Thai massage in Thailand - what types are there, how to learn and where they do it better. Thai massage in Thailand - types, training and techniques

Sep 25 2014

Prostitution in Pattaya. Part two. Masseuses and day bars

By day, Pattaya looks like a pretty decent family resort town, especially to the uninformed observer.

Madness here wakes up with the sunset. Freelancers appear on the beach after sunset, and beer bars in the bulk open at the same time, i.e. after 6 pm.

And if a farang tourist wants secretly during the day, then he has a road either to massage parlors, they are open from 11-12 days, or to bars, which I conditionally called daytime.

Masseuses in Pattaya

Massage in Pattaya is divided into several types

Thai massage
Oil massage, i.e. oil
Foot massage - foot massage
Head and/or face massage
Body massage

You need to understand that not all masseuses in Pattaya will provide additional services. Since doing massage is quite a job. There are also decent Thais, for example, my ex-girlfriend Wee.

In many salons, the policy itself from the boss is such that the boss forbids masseuses from providing additional services, if they somehow catch them, they can be kicked out of work.

But, nevertheless, many secretly do it on the sly. This is their additional and sickly income. There are also gradations on what exactly a particular Thai will agree to, they themselves offer, if they are ready for something. Everything can be discussed.

Prices, moreover, they bend strongly upwards, since usually visitors to massage parlors are freshly arrived tourists who do not know the right prices, including married couples, when the husband cannot escape from his wife in any way, except for a massage hiding behind a curtain. The poor fellow is ready to pay any amount, since he will not have another chance. For those who have lived in Pattaya for a long time, know the prices and how it all works, love with a masseuse will be inexpensive. And plus you will benefit from the massage itself.

1. Thai massage

It is done in any massage parlor, usually there are 3 types to choose from everywhere: Thai, oil and foot massage. For Thai massage in normal salons, special wide pants are issued. The massage itself can be palpably painful. This is the classic, traditional, healing and world-famous Thai massage. The Thais themselves come to the procedures, to do only Thai massage. If you came to the salon and ordered a Thai massage, then it usually means that there will be no intimacy in principle.

2. Oil massage

It costs more than Thai. Here you need to undress completely, which already seems to hint. In fact, you need to undress, because you will be rubbed with oil. Taika gives out a towel to cover herself. Oil massage is very pleasant, has a relaxing effect, it is easy to fall asleep under it. At the end of the massage, there may be a continuation, this is how the client and the masseuse agree.

We advise you to definitely go for a massage at. At the same time, there are so many varieties of it that you can walk every day for a week and not repeat. The most popular types are foot massage, oil and Thai. All types of massage both tone up and relax at the same time (as well as swimming in the sea). So the procedure is not only pleasant, but also useful.

Often massages can be done right on the beach.

The quality of massage to a greater extent depends not on the high cost of the salon, but on the masseuse herself. If she graduated from a special school, you will get a professional job. If she took a couple of lessons, then you will get an unprofessional job. In the case of foot massage and oil massage, this is not particularly scary, but if you do traditional Thai massage ineptly, then you can pinch a nerve or something.

It is worth noting that massage in Patatya has one feature that distinguishes it from all other places. If you are a woman, then you won’t notice much difference, but for men it will be huge. What we mean is that massage with "continuation and happy ending" is ubiquitous. I think there is no need to explain what is meant. "Continuation" is offered everywhere and, of course, for an additional fee. Even if you are doing a foot massage in front of everyone, the masseuse may hint at seclusion on the bed behind the curtain. Well, if you agreed to an oil massage from the very beginning, then the end will be predictable and almost 100% will offer it (although sometimes there are masseuses who do not).

How to distinguish such a "special salon" from the usual? Yes, almost nothing. It all depends on the masseuses who work there. If they don't want to do It, they won't. The only 100% guarantee can be given if young girls in sexy clothes are sitting at the entrance: mini-skirts, ripped denim shorts, T-shirts with a large neckline. In this case, for men, these are the doors to heaven, and for their wives, the doors to hell. But even masseuses in modest identical clothes do not guarantee that there will be only a massage.

There are also special body massage salons for men.

This is a 100% erotic massage done with soapy foam. Such a massage with a continuation costs from 2500 baht. Several large salons are located on Second Street, not far from its intersection with North, next to the show of drag queens Tiffany and Alcazar. You will immediately notice them on the signs. You can get there for 10 baht on songthaews that go along Second Street.

What does a massage parlor look like?

Outwardly, it can look different - it can be large and small, one-story and two-story. But you can easily recognize it by the Massage sign (often duplicated in Russian in recent years) and women of various ages sitting at the door. As a rule, they are in the same working clothes. If you walk by, you will almost always be told something like: “Mr. massaaa” (they used to like to say “Hello, massaaa”, but in recent years this has been heard less and less).

Inside the massage parlour, almost everywhere is the same - chairs for massaging the legs, head and shoulders, beds for Thai and oil massage (which are drawn with curtains, creating some privacy). If the salon is large or two-story, then there may even be small rooms 2x2 m for oil massage. There is air conditioning almost everywhere, so massage in Pattaya takes place in comfortable conditions, and not in stuffy conditions.

Many salon owners, in order to stand out and create a more comfortable atmosphere, hang pictures on the wall, put flowers, buy vessels with overflowing water (such as mini-waterfalls). Calm relaxing music with oriental motifs may be included.

If you wish, you can choose your favorite masseuse. If you say that you just came for a massage, then the one whose turn it is now will do it for you.

What are the types of massage

As in all of Thailand, massage in Pattaya has a dozen varieties, the main of which we will now describe.

Foot massage (Foot massage, Foot massage)

Its purpose is clear from the name. Within an hour, the feet, legs and thighs are massaged. At the end of ten minutes massage the neck and upper back. Foot massage in Pattaya is the most affordable and popular. It is done in comfortable chairs, which are almost always turned towards the street, so that you can watch what is happening outside the window.

Thai Massage

This is a traditional Thai massage, which is different from European. It is static, i.e. there are no strokes, but a lot of pressure on various points. It often hurts when there is pressure on a muscle. Try it once and if you don't like it, don't do it in the future. In addition, it requires professionalism, which many masseuses cannot always boast of. For this type of massage, it is better to take older women who have more experience and are less likely to get pinched.

Traditional Thai massage in Pattaya is done in clothes on beds or mattresses. Sometimes such a bed is covered with curtains, sometimes not.

If you want to try a real Thai massage, then visit.

Oil massage (Oil Massage, Oil massage)

Such a massage in Pattaya is almost always synonymous with a "continued" massage. In its original form, it is a European massage, when the whole body is massaged with oil. The procedure is pleasant and relaxing, but then you will have to wash off the oil with soap twice (this can be done right in the massage parlor, where there is always a shower and toilet).

If you decide to continue the massage during the process, then it will be for a fee. This money is given to the masseuse, and the official cost of the oil massage is paid at the "cash desk". See prices below.

Oil massage in Pattaya for men is often done without clothes at all, even underpants. Sometimes they give a towel to cover the middle part of the body.

Head and back massage

This type of massage is very pleasant. It's done differently in different salons. Sometimes the head, arms and upper back are massaged in the chair for an hour. If on the mattress, then in addition to the head and hands, the entire back is also massaged.

Other types of massage

In addition to the most popular ones described above, there are other types: massage with aloe vera, coconut oil, milk, aromatherapy. To a greater extent, they are for women who want to make the skin more elastic and smooth. Also in the massage parlors of Pattaya, manicure and pedicure are possible.

Prices for massage

Massage in Pattaya costs almost the same everywhere. On the beach, 50-100 baht is more expensive than in the salons on the street. Away from the sea, you can find options for 50 baht cheaper than what will be written below. We consider the cost of services in massage parlors on the street, and not in specialized spas. In them, it can be 200-1000 baht more expensive. Naturally, they don’t take just anyone there, which means you can be sure that certified people will massage you.

The cheapest massage can be found on Soi Buakao, where Thai and foot massage costs 100-150 baht, and oil 200 baht. In other places, the cost is standard and is written below.

So, the prices for massage in Pattaya are as follows (for 1 hour):

foot massage and traditional Thai massage - 200 baht;
oil massage - 300 baht;
head + back - 200 baht;
massage with aloe vera, coconut oil, milk, aromatherapy, manicure and pedicure - 400 baht;
"Continuation" of massage: "manual" work - 500 baht, oral sex - 600-700, classic - 800-1000 baht.

Tips

Tipping is optional, but considering such low prices for massage, it is quite possible to give an additional 50-100 baht. If you decide to give less than 40 baht, then it is better to keep the money for yourself, because the masseuse will perceive these pennies as a handout to the beggar and will be very offended.

Keep in mind that tips are one of the sources of income for masseuses. From each massage session, she receives half from the "cash desk". For example, a foot massage costs 200 baht and she only gets 100 baht. If you had a “massage with a continuation”, then there is no point in tipping, you already paid enough for it. Otherwise, they will get used to it and next time they will immediately call a higher price or demand a tip.

Massage for the blind in Pattaya

It is believed that therapeutic massage is best done on the blind. They have a more developed tactile sensitivity and can identify a problem area by touch. They do massage very hard and painful, so it’s better not to go to them for relaxation. But if you are worried about various pains, then you can’t find a better place. Yes, and the procedure is cheaper than in a regular salon for 50 baht. The price for a traditional Thai massage is 120-180 baht (depending on the location).

Massage for the blind in Pattaya (in English Thai Blind Massage Institute, abbreviation TBMI) is not found at every turn. There are only a few famous places. You can also ask at the hotel. Perhaps they will even order transport to the salon.

Here are three addresses where blind masters work:

1) Jomtien Complex 413/89 Thappraya Road, Moo 12. Located almost at the intersection where Thappraya Road turns sharply towards Jomtien Beach. Enter under the arch and walk 30 meters. The East Suites hotel can serve as a reference point.

2) Jomtien Soi 8. A small salon that is located in an alley. From the sea, walk 3 minutes along Soi 8.

3) Naklua Soi Street 20 and 22. You can enter from these two streets. Nearby are The Green Park Resort and Royal Orchid Resort hotels, which will serve as a guide.

Even in ancient times, people used techniques such as stroking, kneading, rubbing to relieve tension and pain. Later they were given the name - massage. A large number of ancient manuscripts, rock paintings, hieroglyphs were found about this art in India, Ancient China, Egypt, Indonesia. Over time, massage began to be used not only for relaxation and pain relief, but also as one of the methods of treatment. There are a large number of types and techniques for its implementation. Let us dwell on such a popular variety as Thai massage. Technique, basic techniques for performing massage will be discussed further.

History of Thai massage

The origins of Thai massage originate in the northern part of India. Dr. Jiva Kumar Bhakka is considered the founder of this ancient art. It is known that he was a friend of Gautama Buddha. At that difficult time, with the help of a miraculous Thai massage, he managed to cure the Indian king, whose personal doctor he was.

Unfortunately, in those days, and this is a thousand years ago, writing was not developed. And so the secrets of massage, skills were passed down from generation to generation, by word of mouth, but were not fixed on paper.

In 1832, in Thailand, at the Wat Pho monastery, the first university appeared, in which ordinary citizens studied massage techniques and medicine. On the marble slabs, lines of influence on the body and acupressure points were depicted. The statues were executed in various as well as stretching poses. And only in the 17th century, the subtleties of Thai massage were described in a voluminous medical treatise. However, it has not been completely preserved. Only a few slabs and statues have been preserved to this day. And the monastery of Wat Pho is now considered the center of education of traditional Thai medicine and massage.

If you decide to try Thai massage, the benefits and contraindications of this type of treatment should be well known to you.

Who shows Thai massage

Thai massage is a wellness system. It is recommended in the treatment of the following conditions:

Thai massage - this is why before passing the session it is necessary to establish the true cause of the disease, namely the cause of headaches or severe fatigue, so as not to harm the body, since there are contraindications for Thai massage. Just like pills can cure one disease, but harm another.

Who Shouldn't Get Thai Massage

Thai massage is a medical massage, so you should consider what a person's health is and whether he has contraindications for this type of treatment. Here is a list of diseases and conditions in which it is better to refrain from massage.

Exacerbation of chronic diseases.
Recent surgery.
Increased body temperature.
Inflamed wounds on the body.
The presence of skin diseases.
Oncology.
Violation of the cardiovascular system.
Pregnancy.
The presence of mental disorders.
You can not massage the places of damage to muscles, joints, recent fractures.
body intoxication.

The massage therapist cannot act as a doctor. Be sure before you decide to undergo a Thai massage, the benefits and contraindications for you should be clarified together with the doctor. Only after such a consultation and conversation with a massage therapist, you can not harm the body, but provide the necessary assistance. The specialist must take into account the recommendations of the doctor and contraindications. A properly performed Thai massage procedure will have a healing effect on your health.

The benefits of Thai massage

Thai massage is primarily about relaxing the body and relieving stress from the body. And while doing so:

The massaged part of the body is well warmed up.
Significantly improves blood circulation, swelling disappears.
The tension is removed from the muscles, they become more elastic.
Improves skin condition due to blood flow.
Scars are smoothed out.
Breathing becomes deep, even, thereby relieving tension from the nervous system, a person relaxes, stress goes away.
Improves the functioning of the digestive tract. Massage of the stomach area promotes good digestion of food, prevents the formation of gases.
The functioning of the nervous system improves.
Skin rejuvenation occurs.

If you get a Thai massage, the benefits of this procedure will be noticeable after just one session. Also, this procedure can be done for children.

Types of Thai massage

There are two types of Thai massage:

General.
Royal.

General Thai massage is more common and more commonly used in practice. Also, it is taught to everyone who wants to. Its peculiarity is that the massage therapist has close contact with the client and during the massage uses:

Big fingers.
Surface and base of the palm.
Outer side of the wrist.
Elbows and forearm.
Knees and feet.
Bamboo sticks or stones.

Muscle stretching poses are also used.

Royal Thai massage differs from the general one in that the massage therapist is at a certain distance from the body, one foot. He moves around on his knees. The patient does not take a prone position. The massage therapist only uses:

Big fingers.
Rarely the wrist on the outside.

The massage therapist has contact with the patient only by touching him with the working surface of the hands. Perhaps because the royals have the status of immunity. Stretch positions are not used. Massage starts from the knee and continues up the legs, ending with the feet.

No matter what kind of Thai massage you do, the benefits will be noticeable even after one session.

Thai massage can be performed using the following materials:

Herb bags.
Stones.
Thai sticks.
Essential oils.

It is worth noting that Thai massage is carried out on different parts of the body:

Leg and foot massage.
Heads and faces.
Back massage.

By direction, the procedure can be divided into:

Yoga massage. Thai massage with yoga elements helps to engage muscles that do not work with traditional exercises.
Slim massage. This type of Thai massage helps fight cellulite and lose weight. You should be prepared, perhaps even for painful effects.
Tayray massage. This Thai massage is a kind of ritual that puts your mental and physical state in order. In this case, the items indicated earlier can be used, that is, herbal bags, stones, Thai sticks, essential oils.

How to Prepare for a Thai Massage

Thai massage is a procedure for which you need to properly prepare in order to avoid unpleasant consequences. Here are some preparation tips:

Be sure to consult with your doctor if you can do such a massage.
Clothing should be light, natural and not interfere with the effect on the person being massaged.
Jewelry must be removed before the massage session.
It is necessary to eat no later than two hours before the massage.
Before the session, be sure to go to the toilet.
It is necessary to take a shower and do not need to use perfume. The best smell is the smell of a clean body.
In case of discomfort, pain during the massage, this should be reported to the massage therapist. Together with you, he will select a more comfortable one. If there is an allergy to any oil, it is also necessary to notify about this before the session.
Thai massage is performed on a special mattress on the floor. It must be chosen by the masseur himself.
Immediately after the massage procedure, you do not need to get up and leave. It takes a few minutes to lie down to get real pleasure from the procedure. You will immediately feel how your body has come into shape, your mind has become cleaner, and your mood has improved after just one session.
If you want to achieve weight loss, say goodbye to cellulite, then you need to go through several sessions to feel the result. And he really is.
During the session, nothing should distract you. It is better to turn off the phone for this time.

Thai massage is like an escape from reality into a world of comfort and tranquility for recuperation and renewal.

Thai massage technique

Before starting a Thai massage, a true master always reads a mantra in which he addresses the spirit of Dr. Jiva. Its meaning is as follows: the massage therapist asks for the healing of the patient through his body and skill.

The master should be positive and radiate calmness and friendliness. There must be a trusting and positive relationship between the patient and the massage therapist.

The surroundings should be conducive to relaxation. Only such an atmosphere allows you to open energy channels, and the released energy will return the lost strength.

At the very beginning of the session, the main task of the specialist is to ensure that the breath of the massage therapist and the patient coincides. Professionals in their field say that the longer the massage lasts, the better. So, the session can last about one and a half or two and a half hours. This is for a full body massage. If you are short on time, you can focus on one part, such as the feet or back, but do not massage the whole body for 20 minutes, as you will not get the desired effect.

The session begins with kneading the feet. By acting on special points on them, the masseur achieves relaxation of the patient in order to work out all the deep muscles, relieve tension and stiffness from them.

During the entire session, the massage therapist, by his actions, introduces the patient into a trance, as it were, the consciousness of the person changes. This happens due to the use of special points on the body.

Thai massage technique is very similar to passive yoga. At the same time, the massage therapist moves smoothly and rhythmically, as if dancing. With our usual massage, the specialist rubs, kneads and strokes the body, and the Thai massage technique uses very different techniques. Of great importance is the technique of execution in such a procedure as Thai massage. Examples of what techniques are used in this case, we will consider below.

What methods are used

The technique of performing massage consists of special techniques. Let's consider the features of their implementation.

Thumb pressure. Only the pad of the finger is involved. You can press and stretch at the same time, this is the uniqueness of this technique.
Thumb "steps". The fingers are placed close together and alternately press. At the same time, they move in the direction of energy channels.
Palm pressure. They can be combined with hand swings. The arms should be straight. Pressing is done in three ways:

One palm.
Two palms.
"Butterfly".

It should be taken into account that the pressures start with light pressures and gradually move to strong ones.

Pressing is also done with the help of:

Feet.
Buttocks.
Elbow.
knees.

Each of these pressures has its own effectiveness for different parts of the body. So, the middle of the feet is used to massage the thighs, and the heels or the front of the foot are used to massage the buttocks.

The buttocks are more suitable for fixing the torso in order to perform the necessary manipulation.

When using the elbow, more pressure is applied than with the palm, it can be replaced on the top of the forearm if the patient is in pain.

Pressing with the knee frees the massage therapist's hands to stretch.

The master should have an individual approach to everyone if Thai massage is performed. The technique (photos show this) can be used differently.

Pressing while standing. In this case, the patient is under very strong pressure. Care must be taken. Used for the back, legs, arms and buttocks.
Stretching. It is very important to first properly relax the patient and not damage the muscles. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully monitor the reaction of the patient when performing limb stretching.
Ups. You need to do it slowly without jerks. The reception is considered the simplest.
Shaking limbs. It is very effective if the patient is pulled slightly towards you.
Rotations. With a properly performed technique, there is a uniform stretching of the muscles around the joints. Regular exercise will help in the treatment of arthrosis.
Pulling with pushing. In this case, one part of the body must be fixed.

The massage therapist can take various positions near the patient:

sitting.
Sitting on heels, knees.
I'm on one knee.

Special points in Thai massage

When a Thai massage is performed, the masseur's technique necessarily uses special lines on the body along which our life energy moves. There are ten such lines, and all of them originate in the region around the navel, two fingers below the abdominal surface. These lines, like meridians, pass through the whole body in different directions, as if enveloping our body and exit at ten points. These points and lines have their own names:

Sen Itha - the line ends in the left nostril.
Sen Pingkla - line in the right nostril.
Sen Summana - reaches the tip of the tongue.
Sen Kanlatari - is divided into four branches, and they end on the fingers and toes.
Sen Sakhasarungsi - ends in the left eye.
Sen Tavari - in the right eye.
Sen Tiantapusung - ends in the left ear.
Sen Rusum - stops in the right ear.
Sen Sukumung - ends in the anus.
Sen Cicchini - in the urethra.

If you ask the question: "Thai massage - what kind of massage is this?" - You can answer that it is miraculous. This is a procedure for the return and activation of vital energy by influencing vital points and lines.

Thai massage training

Anyone can learn the art of Thai massage. Although many are wondering if strong hands and a strong body are needed for this. Indeed, to perform any manipulations with the body, physical strength is needed. But it is worth noting that Thai massage, a technique for teaching this skill, is primarily based not on a forceful effect on the patient, but on the correct approach to implementation. And as we described above, this is an effect on life lines and special points on the body. Also fragile Thai girls skillfully use the weight of their bodies.

Of course, the Wat Pho Monastery's massage school still remains the most prestigious. This center is considered a southern school. This procedure has been widely developed in the northern part of Thailand. Until now, the Thai massage technique has been improved and enriched with new techniques.

Thai massage is a massage that will undoubtedly have a beneficial effect on your body. The most important thing is that it is performed by a competent specialist, then the benefits will undoubtedly be.

I wanted to show beautiful Thai spas, but I realized that without introductory information, it would just be pictures of beauty. Moreover, where to go and which Thai massage to choose, they probably ask me a little less often than about the weather)

Leaving aside the legends, Thai massage is essentially a combination of Indian, Chinese and South Asian influences and traditional folk medicine techniques, finally molded into something unified in the 19th century. Even now, the styles of Thai massage differ depending on the region and there is no rigid generally accepted scheme, although the Wat Pho school is considered the most respected.

Massage on the beach

On every, even the most deserted Thai beach, there is a bamboo booth with a couple of masseuses and a choice of several types of massage. Koh Samui prices start at 150 baht per session. Budget - is not equivalent to bad and does not mean at all that you will not like it.
The procedure, as elsewhere, begins with washing the feet in a basin, after which the client is laid on a trestle bed and the process begins. I would not advise just doing a classic Thai massage on the beach, especially if you are the first time.

Pros:
- cheap, available.

Minuses:
- most often, low qualification of masters.
- not particularly relaxing environment (heat, wind, rain, mosquitoes, extraneous sounds, masseuses talking, mats on which more than one generation of tourists have lain down);
- the simplest oils - and it's good if it's coconut, not mineral, like Johnson's Baby; in Thailand, it is generally difficult to buy natural ethers right away and, of course, you should not count on it on the beach;
- The choice of massage types is limited to 4-5.

This is what a beach massage looks like:

Massage in a massage parlor

Any Thai street is replete with signs "Thai massage", but there is a moment here - under such a sign there can be a salon of famous Thai, but somewhat more intimate services. Massage there, of course, is also done - all parts of the body)
These "saloons" are located on busy tourist promenades, next to bars and restaurants. In the evening they are actively invited (both men and women) and the appearance of the "masseuses" directly indicates their specialization. No "spa interior" and massage chairs are usually seen.
Here is a classic "massage parlor" in Chaweng. Actually, the sign speaks for itself.

Of course, there are also a lot of massage parlors without such specifics. For example, on Koh Samui there is a My Friend network, they have a huge selection of not only massages, but also spa treatments at reasonable prices.

Pros:
- prices, if higher than on the beach, then not much;
- the qualifications of masseuses are usually higher;
- mats and the general environment is more pleasant;
- independence from the weather;
- Huge selection of massages and spa treatments. Here is an example of the menu of a large salon in Chaweng:

Minuses:
- the situation is better, of course, than on the street, but it strongly depends on the place;
- in tourist areas - high traffic (which means that masseuses get tired more);
- lack of a personal approach;
- distracting conversations of staff and massage neighbors, who are often located through the curtain (I'm lucky to be talkative).

Massage in the spa of 4-5* hotels

If you have the time, money and desire for a complete experience, welcome to the spa at 4-5 star resorts and hotels. I will show two such spas in the next post.

Minuses:
- prices start at 800 baht per session and are limited only by your financial ability. For example, at Tamarind Springs Spa on Koh Samui, an hour and a half massage with herbal sauna will cost about 4,000 baht.

Pros:
- general atmosphere, high level of service and beautiful interiors, conducive to complete relaxation;
- separate rooms for therapy with unobtrusive music, where, apart from you and the masseuse, there will be no one;
- massage tables with a hole for the face - very comfortable and the neck does not get numb;
- high-quality oils that are mixed specifically for the selected type of massage;
- aromatherapy - in addition to oils for the procedure, aroma lamps burn in the rooms;
- usually high qualification of masters and they are rarely tired;
- a huge selection of well-chosen spa treatments;
- extra treats like a foot scrub while washing, herbal tea and light snacks after;
- personal approach;
- most often, the spa has a shop where you can buy good natural cosmetics and oils.

Of course, all of the above is just my personal experience. Legends about super-professional beach masters and blind masseurs roam the Internet, who raise almost lying patients. I have never experienced such miracles.
What to expect from Thai massage? Of course, everything depends on many factors, but the minimum good result will be a feeling of lightness throughout the body, increased blood circulation and an increase in overall tone, excellent health and getting rid of negativity for several hours after the procedure. If done with a balm - the removal of pain. If with oil - soft and supple skin.

The main types of massages in Thailand:

(Classic/Traditional Thai massage) Thai classic/traditional massage- full-body intensive therapy, which is carried out in clothes (it is given out) on a mat on the floor. This is passive yoga, during which deep pressure is used, the patient is vigorously kneaded, folded and twisted. Such a massage can be quite painful, but is considered effective for treating pain and "blockages" in the body, good for the spine, joints and muscles (of course, if done by a pro). Of course, one massage is unlikely to change anything significantly, and at least 3-5 sessions should be taken as therapy. Duration - from 60 minutes to 2.5 hours.

(Thai massage) Thai massage- a light version of the previous one, full body massage, without specials. clothes and some kind of balm. From 60 minutes to one and a half hours.

(Oil Massage)- full body massage with oil (usually coconut). Most loved by tourists for the pleasant sensations during and after. 60-90 minutes.

(Aromatherapy massage) Aromatherapy/anti-stress massage- the same as above, only with the addition of essential oil to the base oil and a little more stroking during the process than pressure. In my opinion, a rather stupid variety, much more relaxation can be obtained from stone therapy, which is also offered in many Thai salons.

(Foot massage) Foot massage- usually done while sitting in a massage chair with a cooling ointment. The best option for tired legs and after long walks. Despite the name, it usually affects the entire back of the body: the legs, from the toes, all the way down to the head and face. The back will not be worked out in as much detail as with the usual one, and foot massage is done with a special stick. 30-40 minutes.

(Head&shoulders massage) Head, shoulder and neck massage- actually a subject, too in a massage armchair. Emphasis on working out the head, face, neck, shoulders and back. About 30 minutes.

(Aloe Vera Massage) Aloe gel massage- for tan lovers, a light massage of the whole body with aloe gel. In my opinion, it is better to do with the same scarlet wrap - less traumatic for the skin and much more effective for sunburn. 40-60 minutes.

(Anticellulite/Slimming massage)- it all depends on the imagination of the salon. It may include both the actual massage itself (two / four hands), and the herbal Thai sauna and bath after. Aggressive study of "problem" zones.
Only a few can do this and the next type of massage correctly. More often than not, you'll just get a good "pinch", leaving a bunch of bruises.

(Lymphatic Drainage Massage) Lymphatic drainage massage- not all salons offer it, and not all who offer it do something different from anti-cellulite. Drainage is a therapeutic massage of the whole body, stimulating the movement of lymph. It is very useful for people with circulatory disorders and those prone to edema. like me)

(Hot Herbal Compress Massage - Prakop) Massage with warm herbal pouches- a great thing for relaxing muscles after strength training or alleviating pain. It was invented for Thai warriors returning from battles) The whole body is first kneaded, and then it is passed through with special, steamed bags of herbs, lingering at specific points.

(Face massage) Facial massage- I didn't do it myself, but for some reason I hear only negative reviews. Like, it’s not a massage at all, but an indistinct cosmetic procedure.

Also, almost all salons and spas offer many other procedures - manicures, pedicures, hair removal, scrubs, face and body masks, herbal saunas, baths, body wraps.

1. Choose masseuses on the beach and in older and more massive salons - they have more experience and stronger fingers. This is especially true for male clients. Of course, they will not line up all the masters in front of you and ask you to point your finger - usually masseuses work in turn, but you can always hint to the manager that you would prefer someone more experienced.
The Internet is full of recommendations on the topic that you should choose only salons where masseurs were trained in Wat Pho, but in fact, I know the only such place on Koh Samui and this is a full-fledged massage school.

If you drive from Bophut towards Choeng Mon beach - on the left side, 100 meters before the green gas station (7 minutes before reaching the beach).

2. Consult with the manager in the salon (or with the masseuse herself on the beach), asking them to advise you on a massage for the first time or if you have any diseases. They are always happy to do it.
Massage cannot be done:
- after a heavy meal;
- after drinking alcohol;
- if you have a temperature;
- in the presence of severe skin damage (including sunburn) and injuries (fractures, etc.);
- for back pain of unknown origin.

During pregnancy and varicose veins, some of the varieties are not allowed, and both the manager and the masseuse must be warned about this.

3. Even if you were given to fill out a questionnaire before visiting, once again personally tell or show with gestures to your masseuse right before the session where you cannot press, if such places exist or which of the plants you are allergic to. Even in the most decent spas, managers in 95% of cases do not pass this information on to the masters.
During the massage itself, you will definitely be asked if everything is in order - feel free to say if something is wrong.

4. Remove makeup before going to the salon. Masseurs don't care what's on your face, and they will touch it, even if you ordered only a foot massage. And take a shower before the therapy (ideally with a scrub) so that everything you will be smeared with is applied to clean skin and can be absorbed normally. Usually spas have showers, regular salons don't.

5. Do not ask for "harder" if you are the first time or are not 100% sure of the master's qualifications. I always do the softest massage, one experience with "medium" was enough for a lifetime)

6. Rumors about the "miraculous" properties of massage in Thailand, in my opinion, are somewhat exaggerated. Removal of pain syndrome is most often achieved by using herbal balms in the process, which have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect to a much greater extent than the pressure itself. These balms, of course, are wonderful, but they cost a penny and are available in any pharmacy.

7. If you do not want your masseuse to be tired, it is better to go for a massage in the morning. Yes, and the bulk of massages are more tonic than relaxing therapy (with the exception of anti-stess/relax massages).

8. It is customary to leave tips everywhere (if you liked the massage, of course). Usually it is 10% of the cost of therapy personally to the master. In resorts - look at the spa menu, in Thailand often 10% tip + 7% tax is already included in the price and it is written there.

9. Be polite, smile :) You will definitely be reciprocated.

If you have any questions about Thai massage - please in the comments, I will help you in any way I can.

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One should not miss the opportunity to experience such procedures performed by the Thais themselves, who have kept their specific traditions of this art for centuries. Moreover, in this exotic country of Southeast Asia there are many spas where you can get in touch with the ancient Thai traditions of body care and understand what is actually hidden behind the oriental concept of harmony of body and soul.

The sacred meaning of Thai massage

Thai massage has long been considered a kind of ritual associated with Buddhist traditions, and is a combination of philosophical and medical knowledge aimed at achieving a harmonious balance of human energy and health, and its founder is considered to be a friend of the great Buddha - doctor Bhachchhu (Shiuago), who is also credited with the creation of the entire. Such a massage includes a number of complex manipulations, including stretching and squeezing, and is aimed at improving the circulation of vital energy throughout the body, which is carried out by pressing on certain points on the body. Therefore, it is no coincidence that massage in Thailand is considered one of the most beneficial procedures that affect the state of the body and soul.

All this significantly distinguishes classical Thai massage from similar procedures standard for the West and makes it one of the most ancient medical practices of this eastern country.

Types of massage in Thailand

This type includes far from erotic activities, with which most people associate such procedures in Thailand, but massage of the back, arms and legs, neck and head. Thai massage therapists devote most of the total time of all procedures to foot massage.

The most relaxing type of Thai massage, the main task of which is to relieve nervous tension and fatigue. Such a massage is considered rejuvenating and tonic.

Relaxing oil massage

This is far from a traditional Thai massage option, since Tibet is its homeland, but such procedures are especially often offered in massage parlors in Thailand. This is one of the most relaxing types of massage treatments. To carry out such a massage, Thais, in combination with aromatic oils, use various stones of volcanic origin, which are heated to certain temperatures.

They also do a massage with alternating hot and cold stones. All these procedures improve well-being and help strengthen the immune system. Such a massage lasts up to 1.5 hours, and it is best to do it at the end of the day.

Massage with hot stones

This type of massage is one of the most traditional variations offered in Thailand. Although it may seem quite painful, after such procedures, one feels incredible ease when walking, which compensates for the unpleasant sensations caused by the combination of pressure with the hands and special wands of the masseuse on pain points.

This massage improves joint mobility and helps relieve fatigue from the legs after long walks. Usually, an express version of a foot massage lasts no more than half an hour, but you can also order an hour-long relaxation for the legs.

This is another popular massage destination offered to tourists in Thailand. To get a tangible effect from such a massage, the procedure should last at least 2 hours, but for the first time it is better to limit yourself to 1.5. One campaign also will not give anything significant. You need at least 3-4 such sessions.

The acupressure itself is very painful and often traumatic, so before deciding on such procedures, you should be very careful about choosing a salon in Thailand where you can undergo them. Acupressure can be skillfully performed only by an experienced professional.

Acupressure can be painful

A separate exotic option that can be offered to tourists in Thailand is a massage for the blind. Since the perception of the world in people with limited vision is more related to touching things around them, the massage they perform seems to be something incredible. You can find such salons mainly in the north, and you can find out that it is here that massage is carried out by such masters by a sign depicting a man with a cane. You can order a trip to such a salon as an excursion.

Thai erotic massage (body massage)

Separately, it is worth noting about this variety, with which massage in Thailand is most often associated among representatives of Western civilization. This type of massage has nothing to do with ancient Thai massage with medical aspects and is considered a light version of sex services offered in Thailand.

Erotic massage is popular among men

The main myth about Thai massage

There are many myths around Thai massage. One of the most common misconceptions is that Europeans often perceive all kinds of massage in Thailand as something inextricably linked with erotica. Indeed, masseuses in this country can offer erotic massage, which includes stroking the client's body, almost on every corner, but this is far from a classic Thai massage. Therefore, these concepts should not be confused.

In general, massage in Thailand is definitely worth a try to understand how these procedures, carried out by the Thais themselves, differ from similar procedures offered in European spas. In addition, Thai massage will simply allow you to experience incredible relaxation in this amazing oriental country, which impresses with its exotic flavor.

Massage salons and schools in Thailand

In Thailand, there are many different schools of massage, each of which offers its own specific approach, but in general they distinguish the southern and northern directions - purely according to the territorial principle of their distribution.

There are many places in Thailand where you can find out what a real Thai massage is. Therefore, you can find an option for every taste and a wallet that has such pleasure: from the most luxurious spa centers to simple tents on the beaches. In small salons in various cities of Thailand, you can always order the most typical option for this country - foot massage. Before carrying out procedures in any salon, clients are given spacious loose clothes, which allows the massage therapist to feel the body well and carry out all manipulations with maximum effect.

In resort towns, massage parlors are located almost every 10 meters, many hotels also offer massage services.

Massage courses in Thailand

If you wish to partially master the intricacies of Thai massage, you can contact one of the monasteries in Thailand, where they teach the basics of this art, including foreigners, and for a rather symbolic payment.

It is unlikely that you will be able to become a master of Thai massage, but you will be taught the basics of this art with all the specifics, and you will definitely be able to pamper your relatives with such exoticism. For example, within the walls of the Wat Po temple in Bangkok, you can complete such a course in 10 days. Here you can simply find out what is the best acupressure in Thailand. On the territory of this temple, which is considered a kind of analogue of the Thai medical university, you can admire stone sculptures depicting various scenes of standard Thai massage techniques.

You can take such courses in specialized schools, where tuition prices are already significantly higher, but the masters of the Thai art of body relaxation who teach are no worse than in monasteries. For example, in the same approximate cost of a basic Thai massage course will be up to 8500 baht, and the professional course 24 thousand baht. The advantage of such courses is teaching in English, which simplifies learning. One of the best Thai massage schools is located in Chiang Mai, but there are many such courses in Bangkok.

The most expensive massage in Thailand is offered in hotels and major spas. But if you want to save money, you should not be tempted by the very cheap offers of massage therapists wandering along the beaches. Do not think that every Thai ideally owns the art of massage.

The best option - visit several small salons and assess the situation there: the number of visitors, the neatness of the master who performs the massage, the favorable appearance of the salon itself, which will help you make a good choice if you do not have acquaintances who could give reliable recommendations where to go.

We advise you to go for a massage for an hour and a half or two - no less, otherwise you will not be able to feel the full effect of these original Thai procedures on your body. It is best to choose to visit the evening and daytime.
When choosing a massage therapist, it is better to give preference to older strong Thais with a lot of experience, which can be easily detected by watching how they massage other clients.

For those who suffer from varicose veins, Thai foot massage is strictly contraindicated.