In this guide
What traditional Thai massage is
It comes from Thailand, where it is called nuad Thai. UNESCO added it to its list of intangible cultural heritage in 2019. The therapist works with their hands, elbows, knees and feet. Unlike most massages there's no oil and no kneading, and much of the session is passive stretching: the therapist puts you into yoga-like positions and does the stretching for you.
Traditionally it's done on a mat on the floor, but many studios use a table. If it matters to you, ask when you book.
Traditional Thai or oil massage
The studios on this list also do an oil massage, and that's a different experience. For an oil massage you lie on a table, undress, and the therapist covers you with a towel or sheet and puts oil straight on your skin. If you're not sure which one a studio means, ask when you book.
The differences, one by one: traditional, oil or deep tissue.
What to wear
For traditional Thai, loose, comfortable clothes you can stretch in. The studios on this list give you loose clothes to change into, so you don't need to bring anything special. You stay dressed for the whole session.
What to tell them before you book
Be open about your health. Massage affects several systems in the body, including the heart and circulation and the nervous system. Check with your doctor before booking if you have:
- High blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes or cancer.
- Recent surgery, or an injury you're still recovering from.
- A bleeding disorder or a blood vessel disorder.
- Open wounds or burns.
Move your appointment if you have a fever, a skin irritation such as sunburn, or if you're in the middle of adjusting a medication, because massage can affect the dose you need.
Before you go: food, water and getting there
Don't eat just before, and drink plenty of water in the days leading up to it. On a first visit you may be asked to fill in a health form, so arrive early enough to do it without rushing.
What happens during the massage
The therapist starts gently, then moves on to stretches and yoga-like positions. They will move your legs, arms and back, and at times pull or rock your body. Plenty of people fall asleep, because there's nothing for them to do.
Pressure, and when to speak up
Thai massage can feel intense, but it shouldn't hurt. A trained therapist adjusts the intensity and pressure to suit you, so tell them at the time if it's too firm or too light. Say so as well if you're cold or don't want an area touched. You can ask for changes or stop the session at any time.
After the massage
Stay lying down for a few minutes before you get up, especially if you feel light-headed. Feeling your muscles afterwards is normal and usually passes within about a day and a half. Drink water, rest, and keep any exercise light. If the soreness is intense or lasts more than a couple of days, see a doctor.
More on that in sore after a massage.
