Thai massage incorporates stretching, compression, and acupressure techniques, focusing on energy lines and holistic healing, while regular massage techniques typically involve rubbing, kneading, and pressure on soft tissues.

The therapist uses their hands (thumbs, elbows, forearms) and sometimes, even their feet to reduce tension in the muscles. The massage does not use oils or lotions. The therapist will move the person's body into yoga-like positions (assisted yoga) in addition to pulling and rocking the body in various other ways.

Thai massage – also known as Thai Yoga Massage, or informally as 'the lazy person's yoga' – combines assisted yoga with acupressure techniques. The therapist will incorporate yogic stretching movements as they knead and press muscles along the body's energy lines with the hands and feet.

Thai massages differ from the whole body and spa massages, where patients wear clothes. You will remain dressed entirely for a Thai massage, so ensure you wear breathable clothing and extend without any problem. Again, talk to the specialist to double-check what is allowed clothing-wise.