Why it works: traditional Thai massage at Thai Square Spa

What is a traditional Thai massage?

A traditional Thai massage (also called Nuad Thai) is a holistic therapy that brings together a combination of acupressure, stretching, and assisted yoga movements. It's a deeply ingrained part of Thai culture, tradition and healthcare, intended to help rebalance the body. One of its defining characteristics, distinct from other massage techniques, is that it’s performed fully clothed and without the use of oils and products.

UNESCO writes: "As a non-medicinal remedy and manual therapy, it involves bodily manipulation in which the practitioner helps rebalance the patient’s body, energy and structure to treat illnesses believed to be caused by the obstruction of energy flow along ‘sen’, lines understood to crisscross the human body. This manipulation is intended to normalize the four body elements: earth, water, wind and fire."

What’s the history of traditional Thai massage?

An inherent part of the Thai way of life, Thai massage is one of the country's most revered therapies, now practiced around the world. It's said that this ancient healing practice dates back centuries, but the earliest documentation (writes the BBC), "is a royal decree from 1455". It continues to be practised by Buddhist monks today, handed down through generations.

What does a traditional Thai massage involve at Thai Square Spa?

True to its heritage, Thai Square Spa's traditional Thai massage is a 'dry' massage (without oils and products). They give guests a set of traditional Thai pyjamas to wear throughout the treatment, and offer two versions of the massage - a back, neck, shoulder option or a full-body massage. Each uses a blend of deep tissue massage featuring pressure points and ancient stretching techniques to release tension, increase vitality and flexibility, and create a sense of wholeness of the mind, body and spirit.

Who is a traditional Thai massage good for?

Traditional Thai massage is great for anyone who feels the aches, pains, and stiffness that go with the everyday rigours of life. If you're used to sitting at a desk all day and end up with aching muscles, you suffer from stress, or even if you work out or play sport and find your body is tense, it's a great treatment for you. The back and neck are typically the main focus areas, and it's an intense form of massage, so if you know you like a treatment that really helps to untangle those knots then it's a great option.

Who is a traditional Thai massage not recommended for?

It's an intense form of massage, so it's not recommended for anyone under the age of 18, if you are pregnant, or if you're being treated for any illnesses including cancer or recent surgeries. If you prefer lighter massages then it might also not be the best choice for you. We have a lot of alternative treatments that we can recommend during pregnancy, or during treatment for serious illnesses like cancer. If you want to try a traditional Thai massage for the first time you can also welcome to ask your therapist to ease the pressure.

What do you suggest guests do before or after their spa treatment to enhance the experience?

A visit to Thai Square Spa is an opportunity to really unwind. We suggest that you take time to use the thermal facilities before your treatment so you warm up the muscles and help you relax. That will make the treatment more effective. In addition, spend time in the relaxation room afterwards. There are herbal teas and water available - all our teas come from Thailand. We particularly recommend our Bael Fruit tea, which is a traditional Thai drink with a wonderful aroma and great anti-inflammatory properties.