If there is something you ought to experience that’s uniquely Thai, it is Thai massage—that massage system which is so pampering, so invigorating and so soothing that it has mushroomed in many cities of Europe.

If there is something you ought to experience that’s uniquely Thai, it is Thai massage—that massage system which is so pampering, so invigorating and so soothing that it has mushroomed in many cities of Europe.

History A vital component of traditional Thai folk medicine, Thai massage has been practiced for over 2,500 years.  It is said to be founded by no less than the physician of Buddha himself.  Although popularized in the Western world as a luxurious offering in high-end spas, this massage technique is actually the local Thais’ lowly yet highly-effective way of relieving muscle aches and pains brought about by life’s daily chores. One can readily see, however, that Thai massage is a confluence of Ayurvedic and Chinese systems of massage.  There is, for instance, the element of aromatherapy as seen in the use of herb-scented candles.  The massage involves applying pressure on well-defined points of the body—reminiscent of Chinese acupressure and reflexology.

The Massage Experience A luxurious Thai massage clinic is tastefully decorated with a distinctively Thai ambiance.  The soft lighting lends a warm, relaxing glow to the room and a faint whiff of grassy aroma delicately scents the air.  There may be candles which burn sweet-smelling herbs and perhaps a miniature waterfall to mimic the relaxing sounds of cascading waters.  All these added amenities provide a soothing backdrop to your massage experience. You will be greeted by massage therapists clad in loose-fitting garb not unlike hospital scrubs.  You will be assigned to a therapist of your gender and size.  Most spas start off by having your feet washed in a basin of warm water, while the therapist treats your feet to a pampering wash and gentle massage. Usually, you will then be made to change into a soft and loosely flowing, pajama-like outfit.  The massage is done on a mattress laid down directly on the floor.  And for the next hour or two, that wonderfully relaxing Thai massage will soothe your sore muscles and stiff joints away.

Some liken Thai massage to experiencing yoga passively.  The massage consists of a combination of kneading, stretching, knuckle-cracking, pinching and compressing motions.  Often, you’ll be guided to yoga stances with the therapist’s knee or arm used as fixating points.  The whole-body massage goes either from the head to the toes or from the toes going up.  You can also opt to have a localized massage such as a facial massage, a foot massage and a back massage.  A complimentary tea may be offered to cap the whole experience. Realize that Thai massage is not intended for those who are pregnant, those who have open wounds and those who have heart ailments.  It is also not recommended for those who have just eaten a heavy meal.  For all the rest, however, Thai massage may be the most relaxing way to improve circulation, relieve muscle pains, improve the mood and bust stress. 

Beware, too—Thai massage is often habit-forming.