In a Thai herbal stamp massage I work with warm herbal compresses: cotton bundles filled with dried herbs, which I heat over steam and then roll and press over the body. The heat reaches further into the muscles than my hands can on their own, and the herbs give off a scent that stays with you for the whole treatment.
What is inside the compresses
The filling follows an eastern recipe, with turmeric, lemongrass, ginger, camphor and tamarind as the base. That combination smells sharp and earthy rather than sweet. The compresses are heated fresh for every treatment and are not reused for the next client.
How the treatment goes
You lie on a firm mattress on a proper massage table, in an air conditioned room. I start with my hands, so that the muscles are already a little looser, and then bring in the compresses. Before they go on your skin I test the temperature on my own arm and then on your forearm, so you know what to expect. It should feel warm and never burn.
I work mainly on the back, the shoulders and the neck, because that is where the effect is greatest, and I use the compresses on the calves as well when they are tight. Between rounds the compresses go back into the steam so they stay warm.
When it works well
Cold and stiffness are the reason most women choose this massage. In winter, after a spell of a lot of sitting, or when a traditional Thai massage is too firm for you but you still want to feel something deep in the muscles. The heat does part of the work, so less pressure is needed.
What to keep in mind
Heat does not suit everyone. With inflammation, a fresh injury, varicose veins, sensitive skin, or if you tolerate heat badly, an oil massage is the better choice. I do not give massage during pregnancy. Do also tell me about any herbal allergies. There is more under medical points to consider.
Making an appointment
The compresses have to be heated before the treatment, so please mention when you book that this is what you are coming for. Call 030 877 6157 or send the contact form. I give massages to women only, in my studio on Voreneng in Vleuten, until 8 pm on weekdays.