Traditional Thai massage is the treatment I trained for in Bangkok, at the Wat Po Thai Traditional Medical School. It is a form of bodywork that grew up in the temples of Thailand and has been passed from teacher to student there for more than two thousand years. I give it in my own studio on Voreneng in Vleuten, to women only.
What the treatment involves
I work along the energy lines that are called sen in Thailand. Using my palms, thumbs, elbows and feet I apply pressure to points along those lines, and in between I stretch your muscles and joints with movements that come from yoga. No oil is used and you keep your clothes on. Loose trousers and a T-shirt are the most comfortable; if you have not brought any, I will lend you something.
The massage runs from the feet up to the head. I start at the bottom, loosen the legs and hips, move on to the back, shoulders and arms, and finish at the neck and head. Wherever you have complaints I spend more time, but I do not skip the rest of the body, because a stiff neck often starts with the way the pelvis sits.
What you lie on
You lie on a firm mattress on a proper massage table. The mattress is solid enough to work pressure into and more comfortable than a mat on the floor. The table is heated, which lets muscles give way sooner, and the studio is air conditioned, so it is never too warm or too cold.
How much pressure
A traditional Thai massage is firm. That is part of it, but it should not hurt. Just say what you feel during the treatment and I will adjust the pressure. If you are coming for the first time I start more gently and build up. If you would rather have something softer, an oil massage is a good alternative.
What it helps with
The women who come to me usually have a specific reason: a back that gives up after a week behind a laptop, shoulders up around the ears, headaches that start in the neck, legs that feel heavy after running. Much of what a sports masseur treats turns up on my table as well; I simply approach it differently.
When not to come
I do not give massage during pregnancy, because the pressure this treatment involves is not suitable then. It is also better to wait if you have a fever, a fresh injury, thrombosis, or surgery not long behind you. If you are unsure, read the page on medical points to consider or give me a call.
Making an appointment
I work by appointment, without an online calendar, so that I can take the time each client needs. Call 030 877 6157 or send the contact form and we will find a moment together. On weekdays the studio is open until 8 pm, so you can still come after work. The route and parking are on a separate page.