Full-body massage: how to choose the right type for you

A full-body massage works your back, shoulders, neck, arms, legs and sometimes your head, to release muscle tension and help you unwind. There are several styles, including aromatherapy oil, Thai, hot stone and traditional acupressure, and each suits a different need. If it's your first time, a 60–90 minute oil massage at medium pressure is usually the most comfortable place to start.

At a glance

• Time: usually 60, 90 or 120 minutes.
• Results usually last: you'll feel looser and calmer straight away, and the relaxed feeling typically lasts the rest of the day.
• Suits: desk workers, travellers, people who exercise, or anyone who simply needs a rest.
• Think twice if: you have a fever, cold or flu; a wound or skin condition; recent surgery; a history of blood clots; heart problems, high or low blood pressure or osteoporosis; you are pregnant — check with your doctor first.

Common types of massage

• Aromatherapy oil massage: long, flowing strokes with light to medium pressure and scented oil. Best for relaxing.
• Swedish massage: similar to an oil massage, with more kneading of the muscles.
• Deep tissue: firm pressure on tight areas; you may feel sore the next day.
• Thai massage: done in loose clothes without oil, with lots of assisted stretching.
• Hot stone: warm stones placed on and glided over the body. Lovely for tight muscles or a cool evening in Da Lat or Hanoi.
• Vietnamese acupressure (bấm huyệt): firm pressure on points and muscle groups.
• Shiatsu: Japanese-style pressure with fingers and palms.

Some spas also offer cupping (giác hơi) or coin scraping (cạo gió). Both can leave red or purple marks for several days, so think about timing if you have photos or a backless outfit planned.

What happens at the salon

1. Check-in: you fill in a short form or talk through your health, sore spots and preferred pressure.
2. Change: for an oil massage you usually undress, wear disposable underwear and stay covered with a towel throughout; for Thai massage you change into loose clothes the spa provides.
3. Prep: some places start with a foot soak, quick shower or steam.
4. Massage: usually back, shoulders, arms and legs, then you turn over.
5. Finish: tea or warm water while you come round.

You can speak up at any point if you want different pressure, feel cold, or would rather an area is left alone.

Before your appointment

• Avoid a heavy meal for about an hour beforehand, and skip alcohol.
• Arrive about 10 minutes early to change and settle in.
• Mention any health conditions, injuries or painful areas.
• If you'd prefer a male or female therapist, add a note when you book.

Aftercare

• Drink some water and lie still for a minute before sitting up.
• After firm pressure, mild soreness for a day or two is common.
• Shower off the oil if your skin is prone to breakouts, and avoid strong sun while your skin is still oily.
• If you notice sharp pain, numbness or unusual bruising, see a doctor.

Visitor tip: a massage on your first evening is a good way to recover from a long flight, but if you've been drinking or you're sunburnt, rebook for another day.

Questions to ask the salon

• Which massage suits me best, relaxation or easing tight muscles?
• What oil do you use, and do you have an unscented option?
• Can I choose a male or female therapist?
• Does the price include a private room, shower or steam?

FAQ

Should I book a 60 or 90 minute massage?

Sixty minutes covers a basic full-body relaxation massage. Ninety minutes gives the therapist time to work on tight areas like your neck, shoulders and back without rushing.

Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?

Mild soreness for a day or two after firm pressure is fairly common. Sharp pain, swelling or soreness that lasts longer is worth getting checked.

How much is a full-body massage in Da Nang?

Prices depend on the spa, the style of massage and the length. See current prices at salons on Chepom Bookings: Da Nang · Hoi An · Ho Chi Minh City

What's the difference between Thai and oil massage?

Thai massage uses no oil, you stay in loose clothes, and it involves a lot of stretching. An oil massage uses long, smooth strokes on bare skin.

Do I have to undress for a massage?

For an oil massage you usually wear disposable underwear and stay draped with a towel, with only the area being worked on uncovered. If anything feels uncomfortable, just tell the spa.

Can I ask for lighter pressure if I don't speak Vietnamese?

Yes. Simple words work well: nhẹ (gentle), mạnh (strong), đau (it hurts). A hand gesture and a smile do the rest.

Book it

Compare massage styles, read reviews and book a free slot on Chepom Bookings: Da Nang · Ho Chi Minh City · Da Lat