5 Reasons to try Thai massage if you don’t like Swedish or Deep Tissue massages


Swedish and Deep Tissue massages are great, but they’re not for everyone! Since I've started my practice in New Haven, I've started the only practice dedicated to Thai Massage in the city. But why might you consider trying a Thai massage if you don’t like other styles of massage?


  1. You don’t want to get undressed. This is so important if you are at all uncomfortable getting partially or fully undressed for a massage, even though you’d be modestly draped with a sheet and blanket. In Thai massage, you stay clothed the whole time. Just remember to wear loose or flexible clothing (like athletic pants) so you can move freely.

  2. You don’t want to feel oily afterwards. Often clients are returning to work or other activities after their appointment and don’t want the feeling of oil lingering on their skin or hair. Thai massage uses static pressure instead of gliding pressure over the skin, so there’s no need for oil.

  3. You want more assisted stretches. While there may be some stretching in Swedish and deep tissue massages, it is a huge part of Thai massage. Thai massage doesn’t simply aim to release tension in the muscles through pressure, but it uses stretching, joint movement, breathwork, AND pressure to restore the flow of energy in the body. 

  4. You want more options for how you position your body. A table massage can drag on forever if you are uncomfortable lying on your back or don’t like using the face cradle. Thai therapists regularly and easily move clients into side-lying and seated positions, place bolsters behind them in a semi-reclined pose, or offer various supports if they are uncomfortable lying face down. 

  5. You want more space for your body. Massage tables are limited by their size, and table extenders only help so much for people with taller or wider bodies (if the massage therapist has them). Thai mats, on the other hand, are large enough to accommodate any body size, and Thai therapists frequently use bolsters to make sure you stay comfortable and supported. 


What about you? Have you tried a Thai Massage? What do you like about Thai massage over Swedish or Deep Tissue? Check out my FAQs for more information!

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