Thailand Spas

The Talk of the Global Village

Just a decade ago, only a handful of people knew exactly what a "spa" was, and even fewer had enjoyed first-hand experience.

Today, spas have become the talk of the global village. Thousands of places have been springing up all over the world offering "spa" facilities in response to the demand.

Thailand has been on the cutting edge of this trend. With its tradition of natural healing arts such as ancient Thai massage, natural springs, an abundance of medicinal flora and a deserved reputation for excellent service, Thailand was ready to accommodate the demand and literally hundreds of spas have sprung up over the past few years.

Whether you are a spa veteran, or thinking of venturing into the world of spas for the first time, it is important to have a little background knowledge about all the things a spa vacation can be. There are endless types of treatments and special programs plus varying levels of luxury, price and value.

Spa - Highly Specialized Therapies

The great thing about spas is that they have devised hundreds of ways of making you feel good. Centuries of tradition, common sense and imagination have resulted in pastes, mud packs, specialized oils, countless muscle kneading techniques, hot and cold water jets aimed from various angles and pressure points that have been mixed and matched to create highly specialized therapies to suit the requirements of the spa visitor. Whichever suits you, they all feel good at the time and afterwards - who says medicine has to taste bad?

Type of Spas in Thailand

Acupressure

Acupressure is a traditional massage that originated in Asia. It is based on the belief that the body's energy flow can be disrupted by trauma, injury and illness, that in turn creates isolated pockets of muscle tension, that block important nerve pathways. By applying pressure to these points, the tension is released and the energies can flow freely and naturally. On a more scientific note, some studies have shown that the pressure releases natural endorphins into the system, promoting relaxation and healing.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage combines the traditional kneading-style massage with essential oils that have various specialized effects on the body and mind through both the skin and inhalation. The pressure tends to be lighter than with the "Swedish" massage, allowing the oils to do much of the work.

Ayurvedic Massage

Originating in India, Ayurveda, is an ancient holistic medicine promoting the unity of body, mind and spirit. Most spas that don't actually specialise in this form of medicine have adopted a few of Ayurveda's extensive range of treatments. Ayurvedic massage unblocks invisible points of energy flow, enabling the body to heal itself more effectively. These massages can include thorough scalp massage and body kneading performed by two therapists simultaneously, generally using special scented oils.

Deep-tissue Massage

Deep-tissue massage can be pretty intense for the newcomer - though very effective. The therapist works deep into the muscles to separate traumatized muscles that remain tight from extreme tension of injury. It can be a bit painful, since it involves manipulating the fascia, a thin tissue that connects muscle tissue.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is favoured by athletes since it tends to concentrate on muscle groups relevant to the activities that particular person performs. It is a deep massage and can be slightly painful for the uninitiated.

Modern Spa Experience

Spa treatments are now such a rage that it's easy to forget that a little over ten years ago there was no spa facilities here. Soon after the opening of Banyan Tree Spa Phuket in 1993, Thailand started to gain a reputation as a new spa destination. The country now has a multitude of spas that are attracting new groups of visitors, some of whom planning their trips as pure spa vacation. Almost all spas have integrated traditional healing into their programs.

Destination Spas in Thailand

Destination spas are resorts that are completely dedicated to spa treatments. Their numbers are growing but they are the rarest type of spa, and usually the most expensive as well. All of the guests are there for the purpose of following a treatment program, whether for slimming, relaxation, detoxifying, or increasing their energy levels. The programs, which require a thorough consultation, tend to be very extensive and dedicated, including special menus, exercise programs, hydrotherapy, skin treatment, massages - everything you could possibly need.Chiva-Som is perhaps the most famous spa destination in Thailand. According to the Conde Nast Traveller readers who voted, the best overseas spas in the world are locate in Thailand and Bali. Chiva-Som received highest ratings for food/restaurants, ambience/decor and standard/comfort of accommodation.

Popular Spa Programs in Thailand

There are many benefits to be had from visiting a spa. Various treatments can clean out toxins from the system, tighten sagging skin, reduce cellulite, promote relaxation or help you overcome persistent fatigue. Though some may wish to sample a range of treatments, any spa worth its sea salt has specific programs to concentrate on specific goals that its patrons might wish to achieve.The most popular Spa programs are given below.

Slimming, Weight Reduction & Firming with Spa
Cleansing and Detoxifying Spas
Relaxing & Anti-Stressing with Spa

Health Retreats in Thailand

These places tend to be very specialized in their approach to treating you, focusing on a specific kind of treatment over a long period of a week or more. Sometimes they are simple affairs with basic accommodation. They are usually somewhat isolated to encourage you to concentrate on the program. For some they can feel like a voluntary concentration camp, and may be a bit extreme, requiring a degree of self-discipline. It is important to know what you are getting into.One example of such a "spa" is one that administers a regimen of vitamins, fibre pills and regular enemas, with no food whatsoever, for up to 10 days - though there are other types that are far less frightening. This type is favoured by those who wish to lose weight quickly, detoxify their system, and/or quit drugs or alcohol.

Final Word

You won't find a better place to relax and restore than in one of Thailand's many top quality spas. Whether for weight loss, rejuvenation, or just letting go of the stresses of modern life, you can find the perfect place and tailor your program to suit your exact needs.