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.
It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.
The hot stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that is rich in iron, so they retain heat. River rocks are normally used because they are so smooth - they have been smoothed over time by the river's current.
The stones are immersed in water and heated in an electric heating device until they are within a certain temperature range. The stones may be placed at specific points on the back, in the palms of the hand, or between the toes.
The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired.
The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system.
Some massage therapists place stones on points that are thought to be energy centers of the body to rebalance the body and mind.
- Promotes deep muscle and tissue relaxation
- Allieviates stress
- Releases toxins
- Relieves pain
- Improves ciculation
- Calms the psyche
- Muscular aches and pains
- Back Pain
- MS
- Arthritis
- Fibromylagia
- Stress, Anxiety
- Circulatory problems
- Insomnia
- Depression
|
A hot stone treatment will follow the same general guidelines as a Classic Swedish treatment, with the client prone, or face down, covered with a sheet and a blanket. The therapist will generally begin by lowering the blanket from the back leaving the sheet in place to begin, and will then place stones on a towel in an ordered arrangement along either side of the spine and sacrum, or low back. The blanket is then replaced, and the stones are left to radiate heat into the underlying tissue. The therapist will then treat the legs, first introducing an oil or lotion to introduce touch, and allow the stones to glide over the skin. Another important function of the lotion is to diffuse the heat of the stones to prevent burning. It is vitally important for both the therapist to constantly monitor the temperature of the stones while they are in place, and also for the client to provide feedback as to their comfort level, and to speak up if the stones begin to get uncomfortably hot. As the client and therapist gain a familiarity, it will become less necessary, allowing the client to focus more on relaxation.
|
