What is Thai massage and how does it work?
Thai massage, also known as Nuad Thai, is one of the oldest known forms of bodywork therapy. Originating more than 2,500 years ago, its origin lies at the confluence of several cultural traditions: Indian Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, and Buddhism. This practice of Thai Massage and Emotions: Awaken Your Inner Self, far from being a simple method for relaxing muscles, has a holistic approach that seeks to balance body, mind, and spirit.
Unlike conventional massages performed on a massage table with oils, Thai massage is performed on the floor, on a futon, and the patient remains fully clothed in comfortable clothing. The session consists of a sequence of yoga-like stretches, pressure with the fingers, elbows, knees, and feet, as well as rhythmic joint mobilizations. Its objective is to unblock the body's energy channels, known as energy lines. Sen, which run through the body from head to toe.
According to Thai tradition, illness or emotional distress occurs when this vital energy—the lom—doesn't flow freely. Through specific pressures and passive movements, Thai massage seeks to restore that flow and restore harmony.
Bodywork, combined with conscious breathing, generates a deep relaxation effect that goes beyond the physical. Sessions typically last between 60 and 120 minutes and are tailored to the recipient's level of flexibility and sensitivity. Although there may be some intensity at certain points, the overall sensation is one of a slow dance, a wave of energy that renews and transforms.
In addition, Thai massage has a spiritual dimension. Many therapists consider it a practice of metta, or benevolent love. That is, it is carried out from an intention of caring and respecting others. This energetic and human connection makes it a transformative experience.
The physical benefits of Thai massage
When we talk about the physical benefits of Thai massage, we're referring to an impact that goes far beyond muscle relief. This technique works on several levels: muscular, circulatory, lymphatic, nervous, and energetic. Each session is an invitation to let go, unblock, and allow the body to recover its natural rhythm.
One of the first effects that are perceived is the improvement of the flexibilityThrough passive stretches similar to those in yoga, the joints are gently mobilized, releasing accumulated tension. This is especially useful for those who spend long periods of time sitting or in repetitive postures, as the body regains some of its original mobility.
The blood and lymphatic circulation They are also stimulated. The rhythmic pressure on muscles and tissues helps blood flow more efficiently, better oxygenating the organs and promoting the elimination of toxins. This, in turn, strengthens the immune system and provides an overall feeling of vitality.
Another key benefit is the reduction of physical painPeople with back problems, sciatica, joint pain, or muscle spasms find great relief after one or more sessions. The combination of pressure and stretching releases deep tension and activates the body's ability to self-regulate.
Thai massage and emotions also have a positive impact on the autonomic nervous system, particularly the parasympathetic nervous system, which is activated in states of deep relaxation. This results in a decrease in heart rate, improved sleep quality, and reduced stress.
Furthermore, since it is a practice in which there is no need to “do” but to “let it be done”, the body enters a state of active rest, very beneficial for people with chronic fatigue or high levels of stress. It's not just about resting, but rather allowing the body, once mobilized, to restart its functions from a different location.
How Thai massage affects our emotions
Now, where Thai massage takes on a unique value is in its ability to mobilize our emotions. Emotions are not something abstract; they manifest and reside in the body. An unexpressed emotion, an unreleased tension, an unprocessed emotional burden can literally become stuck in an area of the body: shoulders, neck, abdomen, pelvis.
💬 “Thai massage, by combining breathing with stretching and acupressure, releases energy from our body, which affects our emotions. Sometimes, during the session, people start laughing, or feel like crying, or experience sudden mood swings. All of this is very normal, because they are mobilizing.”
During a session, by pressing certain points and stretching certain areas, these emotional blocks can be accessed. The person may experience a wave of sadness, sudden joy, melancholy, or even memories that resurface without warning. This happens because unblocking energy also releases pent-up emotions.
Thai massage and emotions activate the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing for a state of rest and restoration. In this state, the body not only relaxes, but also begins to "digest" what it hasn't been able to process in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is in this conscious pause that repressed, forgotten, and unfinished business emerges.
Neuroscience has also observed that this type of manual therapy stimulates the limbic system, the region of the brain associated with emotions. This explains why some people, even without prior emotional expectations, end the session with a feeling of inner renewal or of having "let go" of something important.
Common emotional reactions during the session
Emotional reactions during a Thai massage session, and emotions, can be as diverse as the individual. The most important thing is to understand that they are all valid. The body has its own language, and when it's given permission to speak, it sometimes does so in unexpected ways.
💬 "A lot of the energy that's stagnant in our body is moving our bodies in unusual ways, because there are certain postures we don't reach in our daily lives, and all of this leads us to enter a meditative state as well..."
Some common examples:
- Spontaneous crying: It can be silent or uncontrollable, and it doesn't always have a specific cause. It's a release.
- Laughter: A sudden feeling of joy or uncontrollable laughter may arise for no apparent reason.
- Irritability or discomfort: Sometimes the body reacts by resisting letting go, which is also part of the process.
- Deep calm: a feeling of peace and connection with oneself, as if in a state of meditation or light trance.
These reactions shouldn't be interpreted as something strange. On the contrary, they are a sign that the body is responding, that energy is being mobilized, and that a transformation process is underway. Many therapists claim that these reactions are the most important part of the session, as they indicate that the body is "doing its work" from within.
The relationship between breathing, stretching and meditative state
One of the most fascinating aspects of Thai massage and its emotional appeal is how it becomes an active meditation. Through conscious breathing in time with the therapist's movements, the mind begins to calm, thoughts slow down, and an inner space for introspection opens.
💬 “…because as all this movement is assisted, one comes to relax, the body is as if it is functioning, but at the same time it is enjoying this passive movement that makes all the channels mobilize and the person can experience, thanks to this state of relaxation, an emotional flow.”
This meditative state is not induced from the mind, but from the body. The mind, no longer having to control, surrenders. The body, feeling cared for and mobilized, ceases to be on alert. And in that union, something very powerful emerges: presence.
When we are present, we connect with our authentic emotions. Slow, deep breathing activates the vagus nerve, the regulator of the nervous system. This helps balance emotions, reduce anxiety, and even improve digestive and hormonal functions.
This meditative component is what many people value most after several sessions. Not only does their body feel better, but their mind is clearer and their heart lighter. This emotional lightness is difficult to describe, but very easy to recognize when experienced.
Why it mobilizes stagnant energy and relieves daily stress
Our daily routine is filled with micro-tensions. Small, unexpressed anger, hidden fear, and bottled-up anxiety. Over time, all of this accumulates and creates a state of physical and emotional rigidity that prevents us from feeling at peace.
💬 “We all know that because of our stress and the speed of our daily lives, we're unable to process everything that's happening in our bodies, and it's a good way to relieve stress.”
Thai massage and emotions, when working on the lines Sen, allows that blocked energy to begin to move, just as the lymphatic system. It's not magic, it's physiology and awareness. Through touch, the body feels accompanied, acknowledged, and cared for. This activates self-regulation processes that the body can't initiate on its own when it's in constant survival mode.
People who regularly receive this type of therapy report less insomnia, a greater ability to cope with stress, and a better connection with their emotions. It's a way to reset, to take a genuine break from a world that rarely allows for pause.
Real experiences and how to integrate them into your life
You don't have to be spiritual, flexible, or an expert in meditation to benefit from Thai massage. All you need is openness. And often, that openness comes after the first session, when you discover the true impact this practice can have.
People who hadn't been able to cry in years find tears in one session. Others, who suffered from chronic anxiety, discover a type of relaxation they didn't know existed. Some use it as a complement to therapeutic processes, and others integrate it into their monthly self-care routine.
The key is consistency and a willingness to listen to yourself. It's not just about receiving the massage, but rather observing what awakens, what changes, what is released. Even taking a few minutes after the session to write down what you felt can be very revealing.
Incorporating it into your daily life doesn't require much effort. You can do it once a month, or whenever you feel the need to reconnect with yourself. The important thing is not to see it as a luxury, but rather as a tool for emotional health.
The role of the therapist in the emotional process of Thai massage
Although Thai massage has a defined structure and technique, the true value of a session depends not only on the physical movements, but also on the therapist's presence, intention, and sensitivity. The therapist is much more than a stretcher performer: they are a channel that accompanies the recipient's process of liberation and inner balance.
A good Thai therapist not only masters anatomy or lines Sen, but is also trained to read the body, perceive subtle blockages, and emotionally support any reactions that arise during the session. The quality of touch—firm but compassionate—is the foundation upon which trust is built.
💬 “The body seems to be functioning, but at the same time it's enjoying this passive movement… all the channels are mobilized, and the person can experience, thanks to this state of relaxation, an emotional flow.”
When the body relaxes and the mind quiets, the ground is prepared for emotions to emerge. At that moment, the therapist must remain available, without judging or intervening, simply accompanying from a neutral yet empathetic presence. This "being there" without trying to "fix" anything is one of the greatest gifts one can offer in a session.
In addition, many therapists practice meditation and breathing techniques before starting a session, with the goal of staying centered. This directly influences the quality of the experience: the more present the therapist is, the more easily the recipient can surrender to the process.
The therapeutic relationship in Thai massage is a sacred space. It's non-invasive, yet deeply intimate. It's non-verbal, yet full of communication. Therefore, choosing a therapist you feel comfortable with is as important as the massage itself.
Tips to get the most out of a Thai massage session
For Thai massage and your emotions to have the greatest possible impact—physically, mentally, and emotionally—it's important to consciously prepare and surrender to the process. Here are some key tips that can make all the difference:
1. Arrive early and without rushing
Avoid arriving in a rush or with your mind full of things to do. Try to arrive at least 10 minutes early to ground yourself mentally and begin to enter a state of calm.
2. Wear comfortable, loose clothing
Clothing should allow for free movement. Avoid belts, zippers, or tight-fitting clothing. Some venues provide specific clothing, but if not, bring something like yoga or pajamas.
3. Inform the therapist of your physical and emotional state
It's important for the therapist to be aware of any discomfort, injury, or recent emotional state. This will allow them to tailor the session to your needs and respect your boundaries.
4. Allow yourself to feel without judgment
Crying, laughter, sleepiness, silence, discomfort… anything can appear. Don't repress it. The more you allow yourself to feel, the deeper the therapeutic effect will be.
💬 “…when stagnant energy is mobilized and the body enters a relaxed state, emotions flow. It's a space of emotional liberation where one doesn't need to do anything, just be and allow it to happen.”
5. Breathe deeply during the session
Don't forget to breathe. Maintain slow, deep breathing, especially during stretches. This will facilitate relaxation and a mind-body connection.
6. Take your time afterward
Don't get up and run away afterward. Lie down for a few minutes, then sit up slowly and drink water. If possible, avoid returning to intense activity immediately.
7. Reflect on what has emerged
After the session, it's common to feel mental clarity or recall forgotten emotions. Write them down, share them, or simply observe them. It's part of your healing process.
In Quiroessence We believe that balance between body and mind is cultivated every day. Our massage, osteopathy, and yoga center is located in the heart of Granada, just a five-minute walk from the Cathedral.
If you're looking for a space to take care of yourself, relax, and reconnect, we'd love to welcome you.
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