What is hot stone therapy?
Hot stone therapy is a form of massage therapy that follows the same principles of a regular Swedish massage but with the addition of heated stones, which are believed to better open the body's energy pathways. Hot stone massage is a form of “thermotherapy” in which hot stones are positioned on specific areas of the client's body and allow for greater deep tissue manipulation.
Not only does Hot Stone massage feel amazing during the colder winter months, there are also many health benefits to receiving a Hot Stone Massage.
Hot stone massage is proven to be safe and effective in treating the following:
- arthritis
- carpal tunnel
- tension from strained muscles
- muscle spasms and chronic stress
Using the hot stones during a massage, improves circulation and “energy flow” throughout the body, aiding in detoxification, activating our immune systems.
Hot Stone that are used during a treatment are smooth and typically several inches long. The stones are warmed in an electrical warmer so the temperature can be controlled. If the stones are too hot, be sure to let the massage therapist know immediately.
Deep Muscle Relaxation
The heat from the stones helps your muscles relax, allowing the massage therapist to manipulate your deep tissues more effectively. Overly tense muscles can hinder the massage procedure, so if your muscles are extremely tight or stiff, the heated stones may provide the extra relaxation you need for the massage to be beneficial in releasing tension and easing sore muscles.
The therapist will use hot stones throughout the massage and will place several stones in strategic “energy points” or acupressure points of the body, including the spine, hands, feet and even toes to help prepare the body for massage.
We generally recommend that you book a 90 minute session if you would like a full Hot Stone Treatment, but therapists can also accommodate 60 minute Hot Stone sessions.
Who Shouldn’t Get a Hot Stone Treatment?
If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, varicose veins, migraines, rheumatoid arthritis, decreased pain sensitivity, recent wounds, areas of weakened or inflamed skin, tumors, metal implants, or are on medication that thins the blood, check with your doctor before getting hot stone massage. In general, hot stone massage should not be done on anyone who should not receive standard massage therapy.
Also check with your doctor if you have had recent chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
Pregnant women and children should avoid hot stone massage.