Thai Massage

relax, release & let go

Thai Massage…

Thai MassageEach day at Samui Detox, you will have the opportunity to experience a 60 minute Thai Massage (included as part of your program package):

Traditional Thai massage is an ancient form of healing believed to originate from the time of Buddha. Thai massage techniques differ from the scooping strokes of Western massage; it is described by some as a kind of passive yoga. The Thai method uses two primary procedures – applying deep, consistent pressure to specific nerves, tendons and ligaments, and a wide variety of passive stretching movements manipulating the skeleton in order to balance the functions of the body.

The theoretical basis of traditional Thai massage lies in the theory of energy lines running through the body. Out of the 72 000 energy lines said to be in existence, the focus is on 10 major lines. Working on important acupressure points along these energy lines helps to remove blockages which allows free flow of energy through the body, balancing the body’s energy system. Thai massage techniques display a knowledge of the inner workings of the body which has developed over centuries of practice. In Thai massage it is not just the hands that are used but also the therapist’s feet, forearms, knees and elbows.

Traditional Thai massage is applied fully clothed and no oils are required. The effect of Thai massage is uniquely relaxing as well as energizing. The body regains flexibility and ease of movement, and the quiet meditative atmosphere gently promotes a calm alertness. Tension and toxic material is released from the joints, muscles and connective tissue. The movements also help to adjust the skeletal structure, relieve muscular and joint tension, and stimulate the internal organs.

Our highly skilled masseuses tailor their massage to meet each individual’s requirements. Without words to prompt them, their hands can read and interpret what your body needs!

Benefits of Thai Massage

  • Detoxifies the body and boosts the immune system.
  • Increases blood circulation and lowers blood pressure.
  • Increases flexibility and mobility.
  • Improves posture, balance, corrects body alignments and including chronic joint problems.
  • Clears and calms your mind, helping you gain mental clarity
  • Reduces and relieves stress, tension and anxiety.

What happens?

You lie on our massage table fully clothed except for shoes and socks! The practitioner uses thumbs, palms, forearms, elbows, feet, knees and even shins to press and stretch your body. Thais believe that good health and freedom from pain result from the unhindered flow of vital energies through the body’s tissues.

What does it do?

Foot MassageThai people have long recognised that most muscular-skeletal pain and lack of mobility of the joints is the result of muscles shortening under the influence of repetitive strain.

The pressing techniques of Thai massage prepare muscles for stretching by increasing their permeability to the flow of energy. The manipulations are designed to stretch the muscles a little more than would be possible unaided.

Tension and spasm in a muscle are the result of a vicious circle of events involving the muscle and its sense organs; those muscles that are antagonistic to it and the brain.

The more tense the muscle is, the shorter it gets, and the brain interprets this as contraction, so inhibiting the function of the antagonistic muscles, which weaken as a result.

Regular Thai massage stretches the muscles back to their normal resting length, which deceives the brain into ‘thinking’ that all is well and it stops inhibiting the antagonists. Before long, tension disappears and joint mobility is restored.

Muscles are the masseur’s ultimate target but fibrotic connective tissue and weak circulation are also treated during the massage.

How does it feel?

Thai MassageDifferent from other forms of bodywork – smoothness, rhythm and flow are three words that come to mind.

Nothing is hurried; there are no sudden changes of rhythm or speed. Every technique melts into the next with total economy of motion; it looks like a beautifully choreographed performance.

First time recipients of the massage react differently; some find the pressing techniques – particularly those done with the thumb – a little uncomfortable; others are shocked at the degree of stretching their stiff body can achieve.

Almost all feel relaxed, refreshed and much more flexible afterwards, and those who have regular Thai massage come to enjoy the deep pressure techniques and spectacular manipulations.

And the effects …

Thai MassageThere are many, all of them positive as the massage is applied expertly, including; relief from constipation, IBS, headaches, sciatica, back and neck pain.

For the Thais this is not surprising. They regard balance and unimpeded flow of energy as vital for good health. A good Thai massage achieves this and can correct emotional problems as well as physical ones!