Traditional Thai Massage

The word "massage" does not mean the same thing as it is understood in the typical western usage. In the west "massage" means a "rub down" and refers to techniques derived from Swedish Massage and regular Massage Therapy. "Thai Massage" (Phaen Boran Ráksãa Thaang Nûat) is completely different! It is a healing art of the Theraveda Buddhism and Buddhist medicine.

The Thai system focuses on circulation of vital energy in major pathways called sen. The major energy lines are manipulated, and important pressure points along these pathways are stimulated to help break down blockages, stimulate energy flow and restore balance and harmony.

Traditional Thai massage uses no oils or lotions, and the recipient remains clothed during a treatment. There is constant body contact between the practitioner and client, but rather than rubbing on muscles, the body is compressed, pulled, stretched and rocked in order to clear energy blockages and relieve tension. The practitioner uses thumbs, palms, forearms, elbows, knees and feet to create a dance of movement on the body of the recipient. In this process, joints are opened, muscles and tendons are stretched, internal organs are toned, and energy is balanced. The overall effect is one of deep relaxation, rejuvenation, and physical and mental well being.

Through assisted yoga, the body is stretched in ways that are difficult to attain through individual exercise and yoga practice. The result of a full-body Thai treatment is often an exciting and powerful mind/body healing experience, bringing both the recipient and the practitioner to heightened states of physical and spiritual well-being.

Thai Massage is done on a mat instead of a table. This allows the masseuse to get the necessary body leverage needed for the stretches and Yoga-like positions used in Thai Massage.

The pressure used can be varied according to your preferences, so be sure to tell your masseuse about any pain or problem areas that you would like addressed. If this is your first time, you may want us to use less pressure, while more pressure can be applied as your body can tolerate deeper work. Always feel free to request the level of pressure that feels right for you.

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Thai Combo Massage

Wat Po Thai Spa also offers our own specialty: The Thai Combo Massage which integrates the elements of a Traditional Thai Massage combined with Swedish & Reflexology for a unique healing experience.

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Classic Swedish & Deep Tissue Massage

Wat Po Thai Spa offers Classic Swedish massage which includes complete body massage with oil for those who generally experience good health but wish to add to their relaxation and quality of life. 

Classic Swedish massage technique involves gentle manipulation using strokes such as gliding, kneading, stretching and tapping to promote circulation, relaxation, stress reduction, and general wellbeing. Classic Swedish massage increases the oxygen flow in the blood and releases toxins from the muscles.

Deep tissue technique incorporates more focused, penetrating strokes such as compression and cross fiber friction to facilitate the release of specific muscles that are taut or knotted.

These techniques are often combined in a full body massage.

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Pregnancy Massage

Many women suffer from aches and pains, stiffness and tension during pregnancy. Gentle massage can often help to relieve problems such as backache, sleeplessness, edema, headaches, and other minor complaints.

Pregnancy Massage Can Produce:

• Elimination of waste products through the lymphatic & circulatory system, which combats fatigue.

• Increased circulation and reduced stress on the heart which keep blood pressure in check.

• Alleviation of muscle tightness, stiffness, tension, and cramping.

• Relief from headaches, stiff neck, backaches, sciatica, edema, and sore feet.

• An increase in oxygen and nutrients to the cells of mother and fetus; which means mom has more energy and fetus receives better nourishment.

• Stabilization of hormone levels.

• Increased flexibility of muscles.

• Relaxation and better sleep; which means a healthier and happier mom.

• Relaxation of muscles to improve rotation of breech presentation.

• Preparation and loosening of the pelvis before birth.

• An easier childbirth.

• Easier breastfeeding and better milk production due to reduction in tension.

• Speedier healing during postpartum recovery.

• Realignment of pelvis after birth.

• Relief from soreness and stiffness after childbirth.

• Speedier recovery after a cesarean birth.

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Foot Reflexology

Wat Po Thai Spa also offers Thai Foot Massage or reflexology. Reflexology originates from an ancient Chinese system and is based on the notion that there are nerve endings in the sides and the soles of the feet that correspond to all of the organs of the body such as the liver, kidney or spleen. The gentle and repeated massage of these pressure points stimulates and detoxifies the internal organs and improves circulation to the problem area.

By applying deep and direct pressure to specific points located on the feet, reflexology restores balance and improves function in the whole body, relieving pain and enhancing health.

You may schedule a foot massage separately, or you may combine a foot massage with a regular, full-body massage. Please schedule at least 90 minutes for a combined treatment.

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