Hot Stone Massage

Do you want deep relaxation and relief of tension without the need of deep pressure? If so, hot stone massage is for you. Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. The stones most often used are volcanic rock stones called basalt. The stones are heated in a warm bath of water. The basalt stones absorb and retain the heat from the water.

Before using the stones, the massage therapist typically will apply oil to the body and use massage to help warm the skin and muscles for the treatment. The oil helps the stones glide over the skin. The therapist then either uses the stones to massage the body using traditional Swedish Massage; or the stones may be placed at specific points on the body. These can be points of increased tension or specific energetic points.

The heat is both deeply relaxing and helps tight muscles release. The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired. The warmth of the hot stones can all improve circulation and calm the nervous system. If placed on energy centers, the stones are believed to help rebalance the body and mind.

Hot stone massage has many beneficial effects, including but not limited to:

• Alleviation of stress
• Release of toxins
• Reduction of pain
• Improved circulation
• Calming of the psyche
• Deep muscle relaxation
  

Hot stone massage is used to treat a variety of conditions which may include:

• Muscular aches and pains
• Back Pain
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Stress, Anxiety
• Circulatory problems
• Insomnia
• Depression

It is important to remember that hot stone massage is a specialty. A massage therapist should be trained to perform hot stone massage. The therapist needs to know how to correctly heat and use the stones to prevent burning; what conditions that would preclude a person from receiving hot stone massage; and which techniques to use to properly address the needs of the client. Do not hesitate to ask the massage therapist where he/she has been trained and how long they have been doing hot stone massage. During the session, provide the therapist with feedback regarding the heat and pressure of the stones. Hot stone massage should be very relaxing and should never feel uncomfortable.

If you are interested in trying a new a technique and experiencing a whole new level of relaxation, ask about hot stone massage!