Hot Stone Massage

In hot stone massage therapy, water heated stones are placed on key points of the body, which help the body to relax and it also opens up the meridians of the body. Meridians are the energy pathways of the body and there are twelve major meridians. When there is an imbalance in the flow of energy through the body, it manifests itself in the form of aches, pains and lethargy. Hot stone massage can help in relieving tension and to loosen sore muscles. The use of heated stones for massage dates back to ancient times, but recently they have become quite popular and are very much in demand in most spas.

The stones used in hot stone massage are made of basalt which is a type of rock that is very effective in retaining heat. Stones that are found in the river are used as these rocks have been smoothened by the river current and are free of any irregularities and ridges. The stones are then immersed in hot water until they reach a certain temperature. These stones are then placed on certain points on the back, thighs, palms of the hands and between the toes. The heat and warmth from the stones, relaxes the body which in turn loosens sore muscles and provides relief from pain. The therapist then uses the heated stones to massage the muscles and might also use different massage oils for deep tissue manipulation.

Benefits of Hot Stone Massage

This massage therapy not only cures physical aches and pains but it is also a great way of achieving mental wellness. It is deeply therapeutic and it helps a person to relax at the most deepest level.

• Hot stone massage is helpful for lower back pain and aches.
• The heat from the stones is also known to help alleviate pain for people suffering from arthritis.
• It creates a calming effect on the nervous system and improves blood circulation.
• It is also very helpful for people suffering from insomnia.
• This massage can calm a restless mind and the mind can go into a deep meditative state. This is very beneficial for people suffering from stress, anxiety and depression.
• It can also help to get rid of toxins from the body.

Hot Stone Massage Techniques

First clean the stones with a mild disinfectant and heat the stones by placing them in a pot full of water. Put them in the hot pot for at least half an hour and make sure that the temperature of the stones do not exceed more than 125 ºF. Make the person you are going to massage lie face down on the massage table. Place the heated stones on the middle of hamstrings, at the back of knee, on the center of the calf and on the upper leg of the both the legs. After the stones have cooled down and the muscles of the legs have loosened up, apply any good oil and use the largest stone to glide it lightly upon the surface of the skin. Use medium to deep pressure to stroke the muscles on the legs in an upward motion. Now place fairly large heated stones on the lower back, on the length of the spinal cord and on and around the shoulders. Remove the stones, apply oil and follow the same gliding stroke to massage the muscles of the back and shoulders. The heat from the stones, combined with the massage increases the blood circulation and also creates a sense of well-being.

Hot stone massage therapy has a very calming effect on the mind and is one of the most wonderful treats for the body. Applying hot oil on the body allows the stone to glide very smoothly over the skin and relaxes the muscles. It is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate your body and also get rid of any aches and pains.