Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage therapy is becoming widely known for its deeply relaxing benefits. This technique can be performed on its own, but is often incorporated into other massage treatments in order to add extra feelings of harmony and relaxation. Hot Stone Massage uses smooth heated stones that are placed on certain points on the body. The stones are used to melt away knots, increase overall detoxification and alleviate tension and stress.

Hot Stone Massages use heat from smooth basalt rocks. This exotic treatment involves placing heated lava stones, which have been lifted from water and dipped in warm essential oils, onto the skin and pressure points. Basalt rocks are heated and used to sooth sore and aching muscles. They can also increase the relaxation response and can increase healing through enhanced blood flow and circulation. Cool marble stones are also sometimes used to cool the muscles and promote healing.

Hot Stone Massage can consist of two different techniques. The stones are either placed on certain points of the body to warm and sooth muscles or they are rubbed over specific acupressure points in long flowing strokes in order to relieve pain, promote harmony and restore balance and peace to the body. Many therapists perform a combination of the two. Some also alternate iced and warm stones in order to create a better balance between ice and fire.

Hot Stone Massages are not only known for helping with aches and pains, they are also associated with the reduction in back pain, stress, tension, depression, insomnia, anxiety and a number of other ailments. This form of massage therapy is an added benefit to any massage and can enhance the overall relaxation of body, mind and spirit.