As someone who has transitioned from the fast-paced demands of a full-time career to the more balanced and reflective life I now lead, I’ve come to appreciate the simple yet profound pleasures of self-care. Massage, in particular, has always been a cornerstone of my wellness routine. When I was working full-time, a weekend massage was more of a necessity than a luxury. It was my way of resetting, of shaking off the week’s stress, and preparing myself for the week ahead. Now, with my extended sabbatical, massage remains a beloved ritual, though it’s no longer a weekly fixture. Instead, I indulge in this soothing practice during my frequent stays in Bangkok—a city that, for me, has become synonymous with relaxation and renewal.

Why Bangkok?

Bangkok is a city where massage is woven into the fabric of daily life. From the bustling streets lined with modest Thai massage shops to the serene, upscale spas tucked away in luxury hotels, the city offers an incredible range of massage experiences. What’s fascinating is that despite the vast array of options, there’s something inherently healing about the practice, regardless of the price tag attached. Whether I’m opting for a basic street-level Thai massage or splurging on a fancy oil massage, the outcome is the same: a sense of deep relaxation and a feeling that my body and mind are in better alignment.

The Merits of Thai Massage: My “Lazy Yoga”

Thai massage is something I affectionately refer to as “lazy yoga.” It’s a nickname that I think perfectly captures the essence of this traditional practice. Unlike other types of massage where you passively lie on the table, Thai massage involves a lot of movement. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to manipulate your body into various yoga-like stretches. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself being pulled, twisted, and stretched in ways that might seem intense at first. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do anything except breathe and relax. That’s the beauty of it—hence, “lazy yoga.”

For those of us over 50, Thai massage offers some unique benefits. The stretching helps to improve flexibility, something that naturally diminishes as we age. It also increases circulation, which can help with any number of age-related issues, from arthritis to muscle stiffness. Personally, I find that a good Thai massage leaves me feeling both energized and relaxed—a combination that’s not easy to achieve.

And then there’s the affordability factor. In Bangkok, you can get a Thai massage for as little as THB350. This makes it easy to incorporate into your routine, even if you’re on a budget. The quality, even at the lower end of the price spectrum, is usually quite high. The therapists are skilled, often with years of experience, and they know how to tailor the massage to your specific needs. If you’re feeling particularly tight or have an old injury that needs attention, just let them know—they’re usually more than happy to adjust their technique accordingly.

The Luxurious Comfort of Oil Massage

While Thai massage is all about movement and stretch, oil massage is its more indulgent cousin. Here, the focus shifts to the soothing, repetitive strokes that lull you into a state of deep relaxation. The oils used are often aromatic, adding a sensory element that further enhances the experience. I’ve always loved the feeling of warm oil being gently kneaded into my skin—it’s as if the tension is being coaxed out of my body with each stroke.

One of the things I appreciate most about oil massage is the sense of luxury it provides. Even a mid-tier oil massage in Bangkok, which might cost around THB1,300, feels incredibly indulgent. The rooms are often dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background, and the scent of essential oils wafting through the air. It’s a full sensory experience that leaves you feeling pampered and cared for.

For active agers like myself, oil massage is particularly beneficial. It helps to nourish the skin, which can become dry and thin as we age. The gentle pressure used in oil massage is also excellent for improving circulation without being too intense on the muscles. After 60 to 90 minutes on the massage table, I often feel like I’ve been wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and comfort—a feeling that can last for hours afterward.

A Special Treat: The Ultra-Fancy Massage

Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the ultra-fancy massages that are available in Bangkok. These are the kinds of massages that you reserve for special occasions—like your birthday or a milestone celebration. They’re not cheap, often costing upwards of THB4,500, but they offer an experience that’s unparalleled in terms of luxury and service.

These high-end massages often take place in exclusive spas located within five-star hotels or luxurious wellness centers . The environment exudes opulence—think marble floors, plush furnishings, and service that makes you feel like royalty. Treatments are elaborate, combining elements of:

1. Traditional Thai massage
2. Oil massage
3. Aromatherapy
4. Hot stone therapy
5. Herbal compresses

Many spas offer unique experiences, such as the Four Hands Synchronised Massage or Coco Siam Experience. Guests can often enjoy complementary facilities like steam rooms, saunas, and whirlpools . Post-massage, a dedicated relaxation room allows you to extend your blissful state, completing a truly indulgent wellness journey.

For me, these massages are more than just a way to relax—they’re a way to celebrate life. They serve as a reminder that we deserve to indulge ourselves from time to time. And while they’re not something I do regularly, they’re something I look forward to whenever I have a special reason to treat myself.

My Two Favourite Mid-Tier Massage Spots in Bangkok

For those of you who might be planning a trip to Bangkok, or for those who already live there and are looking for some good massage recommendations, I’ve put together a list of my favorite mid-tier massage spots. These are places that I feel offer the best value for money, combining great service, a relaxing atmosphere, and skilled therapists.

• Asia Herb Association
  Location: Sukhumvit (multiple locations)
  Average Price: THB1,200 (USD 35) for a 90-minute Thai herbal compress massage
  Why I Love It: Asia Herb is one of my go-to spots for a truly authentic Thai experience. Their herbal compress massage is a unique treatment that combines traditional Thai massage with heated herbal compresses that soothe and detoxify the body. The spa’s ambiance is deeply rooted in Thai tradition, and the therapists are exceptionally skilled. It’s a bit pricier than street-level massages, but the quality of the experience is worth every baht.
• Let’s Relax Spa
  Location: Various locations throughout Bangkok
  Average Price: THB1,200 (USD 35) for a 60-minute aromatherapy massage
  Why I Love It: Let’s Relax is a well-known chain in Bangkok, and for good reason. They offer a consistently high-quality experience, with clean facilities, professional staff, and a wide range of treatments to choose from. I’m particularly fond of their aromatherapy massage, which uses fragrant essential oils to enhance relaxation. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable and enjoyable spa experience.
• Infinity Spa
  Location: Sukhumvit soi 20
  Average Price: THB1,200 (USD 35) for a 60-minute oil massage
  Why I Love It: Infinity Spa strikes the perfect balance between luxury and affordability. The spa is sleek and modern, with a calm and relaxing atmosphere. The therapists are well-trained, and the service is consistently excellent. I particularly love their Signature Infinity Oil Massage, which uses a blend of essential oils that leave you feeling both relaxed and refreshed.

In Conclusion

Massage has been a vital part of my self-care routine for years, and it’s something I’ve continued to prioritize as I embrace this new chapter of life. Whether I’m indulging in a Thai massage that I lovingly refer to as “lazy yoga” or treating myself to a luxurious oil massage, the benefits are undeniable. These massages not only help me stay physically active and flexible but also provide much-needed relaxation and mental clarity.

If you ever find yourself in Bangkok, I highly recommend taking the time to explore the city’s incredible spa offerings. Whether you’re looking for an affordable street-level Thai massage or a more indulgent mid-tier oil massage, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs and budget. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite relaxation ritual.

For those of us who are navigating the journey of active aging, massage is a wonderful way to maintain our health, well-being, and sense of vitality. And in a city like Bangkok, where massage is both an art and a way of life, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. So go ahead—treat yourself. You’ve earned it.