By the team at St Albans Thai Massage · Last updated 12 November 2026
Thai massage is a traditional treatment from Thailand that combines acupressure, slow rhythmic pressure and assisted stretching. Your therapist uses their palms, thumbs, forearms and sometimes elbows to work along the body, and moves you through gentle stretches.
What happens in a session
At our salon every treatment is given on a massage table. Your therapist will ask about any areas you want worked on or avoided and how much pressure you like. A full-body session usually starts at the feet and legs and works up to the back, shoulders, neck and head. You can ask for more or less pressure at any point.
The main types
- Traditional Thai massage: no oil, clothes on, with acupressure and stretching.
- Thai hot oil massage: warm oil, long strokes and Thai palm pressure. More flowing and relaxing.
- Thai Deep Mix: our most popular treatment, a head-to-toe blend of Thai massage and deep tissue.
- Aromatherapy Thai massage: oil massage on Thai pressure points with a choice of oils.
Does it hurt?
It should not. Thai massage can be firm, and a tight muscle may feel tender while it is being worked on, but the pressure is always yours to set. Tell your therapist if anything is too much.
How is it different from other massage?
Swedish massage is mostly long gliding strokes with oil. Deep tissue concentrates slow, firm pressure on knots. Thai massage adds pressure-point work and stretching, so many people find it leaves them feeling looser as well as relaxed.
Who is it for?
Most adults can enjoy it, from first-timers to regulars. If you have an injury or a medical condition, check with your GP first and tell us when you book. We do not offer pregnancy massage.
Where does Thai massage come from?
Thai massage has been practised in Thailand for centuries and is still taught in temples and specialist schools there. It is sometimes described as assisted stretching, because the therapist moves you through positions while applying pressure. Our experienced, qualified Thai therapists use these traditional techniques.
How long is a session and what does it cost?
Sessions are 60 or 90 minutes. At St Albans Thai Massage, 60 minutes is £70 and 90 minutes is £105. Sixty minutes covers the whole body at a steady pace, and ninety gives extra time for areas that need it.
What should I do before and after?
Avoid a heavy meal in the hour beforehand and arrive a few minutes early. Tell your therapist about any injuries or areas to avoid. Afterwards, drink some water and take it easy for the rest of the day if you had a firm treatment. See what to wear and how often to come.
Is Thai massage good for a first massage?
Yes. Ask for light to medium pressure the first time and tell your therapist it is your first visit. If you would rather start with oil and no stretching, Swedish massage or Thai hot oil are gentle introductions.