A Thai massage is incredibly relaxing. Stretching techniques combined with the gentle pressure used by the massage therapist relax the whole body.
Thai massage has been proven to stimulate blood circulation as well as lymph circulation through the use of stretches, which fills the body's tissues with oxygen and promotes healthy cell growth and good heart health.
A 2015 study found that Thai massage significantly reduces levels of a certain stress marker present in the saliva, called sAA. The researchers concluded that Thai massage is more effective at reducing stress in healthy people than just resting.
Because of the way in which Thai massage can lower stress and boost relaxation, it should come as no surprise that it can also aid restful sleep. In fact, the US National Institutes of Health has found that Thai massage therapy can reduce fatigue and improve sleep quality.
Research has found that Thai massage is an effective treatment for people who suffer from chronic tension headaches. In a separate study, researchers found that Thai massage can also ease the symptoms of migraine.
Thai massage incorporates yoga-like movement which has been proven to ease stiffness in the body and, over time, improve range of motion and flexibility.
One study of 34 football players looked at the effects of Thai massage on their athletic performance. After receiving Thai massages three times within 10 days, they showed significant improvement in their ability to do sit-and-reach exercises.