Top Three Thai Massage Myths

Have you ever wanted to try a Thai massage but been put off because you’re not sure what to expect? An effective Thai massage can be invigorating and energetic, and, indeed, this massage style is often very different from a traditional Swedish massage. Here are the top three busted Thai massage myths we’ve come across. Again, they aren’t true at all!

Busted

Myth #1: You need to be flexible to have a Thai massage

Some people say that Thai massage is ‘yoga without the effort.’ And yes, there is definitely a lot of stretching involved. But there’s no need to worry because you really won’t have to contort yourself into vast numbers of unusual poses. Or you don’t need to have the flexibility of a Yogi to enjoy a great Thai massage.

Most authentic Thai massages use many techniques. These techniques include working on your muscles and putting pressure onto acupressure points along your body. The stretches incorporated into your massage will be gentle, and your therapist will assess you before you start. Remember that the massage therapist won’t stretch you any more than you feel comfortable with. If you feel any discomfort at any point, say so, and the therapist will change techniques.

Myth #2: Thai Massage is painful

You might have heard people exclaiming about how painful a Thai massage was or how sore they are afterward – it doesn’t have to be that way! A professional therapist will never leave you in pain. There may be an element of discomfort in a Thai massage, just like that feeling you get when a massage therapist hits you right on a muscle knot…it’s uncomfortable, but you know you’ll feel wonderful when she’s ironed it; out!

The same applies to a Thai massage session. Stretches don’t need to hurt – if you’re not very flexible, make sure that you tell your therapist to go easy on the stretches. Thai massage therapists can sometimes use their knees, elbows, and feet to pressure some areas of your body during a treatment. These moves can be uncomfortable if your therapist isn’t trained to read your responses and tone down the necessary pressure. Still, as long as you use a reputable professional therapist, you should be wonderful.

Just ask your therapist to change the pressure if you feel it’s getting too much; she’ll always be happy to accommodate you, as a massage is supposed to be a positive experience. Don’t feel that you have to grit your teeth.

Myth #3: Thai Massage is seedy or erotic

This is the enduring myth, and for some reason, Thai massage is more likely than many other types of massage to be associated with the dreaded “Happy Ending.”

Although some massage places gladly offer this extra, a traditional Thai massage is no more erotic than a Swedish massage. Just make sure that you opt for a reputable massage center or spa, and you’ll be fine.

Want to experience a real Thai massage? Ameer, one of our certified massage therapists, offers Thai massage as one of his expertise. Call us now or book online to reserve your scheduled massage treatment.

Brilliant Massage & Skin

Burlington, Vermont