Thai
massage relies primarily on stretching the body
and applying pressure to certain sensitive points,
rather than the scooping and rubbing used in other
forms. Thai proponents are able to feel each client's
point of resistance, and are able to bend and
stretch the body without inflicting pain.
Thai
massage is based on the theory that the human
body consists of nearly 72,000 energy lines, similar
to those of Chinese acupuncture. Thai masseuses
and masseurs work along those lines of energy,
rather than adhere to traditional western anatomical
science. Recently an effort has been made to tie
western anatomy and traditional Thai massage,
to make the techniques more rational and understandable
to western students. However, the basic practices
still remain faithful to the traditional school
of thought.
Massage
parlors can be found all over Bangkok, but only a few offer
genuine Thai or traditional massage ('nuad paen boran'). Many
other so-called massage parlors offer massage together with
sexual services. Just because it says traditional massage
on the sign doesn't always mean that's what you'll get inside.
Many
hotels offer traditional massage in the fitness center or
as a room service but prices are often quite expensive. Reasonably
priced places are concentrated in the tourist areas along
Sukhumvit, Silom and Surawong Roads, between Thaniya and Patpong.
Here the fees range from around 100 baht to 300 baht per hour,
with the standard course lasting two hours. Many places also
offer oil massages (usually more expensive), foot massages,
aromatherapy massages and reflexology. Usually, women or blind
men, who train as masseurs for a vocation, provide the massage
services.
Wat
Pho, Bangkok's largest temple, is widely considered the center
of learning for Thai massage. Here, a massage costs 200 baht
per hour in an outdoor 'sala'. Massage instruction courses
are also available.
