Is that the same as a normal massage?
"Is that basically the same as a normal massage?" We hear it almost daily. The short answer: no, not really. Both are massages, both work through touch, both relax. But in their tools, their structure and their effect they differ quite a bit. Here is where those differences sit, and which variant suits which situation.
What each one is about
Classic massage, often called Swedish massage, goes back to Pehr Henrik Ling in the 19th century. It works with oil, you usually lie covered by a towel, and the typical movements are long strokes, kneading and tapping. The aim: to loosen the muscles through the skin.
Thai massage works without oil. The masseuse uses pressure along the energy lines, passive stretches and her thumbs, forearms, elbows, knees and feet. The aim: to mobilise the body through pressure and movement.
Tools compared
- Position: classic massage lying down; at our studio, the Thai massage takes place entirely lying on the massage table.
- Oil: classic massage yes, often warmed; classical Thai massage without oil, the aroma oil variant with warm oils.
- Tools: classic massage with the hands; Thai massage with thumbs, forearms, elbows, knees and feet.
- Movements: classic massage stroking, kneading, tapping; Thai massage rhythmic pressure and passive stretches.
- Duration: classic massage typically 30 or 60 minutes; Thai massage 60, 90 or 120 minutes.
Which variant fits when?
A rough rule of thumb:
- Little time, surface tension, happy to be carried passively: classic massage, our aromatic oil massage.
- Limited mobility, chronic tension or an active, sporty everyday life, and you want to feel the body more: Thai massage.
- Sensitive skin or oil simply is not your thing: Thai massage.
- A stressful stretch and you just want to switch off: either works, Thai a little more active, classic more passive.
- Not sure? Give us a call on +49 89 926 585 60 and we will gladly answer your questions.
Myths, briefly cleared up
"Thai massage hurts." It may feel intense, but it should not hurt. The pressure is set with you, and an experienced masseuse feels your limit.
"Classic massage is just wellness, Thai is only for athletes." Neither is true. Classic massage has a therapeutic tradition, and Thai massage has a calm, relaxing side in its aroma oil variant. Medical therapy is replaced by neither.
"Thai massage replaces yoga." No. They share passive stretches, breath and body awareness, but yoga is active and Thai massage is passive. They complement each other rather than replace each other.
What we offer you
At Sala Thai Massage & Spa you will find traditional Thai massage, aromatic oil massage and a few more variants: hot stone, back and neck, foot reflexology and couples massage. Our masseuses are trained in the Thai tradition. We deliberately do not offer Swedish massage, because we would rather do well what we already know.
Which variant fits you? Give us a call on +49 89 926 585 60 and we will answer your questions before you book.