The Science Of Thai Massage: How It Boosts Your Well-Being
The ancient art of Thai massage is rooted in thousands of years’ worth of proven Chinese, Indian, and Thai medicinal practices. Incorporating Thai massage into your health and well-being practices provides multiple, long-lasting benefits.
Scientific study of Thai and other massage modalities proves that regular massages:
- Relieve back, neck, and shoulder pain.
- Reduce or eliminate chronic pain.
- Support disease management.
- Promote relaxation.
- Improve sleep cycles.
- Restore energy.
- Relieve and reduce incidences of headaches and migraines.
- And so much more.
The Proven Benefits And Science Of Thai Massage
The term well-being is used everywhere these days, but what does it really mean? And how do we know Thai massage techniques have any role in a person’s well-being?
An article published by Boston University describes well-being as feeling “...balanced and well in all areas of your life….regardless of ups and downs. It’s about how you feel.” Three of the foundational categories affecting a person’s sense of well-being are:
- Physical health.
- Emotional health.
- Spiritual health.
All of these are connected, and when one is out of balance, the rest will soon follow.
Customized Thai massage sessions nourish and strengthen all three of these areas, address underlying concerns, and integrate healing into other aspects of life.
Physical health & well-being
In most cases, we meet first-time Thai massage clients due to physical issues affecting how they feel. This is because scientific studies have proven that the passive and active movements involved in Thai massages (acupressure, rubbing, stretching, pulling, rocking, etc.) can:
- Reduce chronic pain (ScienceDirect)
- Support injuries in healing faster and stronger, especially for athletes or those who experience injuries resulting from muscle fatigue, joint issues related to repetitive motions/strain injuries, and injuries involving connective tissue where boosting circulation is essential (ScienceDirect).
- Reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for seniors who are the most likely to suffer from osteoarthritis and other health conditions where hyperinflammation is a key player.
- Boost the immune system. The same study proving the benefits of Thai massage for inflammation also showed that senior participants in the study experienced improved immune system function.
- Detox the body. Another point worth noting is that the improved circulation, movement of lymph fluid, and oxygenation associated with Thai massage techniques also support the body’s natural detoxification process. By moving toxins (some of which may have been held by the body for long periods of time), clients experience better energy levels and feelings of general well-being.
When people have safely managed their pain, have support healing from their injuries, and have the added benefit of an improved immune system, they typically report feeling healthier and happier in general.
Emotional and mental health & well-being
Massage has long been known to reduce stress and increase relaxation. Both are foundations for emotional well-being. Western science now recognizes that increased stress elevates cortisol production (a stress hormone), which is toxic and linked to chronic health conditions.
Adrenal fatigue is also associated with increased chronic inflammation, a root cause and exacerbation of some of the most common health conditions. Similarly, those who experience chronic stress have a harder time sleeping well, which depletes them further.
Incorporating Thai massage into your routine is a wonderful way to reset your stress balance, breathe deep, and detox. Your Thai massage therapist can also help you learn breathing and stretching routines that you can use anytime—at home, in the office, at stressful meetings, in the car, or wherever you notice feelings of anxiety or worry.
In this way, you take your Thai massage techniques “off the mat” and into daily life, a wonderful way to promote more holistic health and mental/emotional stability.
Connect with your spiritual nature
Many people are surprised to learn that Thai massages often begin with a prayer or a short meditation. Sometimes, practitioners pray by themselves before meeting and working with a client. Other times, depending on a client’s openness and interest, we may do it in their presence as well.
Thai massage is rooted in ancient Yoga traditions, which include the universal spiritual practices of calming the mind/heart, meditation, loving-kindness, and compassion—all of which we focus on when working with a client.
Multiple studies correlate a person’s sense of spirituality (regardless of their beliefs) and their sense of well-being. Even things like a presence or mindfulness practice, deepening our connectedness with others and nature, and serving others in need can be considered aspects of a human being’s spirituality. Your Thai massage practice is easily incorporated into the spiritual realm, which furthers the nourishing and healing benefits clients experience.
Tips For Supporting Well-Being Using Thai Massage
The following are tips on how to get the most out of your Thai massages, so you reap all the well-being benefits.
Only schedule appointments with certified Thai massage therapists
We appreciate that many Swedish massage therapists incorporate Thai massage techniques into their sessions. However, clients optimize their benefits when they seek practitioners specifically trained and certified in Thai massage.
Be prepared for your massage session
Clients attending Thai massage therapy sessions should:
- Eat a light, nourishing meal at least two hours before their massage (massages do not feel as good or work as well on a full stomach).
- Wear comfortable, flexible clothes (like you would to a yoga class or to work out in the gym).
- Be completely honest with your therapist about your current health/medical status, areas of concern, and lifestyle so we can tailor your massage accordingly.
- Arrive early rather than “on time” for your appointment so you can enjoy every minute of your allotted session time.
Don’t be afraid to provide feedback
Massage is never a “no pain, no gain” scenario. Your comfort is essential to reap the ultimate benefits of your session. Always provide honest feedback if you are feeling pain or discomfort or if there is a particular action or technique you don’t like.
Yes, sometimes it “hurts so good” when a therapist works on tight muscle bundles and pinched nerves, or when we begin massaging or stretching a chronically inflamed area. Clients may experience an emotional response when the massage increases energetic flow, as long-held tension and emotions are released. This is all normal, but our therapists always want to honor your feelings of safety and comfort, so please be honest and let us know if/when you’re not feeling safe or comfortable.
Boost Your Well-Being With A Thai Massage At Chetawan
The Chetawan Thai Therapeutic Massage Sanctuary is a respite for all those who seek to restore balance and overall well-being. Schedule a Thai massage with us and learn why this massage form has continued to be a favorite around the globe for more than three thousand years!