Hot stone massage, also known as “stone therapy,” is a massage technique that originated in Native American and Hawaiian cultures. It involves the use of heated basalt stones of volcanic origin, which have therapeutic properties and promote a sense of well-being.
Hot stone massage is a wonderful way to unwind and relieve stress after a long and tiring day. It helps release tension, alleviate stiffness, and improve circulation. The massage involves placing water-heated stones on specific points of the body and may also include additional massage techniques. In this article, we will discuss how hot stone massage is performed and its benefits.
Other Names of Host Stone Massage:
- Hot stone therapy
- Thermal stone massage
- Geothermal therapy
- Lava stone massage
- Basalt stone massage
- Hawaiian stone massage
Basalt Stones: The Power of Volcanic Lava
Basalt stones are real volcanic stones that are composed of pure lava. These stones are smooth, contain a high iron content, and are able to store heat for up to 45 minutes. When heated and used in massage, the stones provide a feeling of well-being and have various therapeutic properties. To warm the stones, they are immersed in water that is heated to a temperature between 50 and 65 degrees Celsius.
The Hot Stone Massage Session
At the start of a hot stone massage session, the therapist will apply a relaxing and decontracting essential oil to the back. The back is massaged manually and with the use of the heated pebbles. Throughout the session, the hot stones will be used to massage, caress, press and knead specific areas of the body. The therapist will also massage the feet and legs with lukewarm massage oil.
The therapist will place hot stones on the spine, in the palms of the hands, and between the toes. The heat helps to stimulate and release energy points in the body. Once lying on the back, the same ritual can be performed on other parts of the body. Cold marble stones may also be used in some spas and thalassotherapy centers, to alternate with the hot stones for the benefits of thermotherapy.
The Benefits and Therapeutic Virtues of Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage offers a range of benefits, including:
- Deep relaxation
- Detoxification of the body
- Improved blood circulation
- Effective in treating arthritis
- Effective in treating fibromyalgia
- Helps with insomnia
- Helps with muscle pain
- Effective in treating stress-related illnesses
Hot Stone Massage Risks
A hot stone massage performed by a professional therapist is generally safe. However, in certain circumstances, it should be avoided. Below is a list of instances when a hot stone massage is not recommended and the person should consult his or her doctor before getting it.
- Pregnancy.
- Diabetes.
- Heart disease.
- Burns, cuts or open wounds on the skin.
- Infection or illness.
- Severe osteoporosis.
- Recent surgery.
- A history of blood clots or a bleeding disorder.
- Low platelet count.
- Neuropathy.
- Autoimmune dysfunctions.
Summary
Hot stone massage offers a unique and relaxing experience with a variety of therapeutic benefits. By using the healing power of basalt stones, this massage technique can help release tension, alleviate stiffness, and improve circulation. As with any medical treatment, it is essential to consult with a doctor before starting any new therapy.
To get the most out of your massage benefits, be open with your massage therapist. Being aware of any conditions the client might have, can affect how the hot stone massage is performed.
BME. Wajih Habrah
I'm a passionate biomedical engineer with a love for writing about medical and wellness equipment. I have been fascinated by the intersection of engineering and wellness, and pursued my education in biomedical engineering to learn how to design, develop and maintain medical devices that improve patient health and well-being.
