What is Thai massage? How it feels, who it suits and how to book it at home
Updated October 24, 2026 · 2 min read
Thai massage uses no oil: you stay in your clothes and are guided through stretches, a bit like assisted yoga. Here is what it feels like, who it suits and how to book a session at home.
What Thai massage is
Thai massage is a traditional practice from Thailand that combines pressure along lines of the body with passive stretches. The therapist works with palms, thumbs, elbows and sometimes knees, using body weight rather than muscle strength.
Unlike an oil massage, there is no oil. You wear loose, soft clothes such as a T-shirt and long trousers and lie on a mat or a firm bed. The therapist moves from the feet up through the legs, back, shoulders, arms and neck, alternating pressure and stretching.
How a Thai massage feels
Pressure is usually firmer than in an oil massage, with a slow, steady rhythm. The stretches open up the body in ways that are hard to do on your own, and many people say they feel lighter and move more easily afterwards.
The first time, some positions may feel unfamiliar or a little intense. Tell the therapist whenever you want lighter pressure or a gentler stretch. You may feel slightly sore the next day in muscles you rarely use; drink water and rest.
Who it suits and when to choose something else
Thai massage suits people who sit a lot, often feel stiff, like firm pressure or prefer no oil on their skin. Choose a gentler treatment or check with a doctor first if you:
- Are pregnant: the Prenatal massage, done lying on your side with light pressure, is the better choice.
- Have a recent injury or surgery, or a spine or joint condition.
- Have osteoporosis or take blood thinners.
- Have a fever, feel unusually unwell or have unstable blood pressure.
Booking Thai massage at home on MiMi
Thai massage comes in 60 minutes (₫350,000), 90 minutes (₫480,000) and 120 minutes (₫620,000). 90 minutes is usually enough for an unhurried full-body session. Clear some floor space with a mat or use a firm bed, and change into comfortable clothes beforehand.
MiMi has therapists across Vietnam, with the most in Hanoi. The price is shown in the app before you confirm, you pay the therapist directly and there's no tip. When booking, note the pressure you prefer and any areas to avoid.