Back to Blog

Posted on: August 8, 2012

Hot stone massage is a form of massage therapy, which incorporates the use of smooth, heated, flat stones. The stones are placed strategically on key points of the body. River rocks are typically used for massage because they are smooth due to the river’s current smoothing the rocks out over time. Hot stones are normally made of basalt, which contain iron, therefore they retain heat. The stones are submerged in water and heated using an electric oven like device, which controls the temperature.

Massage therapy usually takes place in a spa. Reason being, all the proper equipment is located at the spa. The proper equipment and a properly trained massage therapist, helps put the client in a state of relaxation. When the client is relaxed, the stones are placed at certain points on the back, in the palms of the hand, or the spaces in between the toes. The warmth of the stones is meant to relax the person receiving the massage. The heat relaxes the muscles, which helps the therapist work the muscles without using too much pressure. Other reasons people seek hot stone massage are those with poor circulation, insomnia, depression, or stress.

One of the body works techniques used for this type of stone massage involves the stone being placed in warm oil. The therapist then uses it for broad strokes on the back. While the therapist works the back, the stones are placed in the areas where the therapist has already massaged. This causes the area to stay warm, with a bit of pressure to cause relaxation in the client. Then another area of the client can be massaged, which can include kneading and rubbing. The client can have decreased symptoms in pain, muscle spasms, stress and tension. Also, an increased flexibility in joints, aiding in easier mobility and movement, which leads to the client feeling therapeutic and well rested.

---

Read more posts like this