Thai Massage vs Swedish Massage Adult or child, everyone loves a massage. What is important is getting the type of massage that provides the results you are looking for. There are two popular massage therapy options – Swedish massage and Thai massage. Knowing the difference between them will enable you to make the right and most benefiting choice between the two.
Swedish Massage Swedish massage is based on the Western understanding of physiology and anatomy. The aim is to promote relaxation and, in specific instances, healing of the body. It uses six main techniques – stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, pounding and shaking. These are applied in various combinations, depending on the results that are aimed for. Oils and lotions are used to soothe the skin and increase the effectiveness of the massage. Because of this, the client is normally required to be undressed and wear only a towel. The client lies on a special massage table while the masseuse works on the body. The client lies either on the stomach or back and little change of position is required. It is an established system of massage and, when done by a professional, can produce good results. Thai Massage Thai massage is based on the Eastern understanding of anatomy. While many of the techniques used are similar to those of Swedish massage, the Thai system also uses acupressure points in the body to stretch and loosen up muscles and relieve joint tension. A technique of blocking blood flow to specific parts of the body for a few seconds is also used. When the pressure is released, the flow of blood enhances the effect of the massage. During a Thai massage the client may change his or her position multiple times. This is done to allow the massage to focus on specific areas and thus increase its