Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone massage is a kind of massage that utilizes smooth and heated stones. The stones are usually basalt, which is a black volcanic rock that soaks up and retain preserve heat well. The hot stone massage is extremely relaxing and soothing, as the heat helps loosen stiff and tense muscles.

There are several advantages to getting a hot stone massage. A hot stone massage is able to relieve stress, free toxins, alleviate pain, encourage deep tissue and muscle relaxation and soothe the psyche. This specialized type of massage can also be used to treat health conditions, which include back pain, sore muscles, arthritis, poor blood circulation, fibromyalgia, anxiety, stress, depression and insomnia.

A stone massage uses either cold or heated stones. Of course, a hot stone massage involves the use of heated stones, particularly water-heated stones. One benefit hot stone massage therapies offer is the soothing effect of the heat. The firm exterior of the stones are perfect for targeting stress points in the body. Massage therapists are able to apply massage techniques with more detail and easy control over the pressure. Water-heated stones are typically used to employ heat and pressure to the body. Stones may also be coated in oil to allow the therapist to employ a wide range of massaging strokes and other methods.

During a hot stone massage session, the stones are often cleaned with disinfectant first. This is the appropriate method during the preparation of the stones. Stones must be cleaned before every session. The stones are then placed in a crockpot on low with water and without a lid. The stones are left in the crockpot for about 30 minutes. This is just one technique in preparing the stones before hot stone massage therapy begins. There are other ways to prepare the stones that you may be most comfortable with.

Of course, the heat of the stones should be something you can stand. Normally, the appropriate temperature does not go over 125 degrees F. You should be open with your massage therapist and ask to test the temperature first. Good communication with your therapist will allow you to get the most out of your hot stone massage.

The hot stone massage session will often begin with you laying face down. The already prepared stones will then be applied onto your upper legs, middle of hamstrings, the back of the knee and the center of the calf. Any traditional massage techniques may be used on your leg while utilizing the heated stones. Larger stones are used as the therapist massages up the muscles of the leg heading toward the heart. Once the session is done, stones are removed one by one while areas of your body are immediately covered.

A hot stone massage will often cost more than basic massage therapies like the Swedish massage. The reason for this is that more preparation is needed and it the session is often longer. Usually a hot stone massage will cost around $125, but you’ll also get extremely relaxing, soothing and healing benefits from just one session.

You can get a hot stone massage from many sources. Small local day spas may offer hot stone massage. However, the best way to go is to do your own research first, as specialized types of massages such as this one will require experienced therapists. You may find listings online as well as those that focus on the top therapists in your area.