Thai Massage: The Ancient Art of the Orient Comes to the South

If you are a massage devotee and appreciate the health benefits a Swedish or Sports massage offers, there is a new style of massage therapy that's gaining a following as far away as the deep South - Thai Massage.

Benefits of massage therapy

The benefits of massage therapy include stress management and reducing tension and anxiety. Massage calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being. And if that's not enough, massage stimulates the lymphatic system (which carries away the body's waste) and improves blood circulation.

If you engage in any type of rigorous exercise or sports activities, you already know that massage relieves muscles cramps and spasms. Additionally, massage therapy is used for pain management in some cases of arthritis and sciatica.

My experience with Thai Massage

I had the good fortune of visiting Thailand and was treated to a Thai Massage. Even though I appreciate the occasional massage and am an active yoga practitioner, I was not prepared for the experience.

Thai massage is very different from conventional massage. To begin with, Thai massage is conducted on a cushion on the floor, with various sized pillows used as props. The client is fully clothed (loose comfortable clothing is recommended). There are no oils or lotions and the massage therapist use hands, elbows, feet - actually their entire body - to locate and massage acupressure points. Active stretching, deep breathing and yoga are integral parts of Thai massage.

It's been reported that Thai massage is older than most forms of conventional massage; approximately 2,500 to 6,000 years old.

My gracious hosts insisted I experience a local Thai massage. I considered it an indulgence but was surprised to discover that massage therapy is not regarded as a special treat but as an important part of the culture in Thailand.

Thankfully, more and more Thai massage studios are making their way to the South. Wouldn't it be great if we considered massage therapy as necessary as taking a shower or brushing our teeth?

Contraindications for massage

* You shouldn't get massage if you have a fever, infections, inflammation, osteoporosis or other medical conditions.
* If you have an existing medical condition, speak to a massage therapist before you make an appointment.

Sources:
Author's personal experience
AboutSpas.com
Charleston.net

Related content from this contributor:
Doga: Practice Yoga with Your Dog
Holy Cow Yoga and Holistic Center in Charleston, SC
Vegetarians, Vegans and Hegans