Whether you need to unwind after a long, hard day or just want to pamper your senses, a Thai massage is the perfect treat for your mind, body and soul.

Grounded in ancient Buddhism, Thai massage is said to have been developed over 2,500 years ago, by the Buddha's physician, Jivaka Kumarabhacca or as he is known in Thailand, Shivago Komarpaj. The ‘Father Doctor', as Shivago is affectionately known, introduced his particular form of massage to the Buddhist monks to help them soothe their bodies after long hours practicing meditation.

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Unlike most massage therapies, Thai massage is performed when you are fully clothed. Once dressed in light clothing, you will be invited to lie down on a mat. At first it may feel a little strange as you are physically wrestled into a series of near impossible positions. However, your therapist will actually be pulling and pushing your body into deep stretches similar to those in yoga, and it is easy to see why Thai massage is sometimes referred to as ‘yoga for two'. The trick is to relax your body and let the professional take control.

The technique involves the therapist putting gentle but firm pressure on specific energy points of your body with their palms, thumbs, feet and elbows (to stimulate your internal organs), and incorporates gentle rocking movements (to further enhance the stretch). This will also include pulling your head, legs, arms, fingers, toes and ears, so don't be alarmed if you hear your joints cracking! The aim is to release toxins and waste materials from your joints, muscles and connective tissues and this can sometimes result in a ‘rush' as your blood flow is instantly improved.

Thai massage is great for improving the function of the lymph glands and increasing blood circulation. It is fantastic at helping to relieve musculoskeletal problems such as back, neck, shoulder and hip pain and is especially good for releasing stress and tension, and encouraging relaxation of both your body and your mind. Be sure to tell your therapist if you have been suffering from any particular physical problem as this will affect your treatment.

Not to be confused with another activity loosely described as ‘massage', Thai massage is a traditional form of natural holistic therapy. So, please don't embarrass your therapist by asking for anything inappropriate, those interested in the more notorious form of ‘massage' can head towards the special massage parlors near the go-go bars.

A good, professional Thai massage should last for at least an hour. It is wonderfully soothing and relaxing, and afterwards you may feel a little light headed, as if just woken from a lovely dream.

So, if you have ever wanted to feel rejuvenated, restored and relieved of stress, head towards your nearest Thai masseur. Or better still, why not head straight to Thailand and indulge yourself by having a Thai massage in the paradise setting of a lush tropical beach?