Introduction to hot stone massage therapy

Hot stone massage with the use of water-heated stones to warm and massage your body has become increasingly popular in recent years. This use of hot water to treat the body, called thermal hydrotherapy, deeply relaxes muscles and relieves stress.

Most massage therapists use basalt stones because they are non-porous, smooth, and retain heat longer than other types of stones. These beautiful stones come in various sizes. The massage therapist places larger placement stones on one location on the body for an extended time, while using smaller tool stones to perform specific massage movements.

Stroking is generally slow and gentle, in a way that many people find soothing, comforting, and reassuring. Some massage therapists use hot stones for energy work by placing them along the body’s meridians (energy lines) or at the chakras (energy points). Placing the stones on these key points can stimulate the movement of energy known as qi or chi and help release the effects of stress and facilitate healing.

Other potential benefits of hot stone massage include the release of toxins, pain relief, and improved circulation. The combined healing properties of massage and heat attract many clients who have a hot stone massage once again.

using the stones

To heat the stones, the masseur uses a professionally designed heater with a thermometer to check the temperature of the water. The water temperature is generally between 110 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Because each person has a different sensitivity to heat, it is important for the therapist to ensure that the temperature of the stones is suitable for you. Always let your therapist know if the stones feel too hot.

When using placement stones, the therapist will place a barrier, such as a flannel sheet or terry cloth towel, between them and your skin to prevent the risk of a burn.

To maintain and clean the stones, therapists use different techniques. Some wash the stones and change the water after each client. Others use a spa oxidizer that breaks down bacteria in the hot water, keeping the stones sanitized all day. Then, at the end of the day, the therapist empties the heating unit and washes and sanitizes all the equipment.

Cold Stone Massage and Contrast Therapy

In addition to hot stones, some massage therapists use cold stones. These marble stones are cut by hand for use in cold stone therapy, which is especially helpful for injuries and inflammation. Cold stones can also invigorate the body or have a cooling effect on hot days or for hot flashes.

Another option is the alternation of hot and cold stones, a technique called contrast therapy. Contrast therapy harnesses the benefits of both heat and cold. The contrasting temperatures expand and contract the blood vessels, stimulating blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

Precautions and contraindications

To ensure that hot stone massage is safe for you, always tell your massage therapist about all your medical conditions and anything else that affects your body. If you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or are under the care of a health care provider for a serious medical condition, consult your provider before receiving a hot stone massage.

Heat can make some skin conditions worse, including eczema, rashes, and psoriasis. Avoid heat if you are taking medications that cause skin hypersensitivity (such as antibiotics or Accutane for acne). Watch out for any areas that are numb. Avoid heat on varicose veins, open wounds, infected skin conditions, or inflammation.

In general, avoid cold stones if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, circulatory problems, reduced sensation, or nerve damage. Also, avoid cold stones in the abdomen if you have abdominal discomfort (discomfort, pain, bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea). However, hot stones moved in a clockwise circular motion can help relieve these symptoms.

Enjoy your massage!

Now that you know the benefits of hot stone massage and understand when it’s safe to get one, call your local masseuse and enjoy the relaxing and healing effects of the penetrating heat of a hot stone massage.

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