The hot stones that are commonly used are Basalt stones, which over time have become extremely polished and smooth. Stones may also be coated in oil and used by the therapist delivering various massaging strokes.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage uses a type of rock that is very rich in iron. Rocks that are rich in iron can retain the heat longer than other rocks. The most commonly used stones come from rivers since they are already smooth by the river’s current. When the stone is heated, the therapist will check the temperature of the stone before putting it on your body. You can indicate whether the stone temperature is relaxing to you or too hot. The stone is habitually placed in some areas on the back, between the toes, and on the palm. There are times when the therapist puts the stones in certain areas specified by the client or depending on personal conditions.
During the hot stone massage, the stone is heated until it can satisfy the warmth of the human body. Eventually, it will facilitate the relaxation of muscles and the therapist will apply some pressure. This is only done if necessary or if explicitly requested by the client.
Hot stone massage is highly recommended to those people who always suffer from cold feet or feel nippy most of the time. By placing the hot stone to the parts that have problems, the heat coming from the stone will in due course relax muscles even if the therapist does not exert much pressure while doing the therapy.
Hot stone massage is a popular service offered at a spa where the provider uses smooth, heated stones, as an extension of their own hands; or by placing the stones on the body while they massage other parts of the body.
Characteristics of Hot Stone Massage
Relaxation *****
Therapeutic *
Intensity: Minimum
Lubrication: Yes
Undressing: Yes
Tip: Likely
How to interpret the rating scale
Hot stone massage is a natural therapy procedure during which a therapist places basalt heated stones on the body of the client.
It’s has a relaxing, soothing effect on the body and helps to loosen tense muscles for deeper penetration and quicker relief.
How Is Hot Stone Massage Administered
Generally the masseuse starts out by instructing the client to lie face down and then begins coating their body with oil so that the basalt stones easily slide down the muscles. The stones are then used to massage the clients back or they are left in a fixed position to relax the muscles. When the muscles are relaxed, the masseuse may remove the stones and begin massaging the clients back with his/her hands. If the client wishes, the stones can be placed back on the body and left to sit for a short time. The masseuse may also place smaller heated stones in the client’s palms or between the toes.
Hot Stone Massage as a Treatment
Anyone who experiences muscle tension, frequent chills, or cold feet, can benefit from hot stone massage. The heated stones help the body to relax while providing a warming sensation. With stone massage a masseuse cam work muscles easily without applying too much pressure. Some health conditions that hot stone massage can treat are:
- Muscle Tension:
Hot stone massage can help decrease muscle tension resulting from stress, anxiety, or muscle strain. The heated stones help tight muscles loosen up, so that the masseuse can easily manipulate soft tissues.
- Low Back Pain and Aches
There are a lot of massage styles that can be used to relieve stiff joints, pain, and tense muscles. Hot stone massage is excellent for treating lower back pain and aches because it allows for deeper penetration of tissues, allowing the client to feel physically better.
Extreme discomfort and pain during the therapy can be harmful so it’s important to let the masseuse know if the pressure is too much.
- Poor Circulation
Hot stone massage penetrates deep tissues, allowing blood vessels to open up and improve blood circulation throughout the body. Poor blood circulation can result in fatigue which can lead to tense muscles and excess lactic acid in the muscles. With proper circulation oxygen can flow more easily to the muscles, reducing pain and aches.
- Anxiety and Stress
Stone massages can provide mental benefits, just like most other forms of massage therapy. It helps the body to relax which can ease the mind, helping to reduce stress and tension. Although hot stone massage cannot substitute psychiatric care, it can help to relive mental problems like anxiety and depression.
While hot stone message is a great way to relax, individuals with diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, or those who are on blood thinning medication, should refrain from therapy. Pregnant women should also wait until after delivery before getting a hot stone massage.