Most of the friends who travel to Thailand will experience Thai massage, which is what we often call “Nuad Thai”. As a world-renowned traditional technique, Thai massage has existed for 2,500 years. The original method was A form of healing in India, heavily influenced by Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine.
In fact, as early as December 2019, traditional Thai massage (Nuad Thai) was listed as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. This is the second honorary project to be included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List after Thailand’s “Kong” mask dance drama in 2018. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is very proud of this.
Mr. Yutasak, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand, said: “Nuat Thai massage is one of many cultural experiences that tourists from all over the world can enjoy in Thailand. If they choose, they can also learn this in Thailand. The art of traditional therapy, and hopefully learning how to master it.”
Whether it’s a high-end spa in Bangkok, a beach in Phuket, or a humble street salon, Thai massages are ubiquitous throughout Thailand, and an hour’s massage typically costs less than $10. Although we have all enjoyed a Thai massage, many people don’t know what it’s really good for. Let’s take a look at what exactly it is!
Benefits of Thai Massage: Senses
Thai massage focuses more on the flow of energy or chi throughout the body, which is more in line with the Asian art of healing.
Energy or qi is thought to move through the body along pathways called senses (singular sen).
The senses correspond to different parts of the body, such as bones, muscles, blood, and nerves.
The senses that affect the mind and consciousness are seen as more subtle channels.
One of the reasons Thai massage focuses on the senses is because practitioners believe that tight muscles can cause all kinds of blockages.
These blockages are thought to reduce the flow of vital energy, which can lead to stiffness and disease.
Thai massage therapists use different techniques to open up movements to correct bodily functions.
Scientific research proves the benefits of Thai massage
While people may think that Thai massage does not repair the body, scientific research shows this to be incorrect, as pain has been known to go away with this treatment.
Thai massage has been successful in treating health problems such as migraines, back pain and joint pain.
In addition, the researchers concluded that this non-drug treatment benefit can relieve symptoms for up to 15 weeks.
The benefits of Thai massage for blood circulation
The researchers also noted that Thai massage can improve flexibility because it improves blood circulation and delivers oxygen to the muscles.
Thai massage promotes blood and lymphatic circulation through gentle stretching.
Increased blood circulation helps oxygenate body tissues.
This is what promotes cell growth and a healthy heart.
Better blood circulation is known to stimulate the somatosensory system.
This system plays an important role in balance.
Thai Massage Against Anxiety
For those suffering from anxiety disorders, Thai massage can reduce anxiety while providing a sense of calm and relaxation.
Research has shown that people who receive massage score lower on psychological stress assessments.
Brain scans also showed the same results, beating even traditional forms of physical therapy for anxiety.
A 2015 study also found that Thai massage significantly reduced levels of a stress marker in saliva called sAA (saliva alpha-amylase).
Rejuvenating Massage
Because Thai massage includes yoga-like stretches, recipients often report feeling rejuvenated and energized.
A small study found that between Thai and Swedish massage, Thai massage made people feel more energized and refreshed. However, the study’s researchers say more research is needed before concrete conclusions can be drawn.
In traditional Thai massage, practitioners use their hands, thumbs, elbows, forearms, and sometimes even their feet to relieve muscle tension.
The masseuse can even sit on you and help you stretch in certain positions.
In the case of Thai massage, the recipient also has to do some work, as this is a more intense stretch.
This method differs from that used in Swedish massage in that it involves oil and deep kneading while the recipient is still lying down.
After a Thai massage, a person may feel very relaxed, but it is important to note that the muscles have been stretched, exercised and stimulated. After a Thai massage, a person should rest and drink plenty of water.
Want to experience Thai massage at home? Potent massage chairs can provide you with massage services that you can experience at home without going out.