Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone Massage is a deeply relaxing type of massage that involves the use of smooth, heated stones that the massage therapist places on your body.
The therapist uses the stones in the palms of her hands to massage the body and also places stones at different places on the body allowing the heat to soothe the nervous system and deeply relax the client.
The penetrating heat and weight of the stones are said to warm and relax tense muscles so the therapist can work deeper, more quickly.
How Does It Differ From Other Types of Massage?
The use of the hot stones makes this style unique.
Typically made of basalt, the iron-rich stones retain heat.
Basalt stones are typically used because they are smooth and really retain the heat.
To prepare for the treatment, the therapist heats the stones in water, using an electric heater, until they are within a precise temperature range (typically between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit).
Stones are then placed on specific points on the back, legs, stomach hands and feet. Between the fingers and the toes and also sometimes on the face if this is the clients requirements.
The localised heat warms and relax the muscles, allowing the massage therapist to apply deeper pressure.
While many therapists use anatomy to guide the placement of the stones, some massage therapists will also place stones on energy centers thought to energetically balance the mind and body.
The use of hot stones for healing dates back to when Native Americans warmed stones by fire to ease muscle aches and pains.
Modern hot stone therapy is generally credited to Arizona massage therapist Mary Nelson, who developed La Stone Therapy, a hot stone technique integrated with therapeutic massage.
Hot stone massage has continued to evolve, with many massage therapists and spas offering their own versions of the massage I personally offer the added benefit of using crystals for the clients benefit.
The Benefits of Hot Stone Massage
Most people would find the hot stones to be very soothing, comforting and deeply relaxing.
Hot stone massage is suited to people who tend to feel chilly. It's also suited for people who have muscle tension but prefer a lighter massage.
The heat relaxes the muscles, allowing the therapist to work the muscles using lighter pressure, plus you have the added benefit of the soothing heat.
Although there's a lack of research on the benefits of hot stone massage, the therapy is often used for the same conditions as a classic massage:
- Relaxation
- Soothes anxiety
- Reduces back and muscular pain
- Helps with depression
- Aids insomnia
- Osteoarthritis
- Is having a Hot Stone Massage Painful?
They are smooth and typically several inches long.
The stones are warmed in an electrical heater so the temperature can be controlled.
The Hot Basalt stones are said to warm the body, ease the mind and soothe the nervous system
If, however, you feel the stones are too hot for you, be sure to tell the massage therapist immediately.
What to Expect During a Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage may begin with classic massage techniques to prepare the body's muscle tissue.
The therapist may place rows of warm stones on the table and cover them with a towel. You would lie down on the table so that the stones are aligned with the energy centres of the body running alongside the muscles of the spine.
Warm stones may also be placed on the abdomen, between your toes, in the palms of your hands, or even on your face.
The therapist applies massage oil to the body.
Holding the stones in the palms, the therapist uses gliding movements to move the stones along the muscles with added pressure and heat.
He or she will also use classic massage movements on the back, legs, neck, and shoulders while the stones are in place or after they have been removed.
The length of a typical hot stone massage is between 50 and 60 minutes.
Who Shouldn't Get a Hot Stone Massage
You should not have a Hot Stone Massage if you have
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- heart disease
- recent wounds (although these areas can be avoided) ,
- tumours
- metal implants
In general, hot stone massage should not be done on anyone who should not receive standard massage therapy.
Also please do check with your doctor if you have recently had chemotherapy, radiation, or heart /open surgery.
Pregnant women and children should avoid hot stone massage.
Whether you're trying massage for the first time or are already a fan and interested in trying something new, talk with your therapist (and healthcare provider) about whether hot stone massage is appropriate for you.
While many people find the warmth deeply relaxing and beneficial for the mind, body, and spirit, you also want to make sure that it's right type of bodywork for you—especially if you have a health condition or injury.
Some additional tips on making the most out of your massage:
Please don't eat a heavy meal before the massage.
Please do let your therapist know if the stones are too warm or the pressure is too intense.
If it's your first time having this treatment, please arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary consultation form.
If this is not your first time having this treatment with us please arrive 5 minutes before your appointment so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.
Fee for the Hot Stone Massage is :
Full Body :€ 100:00
Back only : €40:00 Euros
Face only : €40 Euros (includes Deep cleansing treatment)
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