Are Thai massages good for you?

Thai massage, which originated in India, has been around for over 2,500 years. Originally regarded as a healing art, traditional Thai massage includes influences from both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine.

Lymphatic drainage massage is also known as manually lymphatic drainage (MLD) and it's a gentle type of massage that promotes lymph fluids circulation throughout the body.

Another type of bodywork is myofascial therapy. It involves the release of stiffness in fascia, which is the connective tissue system that houses each muscle in your body. The therapist will use light pressure to massage any tension areas and then stretch them.

Cranial sacral therapy works by gently manipulating the bones of the skull, spine and pelvis to increase the flow of cerebrospinal liquid in the central nervous. You can also experience deep relaxation.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage, also called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a gentle massage that stimulates lymph flow throughout the body.

If your range of motion and flexibility are affecting your athletic performance or making it hard to get around, Thai massage may help you move more easily.

Cranial Sacral Therapy is a method that gently manipulates the bones of the skull and spine to improve circulation of cerebrospinal Fluid in the central nervous. It can also have deeply relaxing effects.

The therapist uses heated stones to massage specific areas, such as acupressure points. The stones can be temporarily placed or used as tools for massage. Hot stones are a great addition to other massage techniques. They can help you relax and soothe your body, transmitting heat deep into your body.

Deep tissue massage is ideal for treating certain "trouble spots", which are painful and stiff in your body. Massage therapists use slow, deliberate strokes to apply pressure to layers of muscles, tendon, and other tissues beneath your skin. Deep tissue massage is less rhythmic than other types, but it can be very therapeutic. It may help with chronic tension patterns and muscle injuries such as back strain.

Before you can decide which massage style is best for you, you need to ask yourself a question. Do you simply want a massage for relaxation and stress control? Or do you need symptom relief or help with a certain health condition? Before booking a massage, let the therapist know what you're looking for and ask which style the therapist uses. Many use more than one style. Or the therapist may customize your massage, depending on your age, condition, or any special needs or goals you have.

However, many facilities, especially in the United States, do not offer massages to women in their first trimester due to the risk of miscarriage during this time. If you’re pregnant, talk with your doctor before receiving massage.

Your body undergoes major changes during pregnancy. Massage can be helpful during pregnancy to reduce stress, decrease arm and leg swelling, as well as relieve muscle and joint pain. When medication or other medical options are limited, massage may prove to be especially helpful. The massage therapist will use specially-designed massage pillows to help you get into a comfortable position for this type.