Hot Stone Massage Techniques

A hot stone massage can be the perfect antidote after a tiring work week. This massage therapy is performed using special hot stone massage techniques, that not only soothes your body, but also loosens the stiff muscles and relaxes them. To know more, read on...

The history of hot stone massage dates back almost thousand years, when it was used in sweat ceremonies in some parts of America as part of rituals. Other schools of thought believe that hot stone massage techniques date back 5000 years to Indian herbal medicinal guide, Ayurveda. In ancient times, Yogis used to warm stones with the help of hot water or hot coals and place them on energy centers of the body. This process was useful in healing muscle discomforts, as prescribed in Ayurveda.

Today, the same hot stone massage techniques are used along with traditional massage therapy. has become a rage with an increasing number of endorsing it. The scope of hot stone massage is not limited to beauty, but it is also helpful in healing body ache and back pain. The massage releases tight muscles and cells and promotes blood circulation, that dissolves any kind of clots in the blood, which results in reducing the pain and swelling of the muscle.

Hot Stone Massage Rocks
The stones used in hot stone techniques, are found near river banks. The water current in the river makes them smooth and free of sharp ridges. Basalt rock is also used as massage stone, which is formed when volcanoes erupt. It is high on iron and magnesium and is a very good heat absorbent. Generally, flat stones are used as massage stones, so they stay on the back without rolling down, and cover a large surface of the skin. Before starting the massage, the stones are heated in the water to a certain temperature with an electric heater. Then these hot are arranged on the back along the spinal cord, and on the palms, feet, and arms. The stones can be placed on other body parts as well, as per the client's demand. However, these stones cannot be put on face and the scalp, as the skin on these areas is very sensitive.

Hot Stone Massage Therapy
Hot stone has lot of benefits apart from reducing back pain and body ache. This massage is good for people who have cold feet or tend to feel chilly, as it increases the body temperature and comforts the body. It is also ideal for any kind of muscle tension or muscle swelling, where a therapist can work on muscles without applying much pressure to remove sprains. Hot stone can help people with poor blood circulation, arthritis or osteoarthritis pain, insomnia, etc. It is also a good stress buster and can help relax the mind as well by reducing anxiety and depression.

Hot stone are a part of traditional massage therapy. In a hot stone massage, the therapist uses stones for body massage instead of their hands. Sometimes the therapist uses stones only on the back and use their hands to other areas of the body. First, the therapist applies oil to the body so that the stones can glide easily while massaging. Then the hot stones are kept on the body for 10-20 minutes followed by the massage with stones. A therapist may choose to follow or combine various types of massages, such as Thai massage, Swedish massage, or Chinese massage, etc., and can use various or aroma oils to relax the mind.

However, there are some necessary precautions to be taken before entering a spa. People with unhealed wounds, infected skin, and bruises should avoid hot stone massage. Pregnant women and people with recent fractures or surgeries should consult the doctor before getting pampered with any hot stone massage techniques. On the whole, a hot stone massage can leave you feeling relaxed and fresh, and can be a perfect stress buster before you get back to the grueling work week.