I think I've had enough massages to give my thoughts and opinions of them.
It took me nearly 2 weeks of being here in Thailand before I had my first massage. I was nervous and apprehensive that I'd leave feeling worse than I went in, so it was a good job I met Anne Sophie. We both needed some TLC and I felt brave being in her company. I opted for a 1 hour Thai massage, whilst Anne Sophie had a back, shoulder and neck massage.
A Thai massage should really last 2 hours long for an authentic experience. One hour was fine, but it really isn't enough time for them to work your muscles and pop your joints! I did enjoy the first massage, but the masseuse pushed a little too hard on my back. I still left feeling like I had taken off a 10kg bag!
My second massage was 2 hours long. I had it after cycling up Doi Suthep. My body has not had that sort of exercise for well over a year (if ever), so I was in a lot of pain! Funny thing about this massage is the fact that it was my best and worst so far.
The reasons for being the worst is because I was in agony! Don't be fooled by tiny Thai women, they're strong! She prodded, kneeled, pushed and shoved me, causing bruises on my legs and bottom. An unforgettable experience that almost caused me to cry!
On the other hand it was the best massage because she bent me in all weird positions that really opened me up and released the tension I'd been holding for a long time. Also, my spine cracked all the way down and I felt like I was reborn! No one has managed to live up to this.
I have had an oil massage, which was pleasant but not effective. I hold tension in my shoulders and upper back and no masseuse has managed to get the knots out.
Today I had another 2 hour Thai massage and I actually fell asleep! It was so relaxing, perhaps I should have requested it to be hard and bendy like the earlier one because I'm pretty sure you're not meant to fall asleep!
I have also had a reflexology foot massage, which was second best massage in my life. I may treat myself again when I go back to Bangkok next week. It is at the Rasayana retreat (where I stuff my face with raw vegan food).
So, after having a few massages I can report that my favourite body parts to be massaged are my feet, calves, hands, shoulders, neck and head. I think I'll avoid the Thai massages in future and get ones that focus on what I like instead.
Thailand is so cheap for massages that you must budget them into your trip, definitely not to be missed!
Jennifer x
