In Thailand, there is a belief that relaxing both the body and the mind leads to better health. This includes relieving stiffness, improving the flow of energy in the body, and regulating the body and breathing. Medical care using massage has been developed since ancient times. Massage shops can be found throughout the city, including near Wat Pho, which is considered the head temple of ancient massage.
In recent years, spas have also become popular, and in major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, and Hua Hin, there are an increasing number of shops that offer day spas such as single-family spas in spa facilities in shopping malls as well as hotels. In addition, the medical spa that combines the tradition of oriental medicine with the latest western medicine is also attracting attention, and you can experience the relaxing hospitality unique to a Thai spa.
Anywhere in Thailand
Relax the whole body with a traditional 御徒町 タイマッサージ that has been around since the Ayutthaya dynasty
Traditional Thai massage, which takes time to press pressure points and stretch muscles, is also popular in Japan. It is said to have originated from ancient Ayurveda in India and was introduced to Thailand along with Buddhism. After the Ayutthaya dynasty, the treatment methods were compiled by the court doctors, and the murals, cast images, and lithographs recorded by King Rama III (1824-1851) remain in Wat Pho. According to it, by stimulating the energy lines called “Sen” that are stretched throughout the body, it is possible to enhance the healing power and immunity originally possessed and revitalize the body. In addition, by applying a steamed herbal ball filled with various herbs called “Samunplai” to the pressure points, it has the effect of relaxing muscles and improving blood circulation. It is also popular that you can receive a traditional massage and a herbal ball massage as a set, and you can also learn these massage techniques at the massage service center in Wat Pho, the head temple, and at schools certified by the Ministry of Health and Sanitation.
Wat Pho: “Lucy Dutton”, an ancient Thai health method
Ancient gymnastics “Lucy Dutton”, which is also a self-massage transmitted to Thailand, is a Thai health method similar to yoga, and takes various poses according to the timing of breathing. By loosening the muscles and joints of the whole body, the internal organs are also stimulated, and the whole body is in good condition. At Wat Pho in Bangkok, it is held every morning from around 8:00 for about 30 minutes in front of the massage service center on the east side of the main hall (cancelled in case of rain). Originally there were 127 poses, but only 25 poses remain in the historical materials of Wat Pho. About 15 of them can be experienced, and travelers can participate for free (100 baht entrance fee to Wat Pho is required). In addition, some hotels in each area offer experience classes.
Bangkok / Chiang Mai / Hua Hin, etc – hotels and spas with a refined atmosphere
In major tourist cities such as Bangkok, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai, there are many first-class hotels that offer top-class spas. In a relaxing space where you can feel as if you are in another world while being in the city center, you can enjoy the high technology of skilled therapists and the hospitality unique to Thailand. Incorporating new techniques from massage advanced countries such as India and Sweden, we pursue comfort both inside and outside the body. Thailand’s hotels and spas are loved by celebrities all over the world and always provide the highest level of service. It is often packaged with a hotel stay, so you can easily experience it during your stay.
Bangkok and others: Much-talked-about medical spas
A medical spa with the latest medical equipment, where you can receive spa treatments tailored to your individual constitution under the diagnosis of a doctor. At facilities that are mainly in Bangkok, there are a wide variety of menus that pursue “beauty, health, and youth,” from whitening to anti-aging. There are places where specialists are stationed, and there are places where hospitals have medical spas equipped with the facilities of first-class hotels, so you can use them according to your purpose. Many facilities also have restaurants that serve healthy meals, so you can spend a relaxing day.
Bangkok and others – Spa goods made in Thailand
In Thailand, natural soaps, shampoos, bath oils, and body creams made with ingredients like roses, orchids, lemongrass, and tropical fruits are very popular and are often purchased as souvenirs. Among the more than 80 types of aroma candles and oils available, some brands are used by 5-star hotels around the world, attesting to the high quality of Thai spa products. Shops selling these spa products can be found in Bangkok’s shopping areas, including shopping malls in Siam and Sukhumvit.
Ellen Diamond, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
