Rediscovering Movement: An Interview on Thai Massage

Background & Qualifications

How did you get into massage therapy, and what drew you to it initially?

I actually started out as a competitive swimmer, and a sports masseuse worked on my shoulders before a national final. I was fascinated by how much of a difference targeted pressure could make — not just physically but in how calm I felt afterward. I retrained within two years.

What's your training and certification background — where did you study, and how long did it take?

I completed a two-year diploma in therapeutic massage at the Budapest School of Physiotherapy, followed by a specialised six-month Thai massage certification in Chiang Mai under a traditional Wat Po-trained instructor.

How many years have you been practicing, and where have you worked along the way?

Twelve years now. I started in a hotel spa in Siófok, spent three years in a clinical rehab setting working alongside physiotherapists, and opened my own studio five years ago.

Do you hold any specialised certifications?

Yes — a Level 3 Traditional Thai Massage certificate from the Old Medicine Hospital in Chiang Mai, plus a sports massage certification from the Hungarian Massage Therapy Association.

About Thai Massage

Can you explain Thai massage in your own words — what actually happens during a session?

Thai massage is done fully clothed on a floor mat rather than a table. I use my hands, forearms, knees and feet to apply rhythmic pressure along energy lines, combined with assisted stretching that moves your body through yoga-like positions. It's often described as 'passive yoga' — you don't do any of the work, I move you through it.

What makes this technique different?

It combines deep compression with stretching in a way most Western techniques don't. There's no oil, you stay clothed, and the pace is much more rhythmic and continuous rather than working one muscle group at a time.

What kind of pressure, pace, or tools does it typically involve?

Pressure is generally firm and sustained — I use body weight rather than just hand strength, so it can feel deep without being sharp. The pace is slow and deliberate, with each stretch held for several breaths.

What conditions or complaints is it particularly good for?

Chronic tension, restricted mobility, lower back stiffness, and stress. Clients with desk jobs who sit for long hours often see a big improvement in hip and shoulder mobility after a few sessions.

Is there anything it's not suitable for, or types of clients who should avoid it?

I don't recommend it for anyone with osteoporosis, recent fractures or surgeries, or in the first trimester of pregnancy. If you have a herniated disc, I'll adapt the stretches significantly or suggest a gentler technique instead.

How long does a typical session run, and is there a recommended frequency?

Sessions run 60 or 90 minutes. For general wellbeing, once a month is plenty; if you're working through a specific mobility issue, I'd suggest weekly sessions for the first month.

What should someone expect physically or emotionally after their first session?

Some mild muscle soreness the next day is normal, similar to after a good stretch class. Emotionally, most people say they feel unusually calm and a bit sleepy — it's a good idea to keep the rest of the day light.

Why This Specialty

Out of all the massage styles out there, why did you choose to specialize in this one?

I loved that it treats the whole body as connected rather than working on isolated sore spots. It also let me combine my interest in movement and flexibility from my swimming background with hands-on therapy.

Was there a moment or experience that pulled you toward this particular technique?

During my training trip to Chiang Mai, I received a session from a therapist who'd been practising for over 40 years. The precision and calm confidence in her movements — she barely spoke the whole time — showed me how much depth there was to learn.

What do you find most rewarding about practicing this type of massage specifically?

Watching someone's range of motion visibly improve within a single session. With frozen shoulders especially, it's incredibly satisfying to see someone lift their arm further than they could an hour earlier.

Is there a cultural or historical background to this technique that you find meaningful?

Thai massage traces back over 2,500 years to Ayurvedic and Buddhist traditions, and is traditionally taught in temples. I try to honour that lineage — it's as much a meditative practice for me as a physical one.

Client Experience & Practical Info

What's a common misconception clients have about this massage before their first session?

That it will hurt. People hear 'deep pressure' and expect pain, but a good session should feel intense in a satisfying way, never sharp. I always check in throughout.

How do you tailor a session to a new client — what do you ask them beforehand?

I ask about any injuries, surgeries, areas of tension, and their general flexibility. First-timers get a gentler introduction so they know what to expect before we go deeper.

What's one thing you wish every client knew before booking?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing — leggings and a t-shirt work best. And eat lightly beforehand; a full stomach doesn't mix well with the stretching.

Any advice for someone trying this style for the first time — how should they prepare, and what should they do afterward?

Come well hydrated, avoid a heavy meal for two hours prior, and afterward, drink plenty of water and give yourself permission to move slowly for the rest of the day.

Closing Thoughts

What's the most memorable feedback you've had from a client?

A client who'd had chronic shoulder pain for three years told me it was the first time in that entire period she'd slept through the night without waking in pain. That one stuck with me.

If someone's nervous about trying massage therapy for the first time, what would you tell them?

Say so! Tell your therapist you're nervous and what specifically worries you. A good therapist will slow down, explain what they're doing, and check in constantly. You're always in control of the pressure and pace.