Thailand is renowned for its traditional massage treatments, which often last two hours or more. However, in London, the demand for such long treatments is low, and most therapists offer 30- to 90-minute sessions. There are no set guidelines for how often a person should receive a Thai massage, but it is recommended that people incorporate daily maintenance routines that include stretching and relaxation techniques. This will help them stay flexible for a long time after the massage. If you suffer from migraines or tension headaches, traditional Thai massage can be an effective way to ease symptoms.
While traditionally Thai massages last two hours, one-hour sessions are also available. This type of massage uses gentle kneading movements to release tension in the body. It is more expensive than other techniques, but it is quite effective. There is no limit to the number of massages you should receive. Whenever you need to relax or treat chronic pain, you can get a Thai massage and your body will thank you.
The frequency of massages depends on your general health and physical condition. After receiving the massage, your therapist will give you recommendations on how often you should receive the massage and which areas should receive the most attention. Some clients may need to receive a massage weekly or every other week to help relieve pain or focus on problem areas. However, those without physical problems should receive a massage at least once a month to reduce tension, stiffness, stress and prevent problems before they occur. An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. It is much easier for therapists to help prevent a problem than it is to fix it.
It is never too early to make changes that benefit your health, such as eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep and getting regular massages. To give you an idea of what to expect from a traditional Thai full body massage, here is a step-by-step guide. In several small studies with patients with chronic headaches, researchers found that Thai massage reduced the intensity of migraines and tension headaches. If you are looking to reduce stress and relax tense muscles, once a month is a good recommendation. Many people believe that the health benefits of Thai massage include reducing stress, increasing energy and improving sports performance. Depending on the severity of your condition, your massage therapist will come up with the best plan for you.
In one study, half of the test group received treatment with Thai massage while the rest received other conservative management techniques such as joint mobilization (a technique that involves applying pressure), hot compresses and manual stretching to sore areas. During most of the massages I received on my trip to Thailand, I wore loose clothing provided by the spa instead of going completely naked like I do during deep tissue massages. We found that monthly massages work well for those dealing with the general tension and stress of daily trips to work and desk work. After my session I felt looser, freer and seriously stretched - my only regret was not trying Thai massage sooner. In traditional Thai massage, practitioners use their hands, thumbs, elbows, forearms and sometimes even feet to reduce tension in the muscles. If you visit Bangkok every year there are massage rooms on every corner with varying prices.
Thai massage also uses energy which involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to open channels that will improve energy flow throughout the body. I'm in several travel groups on Facebook and I've read horror stories about therapists taking pictures, talking aloud and gawking at clients during their foot massage. A randomized trial examined the effects of Thai and Swedish massages on people experiencing fatigue. Thai massage uses different techniques that open or restrict different Sen (energy lines) to correct energy flow throughout the body. If you are looking for an effective way to reduce stress and relax tense muscles then traditional Thai massage may be just what you need.
