Oriental massages – what’s it all about?

The trend for oriental massages reached us a long time ago, and they still enjoy great popularity. It’s no wonder – just the mere thought of oriental, incense-scented rituals makes us feel relaxed.

We want to introduce you to the most popular oriental massages – to tell you about their benefits and the techniques used.

Thai massage

Traditional Thai massage is a healing art with a history dating back about 7,000 years. It has been influenced by both Hindu Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.

It is a type of deep-body massage that uses various techniques, including deep muscle compression, joint mobilization, and acupressure. During the session, the therapist uses their hands, knees, legs, and feet, engaging the entire body of the person being massaged. The person does not lie passively, as they might during a shiatsu massage.

Thai massage helps to relieve tension, increase flexibility, and improve range of motion.

Interesting fact: you don't undress for a Thai massage; instead, you put on a special outfit that resembles a kimono.

Balinese massage

Balinese massage originates from Indonesia, specifically from the paradise island of Bali, as the name suggests. Like many other oriental massages, it is relaxing, though quite intense. It combines reflexology, aromatherapy, acupressure, yoga, and Ayurveda. Its primary goal is to improve the flow of blood and lymph in the body, which leads to deep relaxation.

Balinese massage uses techniques such as rubbing, kneading, stretching, percussion, smoothing, and reflexology. The masseur's movements are directed upwards or towards the nearest lymph nodes. You can also find passive exercises in Balinese massage that are part of yoga. These increase blood flow while allowing for further muscle stretching.

Interesting fact: oriental aromatic oils are used during the massage, which not only provide relaxation but also have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin (including reducing orange-peel skin/cellulite).

Abhyanga, or Ayurvedic massage

Ayurvedic massage is one of the oldest techniques for relieving pain and regenerating tissues. It was created to protect our bodies from illness and support the healing of various ailments.

Abhyanga is one of the most important treatments performed in Ayurveda. It is a full-body massage. It begins with massaging the head while in a seated position, and then individual body parts are massaged, including the face, hands, and feet.

The treatment is performed using warm, appropriately selected oil. It provides deep relaxation, eliminates stress, and removes fatigue.

Interesting fact: Abhyanga is such an important treatment performed during the Ayurvedic cleansing and revitalizing therapy known as Panchakarma.

Lomi Lomi massage

Lomi Lomi massage originates from the Hawaiian Islands. Its name means, among other things, kneading, pressing, and working on the inside and the outside. In another sense, "lomi lomi" means the touch of a cat's soft paw – this massage is performed with the hands or forearms, and the masseur's movements are fluid, straight, and responsive to the reactions of the person being massaged. True "cat-like movements."

Lomi Lomi massage is performed using warm oil. It triggers a feeling of bliss, relaxation, and satisfaction of both body and soul. It ensures deep relaxation.

Interesting fact: the person being massaged must be nude – only intimate parts of the body are covered. Appropriately selected music plays an important role during the massage.

If you haven't had the chance to "test" oriental massages yet, we highly encourage you to do so. And, of course, we encourage you to share your impressions with us after your treatments!