If you’ve been thinking about getting a massage, then you have probably also done some research on the different types. While in the past, things may have been as easy as saying that you need a massage and finding a professional that does them, we cannot deny the fact that this has gotten a bit more complicated today. Why, though? Because there are different types to consider, all with their own benefits and advantages, meaning that you need to find something that works for you specifically, and that you will enjoy.
Perhaps you should read more about the Thai one: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20200707-the-birthplace-of-traditional-thai-massage
Now, clearly, there are numerous types that you can get nowadays. Some are, of course, more popular than others. Thai massage and Swedish massage, however, really stand out today, being among the most popular types. And, if you’ve done any research whatsoever, you have surely come across these two already.
What you want to do next, though, is figure out what the difference between these two actually is, so that you can choose the right option for you. And, that is exactly what we will help you out with. To cut right to the chase, below I will explain what it is that you can expect from a Thai massage and from a Swedish massage respectively, thus giving you a clearer idea on the differences and helping you understand which one may be best for you. So, without any further ado, let us get started.
What to Expect From a Thai Massage?
As you probably already know, a Thai massage has its origins in India, and it has been developed over 2 millennia ago, earning the status of an ancient practice. It combines physical therapy with some spiritual healing practices, and it is often known as “lazy man’s yoga”, given that it features some passive yoga-like positions, as well as some dynamic stretching. What can you expect from it, though, if you decide to book it?
Instead of being performed on a table, like you would expect, Thai massage is actually performed on a mat on the floor. You have to be comfortably clothed in order to be able to do the movements and thus get the most out of this technique. And, another thing to know is that no lotions or oils are used in this particular practice. The practitioner, instead, relies on his or her hands, elbows, knees, thumbs, and even feet to apply the necessary rhythmic pressure, as well as acupressure and compression techniques along your body’s energy lines.
It mainly consists of, clearly, active, assisted stretching. You can expect to be moved through different yoga-like poses, and that should improve your mobility and flexibility. Traditional Thai massage, as talked about here, uses slow and controlled movements that have been designed specifically to create a healing experience for you.
There are, of course, a lot of benefits of this particular method. For one thing, it can improve your flexibility and the range of motion of your joints. Then, it can also offer relief from muscle tension and stiffness, all while boosting your energy and vitality. Furthermore, it can reduce stress and offer some mental clarity, as well as offer relief from back pain and headaches, and even improve your circulation. So, it is both active and relaxing, offering the best of both worlds, which makes it particularly popular with people who are leading an active lifestyle.
What to Expect From a Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage, as you may have guessed it, originated in Europe, and it is a much more modern practice, so to speak. It focuses on your muscles, your joints and your circulation specifically, and it is thought of as the foundation of the modern Western massage therapy. The idea behind this practice is to relax your overall body and promote your wellbeing through systematic manipulation of the soft tissues, and flowing and gentle strokes.
What can you, therefore, expect if you decide to go for this particular solution? First of all, it is usually performed on a table, and the client has to be undressed, with, of course, appropriate covering being used for additional comfort and privacy. To make the strokes across the skins easier and more effective, lotions and oils are used during this massage therapy session. Instead of focusing on stretching, such as the Thai massage, this one focuses on soft tissues manipulation, allowing you to relax and get the great benefits without having to really do anything.
This particular method also has a lot of amazing benefits. For one thing, it promotes relaxation and helps you reduce overall stress. Then, it improves the blood flow, as well as the oxygen delivery to the tissues, which is also extremely beneficial. Of course, it focuses on tension relief and muscle recovery, helping you get rid of muscle pain, while also reducing anxiety symptoms and thus promoting better quality sleep. People recovering from injuries, as well as first-time clients, often go for this particular method, as it is more passive, while also extremely beneficial for their muscles, joints, and their overall wellbeing.
Which One to Go for?
Now that you understand the differences between these two methods, you are most likely wondering which one may be right for you. And, the truth is that both can be extremely useful, so your choice will depend on your goals and your preferences. The best thing to do would be to, of course, find providers that offer both of these options, for which you can check out Golden Thai Massages and similar places, and then let them propose the right course of action for you. The experts will definitely be able to recommend the perfect type.
Of course, you can come to some conclusions all on your own as well. If you prefer more active sessions that focus on your mobility and flexibility, you should go for the Thai massage. On the other hand, if you’re recovering from an injury, or you basically want a more passive approach that will also have a highly beneficial impact on your wellbeing, you should go for the Swedish one. In the end, though, it is all up to you.
