Thai Massage vs Swedish Massage. Differences, Benefits & The Best One

Two of the most popular massages these days are Thai massage and Swedish massage. Most people say every massage is the same.

“They put new tags just to attract fresh clients.”

“Every massage is a Thai massage.”

These are some common things that need to be clarified about the types of massages that are popular worldwide. So, I thought let’s talk about the differences in detail, and close this entire discussion on what is the difference between Thai massage and Swedish massage.

Different Beginnings

It is said that Thai Massage was developed by some Indian monks. The famous technique later traveled to Thailand approximately 2,500 years ago.

Legends say that Shivago Komarpaj, the personal physician of Gautam Buddha, developed Thai massage.

When it is a catchy story to hear, there is no way to prove it. Lack of evidence puts labels of folk lore onto it.

There are no solid written texts regarding Thai massage that have come to light. However, there are rather faded accounts of the method being passed through generations via word of mouth.

Swedish massage began around the beginning of the 19th century, thanks to Pehr Henrik Ling. The Swedish physical education pioneer rocked the world with his massage technique. It is said Ling fused the methods used by Romans and Greeks.

In the 1850s, the famous method flew to America, and the rest is history.

Clothes On or Off?

Thai massage usually requires the receiver to be in loose robes, fully clothed, and relaxed. Many stretches and movements are incorporated into this therapy, so activewear is also welcomed in this method.

The opposite is practiced in Swedish massage. The clients are asked to remove as much clothing as they are comfortable without. In many cultures, it is acceptable for a receiver to be completely naked during a Swedish massage.

However, sheets and towels are provided to the clients. They can cover their private areas and are constantly asked about their comfort during the Spa. Client’s privacy remains focus de prime in both practices.

You will be given the space and proper privacy to change into the clothing of your choice.

The Lubricants

You have guessed right. No lubrication whatsoever is used in Thai massages. Due to the preference for clothing, it is safe to say an authentic Thai massage will not include any oils.

Along with the clothes, the second reason behind a Thai massage's no-oil policy is the stretching. This method includes a lot of stretching.

The masseuse needs a firm girl to perform the stretches on the client; oiling the skin will make it more challenging. No oiling also means no need to hit the shower after the massage.

Contrary to Thai massage, Swedish massage requires the practitioner to use oil on the receiver. The masseuse has to glide their hands using longer strokes. Most of the time at professional Swedish spas therapeutic oils are used in the process.

Therapeutic oils multiply the benefits of Swedish massage therapy. Don’t worry; patch tests are done on each client to check for any possible allergies.

The Strokes Used

Swedish massage techniques emphasize flowing, long strokes that will promote holistic well-being and relax the muscles.

Individuals seeking relief from sore muscles after a long weekend at the office or the gym can benefit from it. Perfect for recovery and relaxation, these are the selling points for the Swedish massage.

Real Thai massage therapy should involve a blend of stretching, acupressure, and yoga-inspired poses. The receiver will improve flexibility and experience higher energy flows.

Other notable benefits of Thai Spa are stress relief and better energy levels.

Various Benefits

 

The benefits of both massages vary. Thai massage may help with bad back and joint pain. It also improves flexibility and range of movement for athletes.

According to several surveys it is established that the Thai massage method will help in bettering one’s quality of sleep.

In a few cases, the receivers also noted that Thai therapy helped their headaches and symptoms of migraine.

Swedish massage has a truck load of benefits on the other side. Relaxation is the central idea behind every massage. It is known to relax one mentally as well as physically.

Your painkiller lot will go in vain once you get used to Swedish Spa. It is an excellent pain reliever for issues like back pains, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Bottom Line

By now, you must have understood the Swedish vs. Thai massage battle and which one is the best. You can choose Thai massage or Swedish massage; it depends on your needs purely.

Both techniques are proven to provide relaxation and are dominating the world of rubdowns at this very moment.

Safer would be to try both and choose which technique aligns best with your body and mind.