Many of our clients have heard of a Swedish massage or a deep tissue massage, but when it comes to a more select type, some are hesitant to try. One of our favorite massages is a hot stone massage, but, what does that mean exactly?
A hot stone massage uses smooth, heated stones, generally river rocks or other very smooth-surfaced stones made of basalt. These stones are typically heated in sanitized water. Basalt stones are higher in iron content making them more able to retain heat during massage. A therapist will utilize these stones in a way to represent an extension of the therapist’s hands. These stones are placed on the body in specific places to warm up areas that are tight, helping the therapist work deeper into the client’s muscles. So, why hot stones? Hot stones allow the therapist to access deeper into the muscle layers, and expands blood vessel, encouraging blood flow throughout the body. The sedative effect of these stones can also relieve chronic pain, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation.
So, what benefits would one receive from hot stone therapy?
Mental Benefits
Hot stones have a way of melting away our mental stresses and strains. The ease the massage gives you will help in combating anxiety disorders, depression, and general stress-related ailments. *Please note that if you have certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, or are pregnant, you are advised to avoid this type of therapy. We have other forms of therapy to recommend for those in either situation.
Physical Benefits
Although all forms of massage therapy relieve pain using different methods, hot stone provides a greater, deeper relief due to the intense nature of the massage. Overly tense muscles relax from the heat, and tension is more easily smoothed out. If you have circulation issues, the heat from the stones will increase circulation, delivering more oxygen to the muscles, easing aches and pains.
Emotional Benefits
Stress can manifest in a multitude of ways, including fatigue. It’s easy to get caught in the vortex of no sleep>low function>racing mind>no sleep. Hot stone brings you to a deeper level of relaxation.
Give us a call to set up your hot stone massage session. We will share with you what to expect during your massage, and what type of essential oils we will use to incorporate a holistic therapy to your experience as well.
