Deep muscle work, stretching, and stress reduction are key characteristics of a traditional Thai massage. But what makes a Thai massage so sought after by tourists and athletes?
The Thai massage is well-known for releasing muscle and joint tension while also relieving stress. With heavy pressure on muscles followed by intense (but safe) full-body stretching, the masseuse is trained to push your body, mind, and spirit to increase your long-term energy and wellness.
Receiving a Thai massage is a must-do thing for anyone visiting Thailand and has all sorts of health benefits while being extremely affordable. Your first Thai massage might not be what you expect and you might be caught off guard if unprepared. Here is what to expect…
What Is Special About a Thai Massage?
You’re probably used to a western massage with oils, rubbing, and a nice relaxing atmosphere. The Thai massage is vastly different. It is an intense massage that targets deep muscles by using the masseuse’s full body weight followed by stretching, rocking, and compressing your body in unique positions. You’ll feel relieved in areas you didn’t even know you were tight.
As one of the four cores of alternative medicine, the Thai massage has been practiced for thousands of years. The most unique part of the massage is the non-stop contact between giver and receiver with a rhythm and procedure designed to release stress through your natural energy lines (“sen”).
You might be thinking the Thai massage is a bit too much for you, and if you have underlying medical conditions or are pregnant, you should not get a Thai massage. Stick to a traditional western oil massage also offered throughout parts of the country.
If you’re healthy and up for the challenge, don’t fear the intensity. Therapists are highly trained and know exactly how hard to push your body while building up intensity throughout the massage. You’ll be contorted in all sorts of ways in order to expel negative energy. It will feel GREAT.
Thai Massage – What to Expect
Walking into a Thai massage might be a little out of the ordinary if you’re accustomed to a typical massage in western culture. Establishments can vary widely and some have an open massage area with little privacy.
You’ll slip off your shoes and likely wash your feet in lemon water or have them washed for you. From there you’ll typically be asked to change into a garment that will be provided. There might not be an entirely private place to change so you’ll have to make due. After you’re in the new garments, you’ll be able to choose your masseuse and be taken to your massage area. A floor mat or massage table is customary, but, due to the intensity of the massage, either area will need to be very secure.
You’ll typically start the massage laying flat on your back or stomach and you’ll rotate throughout the massage to your sides while finishing up in the sitting position.
The masseuse will begin by working up your legs from your toes and applying hard pressure through their palms to your leg muscles. As the massage progresses and the masseuse works their way throughout your body, they’ll often use their knees or elbows to get into those thick-muscled areas.
After the masseuse has finished the deep muscle work on an area, they’ll stretch it out completely. This includes getting full range of motion of the muscle group by alternating rocking in a fully extended position and compressing to get it fully limbered up.
You’ll finish off the massage in a cross-leg seated position where the masseuse will work your neck, top of shoulders, head, and back. This position in especially beneficial for posture as the masseuse will stretch and align your spine and shoulders.
Depending on your size and age, the masseuse will adjust their intensity. If it is too intense, just let them know right away and it will be no big deal. If it is too much, say “jep” (hurts).
Throughout the massage you will continuously be put into strenuous positions and may be stepped on, kneed, elbowed, and constantly shifting position so be prepared.
As for attire, most locations will require you to change into a garment that is provided but it’s best to arrive at the establishment in something loose and comfortable just in case.
What Should I Wear to a Thai Massage Session?
You’ll want to wear clothing that prevents any sticking or slipping as the masseuse will apply pressure to your body in a number of ways. Even with the Thai humidity, you might want to consider wearing long-sleeves to help give your arms some extra protection and prevent gripping or injury during the process.
Cotton is a great material to wear as it is absorbs sweat and channels heat away from the body, helping to stay cool during a long session. Skin-burn is a risk you’ll take without the right clothing as no oils are used in a Thai massage.
Recommended to wear for Thai massage:
- Loose-fitting cotton material
- Thai fisherman pants
- Jogging pants
- Sweat pants
- Cotton long-sleeved t-shirt
Thai Massage Benefits
Following a Thai massage, you’ll likely feel sore, tired, and relieved to have made it through. The goal is long-term wellness and health, so think of the experience as a short-term sacrifice or work-out. It’s perfectly normal to feel exhausted. After a long night’s sleep, or maybe even sooner, you’ll start to feel the immense positive effects and be prepared to take on your journey with a newfound energy.
Benefits include:
- Headache relief
- Less fatigue
- Calmed nerves
- Deep feelings of relaxation
- Increase in energy
- Improved circulation
- Better posture
- Increased range of motion
- Release of emotional distress
- Decrease in muscle pain
- Improved flexibility
- Elimination of muscle spasms
How Much Is a Massage in Thailand?
The cost of a traditional Thai massage in Thailand ranges from ฿200-450 Baht which is roughly $5-15 USD per hour for what will likely be the best massage of your life. If you visit touristy areas, expect to pay around $15 USD per hour. Local establishments will give you a much lower price and typically only charge about $5 USD per hour.
You shouldn’t have to worry much with reputable establishments (quick way to tell is if it’s busy – it’s reputable) but make sure to check the window price and agree to the price before getting a massage. It’s good practice to be safe and avoid any unnecessary trouble.
Another thing to note is that giving a massage is strenuous work for the masseuse, so make sure to be respectful and polite.
What Is a Thai Massage Bonus?
A well-known and often exaggerated aspect of Thai massage parlors is a “happy ending” which is essentially a sexual favor given at the end of the massage for an additional fee.
At an authentic Thai massage establishment you’ll be treated very well from your head to your toes without any inappropriate touching and finish off with a nice cup of tea.
Read reviews before visiting your parlor. If the establishment is popular and well-reviewed you won’t have to worry about being propositioned for any “extra” services.