What to Do Before and After a Massage: First Timer’s Guide

Thailand is famous for its unique massage techniques that combine acupressure, stretching, and traditional healing practices. If you're in Bangkok and looking to get a massage experience now, a traditional Thai massage in Bangkok might be exactly what you need. But before starting to choose or book your session, knowing how to prepare for a massage can make your experience much more enjoyable and beneficial.

How to Prepare for a Thai Massage

• Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water in the hours leading up to your massage to help loosen muscles and prepare your body to flush out toxins

• Eat light - Have a small meal or snack at least 1-2 hours before your appointment to avoid feeling uncomfortable during your treatment

• Arrive early - Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time to complete any paperwork and unwind before your session

• Be honest about health conditions - Inform your therapist about any injuries, medical conditions, or areas of concern so they can adjust the treatment accordingly

• Limit alcohol and caffeine - Avoid these substances before your massage as they can interfere with your body's ability to relax fully

• Take a warm shower - A shower before your massage helps you feel fresh and can start the muscle relaxation process

• Set your intention - Think about what you hope to achieve with your massage (stress relief, pain reduction, etc.) to help focus the session

What to Wear for Thai Massage

• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes when arriving at the spa

• No need for special preparation - the spa will provide appropriate clothing or covering

• Remove jewelry and accessories - leave watches, necklaces, bracelets, and dangly earrings at home if possible

• For traditional Thai massage, you may remain clothed in the provided loose garments

• For oil-based massages, you'll typically undress to your comfort level and be draped with sheets for privacy

• Wear your hair tied back if it's long to keep it out of the way during the treatment

What to Expect During the Massage

1. Upon arrival, your experience will begin with a personalized consultation. This allows our team to recommend the most suitable treatment, understand specific areas of concern, and help you choose the right products that meet your needs.

2. You’ll then be invited to relax in our reception area with a refreshing Thai herbal drink—served cold to help cool your body and calm your senses before the treatment.

3. Before the massage begins, we’ll guide you through a gentle foot cleansing ritual. This step not only promotes hygiene but also helps stimulate vital energy points in preparation for your session.

4. After the foot ritual, you’ll be escorted to your designated treatment room, carefully selected to match the type of massage you’ve chosen.

5. For Thai massage, you’ll receive comfortable traditional Thai-style clothing and be led to a room specially prepared for this treatment.

6. For oil massages, disposable underwear will be provided. Our rooms are designed to ensure complete privacy, allowing you to relax and change comfortably.

7. Once you’re dressed and ready, simply give a signal—such as lightly ringing the bell or saying you’re ready—and your therapist will enter to begin your treatment.

8. The therapist will use a combination of techniques tailored to your selected massage—ranging from acupressure and stretching in Thai massage to soothing strokes in oil therapy.

9. You may be repositioned throughout the session to access different muscle groups and energy lines.

10. Pressure can vary from light to deep, so please communicate with your therapist to ensure a comfortable and effective experience.

11. Once the session is complete, your therapist will step out of the room to allow you time to change back into your clothes in privacy.

12. Afterward, you’ll be invited to enjoy a warm herbal drink and a light refreshment designed to re-energize your body—whether you’re heading out to continue your day or returning to your hotel for a restful night.

    
    

What to Do After the Massage

• Get up slowly from the massage table or mat to avoid dizziness

• Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body

• Avoid strenuous physical activity for the rest of the day to allow your body to fully benefit from the treatment

• Skip the shower for an hour if you had an oil massage to allow the oils to fully absorb into your skin

• Enjoy any post-massage refreshments offered by the spa

• Notice how your body feels and make mental notes for your next session

  
  

Book a Massage Session

Experience the authentic Thai massage traditions at Preme Spa, one of Bangkok's premier wellness destinations. With locations near BTS Thonglor and Preme Pavilion near ICONSIAM, we offer a range of treatments from traditional Thai massage to aromatherapy and special packages that combine multiple techniques, and our therapists are dedicated to helping you achieve balance between body and mind. 

Advance booking is recommended to ensure a smooth and relaxing experience. It allows proper preparation of the treatment room, assignment of a skilled therapist, and readiness of all required items for the selected program.

Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability, but preferred time slots are not guaranteed—especially during peak hours. Reservation is advised to avoid waiting or disappointment.

Book Now

Conclusion - How to Prepare For a Massage

Knowing how to prepare for a massage ensures you get the maximum benefit from your treatment. By following these simple guidelines before, during, and after your Thai massage, or any spa session, you'll enhance the therapeutic effects and leave feeling truly rejuvenated. Remember that communication with your therapist is key to a customized experience that addresses your specific needs. Whether you're a first-timer or a massage enthusiast, these preparation tips will help you make the most of your Thai massage experience in Bangkok!