The Very Real Benefits of an Oft-Stereotyped Modality.

I’m afraid that Thai Massage has not always been viewed as the relaxing, fully-clothed, reputable style of bodywork that it truly is. It would seem that someone out in there in the universe has allowed that very rare, sexual-favor-offering-brothel-calling-itself-a-spa to be the initial thought that someone has when “Thai Massage” is mentioned.

What Thai Massage really is can—and will—blow you.

Your mind, that is.

Although Thai Massage exhibits many influences, from the Indian Ayurvedic system to Chinese Medicine, Thai Massage originated in — yes, you guessed it — Thailand. Shivago Komarpaj, who’s said to be the founder of this massage modality, is also said in some legends to have been the personal physician to Buddha. So, as you can see, this is an ancient modality. Over centuries this form of massage developed in the Temples and medical communities and has been used to work on fishermen to prolong their ability to work hard for a family. It is now studied around the world and is quickly becoming a popular style of massage offered in spas and other wellness centers.

However, it seems that only a small percentage of people (mainly Yogis) have experienced the magic of this ancient form of bodywork. It’s time for that to change.

Everyone should have the pleasure of experiencing the deeply therapeutic benefits it has to offer. Here’s what to expect (so you don’t think you’re getting Swedish).

Thai Massage takes place on a futon-like mat, the receiver is fully clothed, and sessions include the use of heated Thai herbal compresses. Also known as “Lazy Man’s Yoga,” this massage includes some of your favorite Yoga postures. But instead of you doing the work and sinking into the posture, the therapist gives you a yummy assisted stretch such as pigeon. Also inserted into a session you’ll find: acupressure, reflexology, aromatherapy, meditation, and energy work. As if that doesn’t seal the deal, Thai Massage can also provide other advantages, from injury prevention to stress reduction.

So, what’s the difference between Thai Yoga Massage and Thai Massage? Nothing, really.

But we all love Yoga, right? Or at least we have jumped on that ever-popular bandwagon. What the name “Thai Yoga Massage” really does is give the receiver a better idea or mental image of what is going to take place and hopefully erases the images of a brothel. This massage has more than a happy ending, folks: it delivers feel-good, therapeutic pleasure throughout the entire session!

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Danielle Segobiano actually enjoys doing the dirty work that is required to be assistant to Director of a successful school! She works for Denver Integrative Massage School, is a Certified Yoga Teacher and has her own Thai Yoga Bodywork practice as well.