How to Do Thai Massage

Massage is therapeutic for body and soul. When done effectively, massages can dissolve any tension in your body. Thai massage is an ancient healing art thought to have originated in India before spreading to Thailand. It involves the application of pressure on various energy lines and points. Thai massage contains an array of passive stretching movements that are performed with feet, knees, hands and elbows. In addition to assisting relaxation, Thai massage also increases the flow of energy and flexibility while stimulating internal organs to perform properly.

A woman receiving a thai massage. (Image: Levent Konuk/iStock/Getty Images)

Thai Massage Your Own Hands to Prepare

Step 1

Hold your left thumb firmly by the base near the palm of your left hand by using your right hand.

Step 2

Rotate your left thumb five times clockwise and then five times counterclockwise. Pull on your thumb.

Step 3

Rotate your left index finger five times clockwise and then five times counterclockwise.

Step 4

Repeat steps one through three on the rest of your fingers of the left hand. Then repeat steps one through three by using your left hand to massage the fingers on your right hand.

Thai Massage: The Shoulder and Neck

Step 1

Have your massage recipient sit comfortably on the ground and lean his head to the left. Roll the part of your forearm that is not as bony up the side of his head, then down to his left shoulder.

Step 2

Roll his left arm up and down in circles several times.

Step 3

Roll his right arm up past his ear as his left arm comes down. Make sure the movements are smooth as you rotate each arm back and forth.

Step 4

Repeat steps one through three on the right side of the neck.

Side Stretching Thai Massage

Step 1

Have your massage recipient sit comfortably on the floor or on a mat. Hold his left arm and place his left palm against his left ear. His left elbow should stick out to the side, resembling a triangle.

Step 2

Tell your massage recipient to hold onto your left forearm with his right hand.

Step 3

Kneel facing your massage recipient and push your body against his left elbow until the massage recipient experiences a full stretch.

Step 4

Have your massage recipient grab your left elbow to get an even deeper stretch. Bring him back to the original seated position.

Step 5

Repeat steps one through four on the right side of your massage recipient's body.

Tip

Don't worry if your massage recipients' joints crack. This is normal. Get training in Thai massage before performing it on others.