Thai massage in Zrenjanin: what it is like and who it suits

Thai massage is done on a mat, over comfortable clothing and without oil. The therapist combines rhythmic pressure with the palms, thumbs and elbows with passive stretches, moving your body through yoga-like positions while you simply lie back and relax. At Fizio Spa in central Zrenjanin it is offered in 45-, 60- or 90-minute sessions and is a good choice when you want both relaxation and mobility.

Marko Ćurčić, founder of Fizio Spa, studied Thai massage at the school of the Wat Po Buddhist temple in Bangkok, the best-known school of this tradition in the world. “I liked the concept so much that I packed my bags and went to learn it at the source,” Marko writes. In this article we explain what the treatment is like, who it suits and who it is not the first choice for.

What is Thai massage?

Thai massage is a traditional technique believed to have originated some 2,500 years ago in Buddhist monasteries in Thailand. It combines principles of Indian Ayurveda, Asian acupressure (shiatsu, tui na) and assisted stretches similar to yoga poses. That is why it is often called Thai yoga massage.

The tradition speaks of the body’s “energy lines” (Sen), which the therapist works along with pressure. Whatever you make of that explanation, what you will feel is clear: rhythmic pressure on the muscles, rolling of the limbs, gentle rocking and stretches that are hard to do on your own.

What is the treatment like?

• The treatment is done on a mat or a low, wide table rather than a standard massage table.
• You stay dressed, in comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement (leggings or tracksuit bottoms and a T-shirt).
• No oils or creams are used, so it is also a good choice for sensitive skin.
• The therapist guides you through positions on your back, side and stomach, and even sitting up.
• You are not asked to do any work, just to relax completely and breathe calmly.

That is why Marko calls it “yoga for the unmotivated”: the stretching effect is similar to a good yoga class, but the therapist does the work for you.

What can you expect after the massage?

After a Thai massage most people feel a lighter, more mobile body, more relaxed muscles and more energy. Unlike a classic relaxation massage, after which you would rather lie down, Thai massage often “wakes you up”, so it is a good choice even when you have things to do after your appointment.

The stretches that are part of the treatment improve range of motion, especially in the hips, shoulders and back. This suits people who sit for long periods, as well as recreational athletes who lack flexibility.

Who does it suit, and who is it not the first choice for?

Thai massage suits people who:

• want a massage fully clothed and without oil,
• have stiff hips, back or shoulders from sitting,
• like stretching but find it hard to motivate themselves to do it,
• want to feel fresh and energised after the treatment.

Honestly, it is not the best choice for your very first massage. The movements are specific and the experience is different from anything you have heard about massage, so it takes a little trust in the therapist. For a first time, a relaxation massage or a therapeutic massage is usually a better fit. If you have an acute injury, recent back pain, a high temperature or are pregnant, let us know before booking and we will choose a safer treatment together.

Thai massage and shiatsu: what is the difference?

Shiatsu is an older Japanese technique. The name means “finger pressure”: the therapist works with the thumbs, palms and fingers, and for stronger pressure uses the forearms and their own body weight rather than muscle strength. Shiatsu is also done on a mat, over light clothing.

Thai massage is, as Marko puts it, the “younger brother” of shiatsu: alongside pressure it involves much more stretching and moving of the body. Shiatsu is calmer and focuses more on pressure. At Fizio Spa we offer shiatsu as part of the Touch of Asia package, together with Indian head massage, Thai reflexology and volcanic stones.

How long does it take and how much does it cost?

Thai massage at Fizio Spa lasts 45, 60 or 90 minutes. For the full stretching experience we recommend 60 or 90 minutes. Current prices are in the price list, and you can choose an appointment online through our Fresha profile.

Frequently asked questions

Is Thai massage done fully clothed?

Yes. Thai massage is done over comfortable clothing and without oil. Bring leggings or tracksuit bottoms and a T-shirt you can move freely in.

Does Thai massage hurt?

The pressure can be strong, but it should not be painful. The therapist adjusts the pressure and the range of the stretches to you, and you can say it is too much at any moment.

How long does a Thai massage last?

At Fizio Spa it lasts 45, 60 or 90 minutes. For your first experience of this technique, 60 minutes is the best choice.

How does it differ from shiatsu massage?

Both techniques are done on a mat and over clothing. Shiatsu relies on pressure from the thumbs and palms, while Thai massage adds a lot of passive stretching and movement of the body.

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