The most common massage that Americans receive is a traditional Swedish style where the client gets undressed and lies, covered, on a special padded table.  Most massage goers have never experienced a massage where they dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and lie on top of a futon mat on the floor.   One such style, Thai massage, is an interactive manipulation of the body using passive stretching and gentle pressure along multiple energy pathways.

The founder of Thai massage was Shivago Komarpaj who is described in the Pali Buddhist canon to have been the Buddha’s physician over 2,500 years ago. This type of massage has been practiced in America only since the 1990s. The movements are designed to adjust the skeletal structure, increase flexibility, relieve muscular and joint tension, stimulate internal organs while balancing the body’s energy system. The effect is uniquely relaxing as well as energizing. Many clients have said that getting a Thai massage is like doing yoga with a lot less effort!

Thai massage typically works with rhythmic pressing movements directed into muscle tissues. It uses no oils or lotions and does not incorporate the smooth strokes of Swedish massage. Instead, specially trained therapists maintain constant contact with the client by applying gentle pressure with both their hands and feet while stretching the client’s body. During the massage, the client is laying face up or down, seated, or on their side.

Specific benefits of Thai massage can include:

• Relief of tension headaches
• Reduced sub-acute and chronic nonspecific back pain
• Increased flexibility and range of motion
• Stimulation of the body’s circulation and lymphatic systems
• A calming of the nervous system

It is recommended to schedule a Thai Massage only with a specially trained, certified therapist.  At Urban Oasis, please ask for either Allison or Jose at Maple Street or Janna, Jorge, Lonie, Olly, Rebecca C or Rudy when booking but, first, read their bios.  To schedule a Thai, or any other massage, click here to contact us.