Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. The heat is both deeply relaxing and helps tight muscles release.
At the start of a hot stone therapy, smooth water-heated basalt stones are carefully applied to key points on the body. This direct heat relaxes the muscles, which means that the massage itself is more effective and intense than it would be otherwise. The size of the stones varies, according to which part of the body they're being used on. The stones are coated in fragrant oil to increase your sense of relaxation and calm. When oil is smoothed gently onto the body, each stone in turn can be worked along by the therapist's hands. Most therapists will alternate the application of the warm stones with frozen or cooling marble ones, aimed at stimulating the nervous system.
Benefits of Hot Stone Massage
- Promotes deep muscle and tissue relaxation
- Alleviates stress
- Releases toxins
- Relieves pain
- Improves circulation
- Calms the psyche
Health Conditions Treated with Hot Stone Massage
- Muscular aches and pains
- Back Pain
- MS
- Arthritis
- Fibromylagia
- Stress, Anxiety
- Circulatory problems
- Insomnia
- Depression
The benefits of cold/cool stone massage
- Refreshes and stimulates the mind
- Helps to relieve tissue congestion (such as the sinuses)
- Soothes irritation
- Cools down the body on a warm day or during hot flushes.
