Turkish massage is an excellent approach to unwind and revitalize the body and soul. Traditional Turkish massage therapy involves three distinct stages. The first stage is the “hot room,” typically adorned with a small dome and glass clerestory windows.
Then comes the massage, which takes place on a heated marble table. Afterward, the patient is moved to a cooler room, where they will be cleaned with soap and enjoy a refreshing beverage. There are also private cubicles for napping after the massage.
Traditional Turkish massage
Traditional Turkish massage is one of the oldest massage styles in the world and has been practiced for over a thousand years. The treatment takes place in a traditional Turkish hammam, a heated room where people can relax and cleanse their bodies. The hammam experience is often combined with a relaxing oil massage to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.
There are several places to get a traditional Turkish massage in Istanbul. One of the most historical is the Cemberlitas Hamam, which dates back to the Ottoman period and is designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. This hammam still maintains many original touches and has a large following.
The hammam is heated traditionally, using a massive furnace that produces enough steam to warm the entire building. Guests can get a traditional body massage and exfoliation here, and there are even some modern treatments you can try.
Benefits of a Turkish massage
Getting a Turkish massage has many benefits, including promoting skin health. The masseuse uses their hands, fingers, palms, and forearms to massage the body and connective tissues around organs. The massage can be performed on all body parts, including the head and shoulders. The technique has been popular in Turkey for centuries and has been handed down through the generations.
The treatment begins with a warm, foam-filled pouch on the body. This massage stimulates the body’s lymphatic system. The masseuse then uses high-pressure techniques to stimulate blood circulation. This allows the body to sweat, which is good for detoxification.
Cost of a Turkish massage
The cost of a Turkish massage can vary depending on where you go and the service you get. The average price is around 80 euros. A typical session will last around an hour. Some places offer more extensive treatments, and you can also pay extra for a foot reflexology session. Whether you go for a traditional massage or opt for more sophisticated techniques, the cost of a Turkish massage will depend on the service you get.
If you’re in Istanbul on a budget, try a local hammam, which locals attend. Prices are cheaper here, and the atmosphere will be less touristy. Prices listed in dollars and Euros are usually just estimates, as the original prices are in Turkish Liras.
Locations of Turkish hammams in Istanbul
Istanbul has a number of Turkish hammams. The Suleymaniye Hamam was built in 1557 and is a part of the Suleymaniye Mosque complex. The hammam is open to the public and offers hot, lukewarm and cold sections.
One of the most beautiful Turkish hammams in the city is the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam. Designed by Mimar Sinan, this beautiful hammam was initially built to serve the Ottoman navy. Its dome is the largest in Istanbul and is a stunning sight. The hammam is also open to the public and offers tours and warm sherbet.
Hamams have become a renaissance in the past few years. While neighborhood baths are notoriously dirty, historic hammams have been reopened as luxury spas.
Places to find a hammam SPA
While some Turkish massage hammam spas allow you to bathe naked, others require you to wear a peshtemal, a thick but thin waist, and loin cloth. Hammam temperatures are highly variable. However long you wish to spend in the hammam is entirely up to you..
A Turkish massage hammam typically has a dressing area, a shower, and a cooling room. During the bath, you can get soaked in heated marbles. While you’re in the sauna, you can also relax in the water with the help of a towel.
If you’re in Istanbul, check out the famous Catma Mescit Hammam, built by Sultan Mimar Sinan in 1533. Located in Istanbul’s Kasimpasa district, this hammam is one of the city’s oldest and most popular Turkish massage hammams. It offers several services, including a traditional scrub-foam ritual, a full-body organic mask, and a full-body massage.
Related Article: Eastern Massage