study reported massage could relax the sympathetic nervous system. If you suffer from these types of headaches chronically, talk to your healthcare provider about incorporating Thai massage into your treatment plan.

Stress Relief

Stress may be a common factor of life, but chronic stress is linked to the development of many health conditions from heart disease to clinical depression. Reducing stress is important to general wellbeing, and Thai massage can alleviate it.

Relief for Anxiety and Depression

Mental and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression are linked to profound psychological discomfort. Thai massage isn’t a cure for these conditions, but it can alleviate the symptoms. While people with these conditions often find relief in other forms of massage, as well, researchers believe Thai massage may be among the most effective massage techniques for improving mood parameters.

Improves Range of Motion

Stretching is a hallmark of Thai massage. Stretching and yoga poses can help improve the range of motion for individuals. The practitioner will help their client achieve the poses and stretches during the session. Thai massage practitioners are trained to understand pressure points and anatomy, which enables them to know where and how the body can be stretched for the best and most therapeutic results.

Supports Rehabilitation

Thai massage can aid rehabilitation from conditions like stroke. A stroke can be extremely debilitating and lead to reduced motor functionality. Thai massage can alleviate muscle stiffness and spasms, common symptoms faced by people recovering from a stroke. This form of massage can also improve mood and reduce pain, enhancing the long rehabilitation process.

Relieves Deep Muscle Tension

Many people experience deep muscle tension, which can be caused by anything from running to sitting all day at a desk. Whether or not you’re an athlete, you might benefit from Thai massage if you experience muscle tension. When muscles tense up, pain or discomfort can result from the simplest movements, and Thai massage can alleviate this.

Enhances Circulation

With its focus on movement, Thai massage promotes good blood circulation. Unlike other forms of massage, where the individual remains still, Thai massage requires participants to move. This movement forces the blood to circulate to other areas of the body. With improved blood circulation, people tend to feel and even look  healthier.

Increased Energy

With improved blood circulation, it’s not surprising that people often report feeling an improvement in energy levels after a Thai massage. Healthy circulation improves cell growth and organ functionality. With more oxygen, muscles and tissues heal faster. The result is a greater sense of energy.

Pain Relief

Various reports show Thai massage can alleviate pain. One study found receiving regular Thai massage sessions over a thirty-day period decreased the pain associated with chronic conditions such as scapulocostal syndrome. If you experience chronic pain, talk to your physician about introducing Thai massage into your pain management plan.

Improved Flexibility

Many people want to become more limber in order to enhance their athletic performance. Thai massage helps people improve their flexibility. Stretching leads to looser muscles and more limber joints. With multiple Thai massage sessions, many people notice improvements in their ability to stretch, which can improve performance and reduce the likelihood of injury.