Hot stone therapy uses flat, smooth and heated basalt stones. It is a specialist massage therapy in which these stones are positioned along your spine, in the palms of your hands, legs, and toes. This therapy can be traced back over 2000 years. It was extensively used by the Chinese to improve the function of internal organs. Basalt stones are typically found in river beds and are used for massage as they have a rich iron content that retains heat. Sometimes, cold marble stones are also used in the treatment to help detox and heal the body. If you want a relaxing experience, search for ‘hot stone massage near me’ and choose the best service.
What Is The Difference Between A Regular Massage Therapy And Hot Stone Therapy?
The main difference between both therapies is the use of hot stones to apply pressure during hot stone massage therapy sessions that promote relaxation. While the regular massage treatment does not use hot stones to massage the body but rather focuses on pressure points and muscles, and the massage therapist applies the pressure from their hands. You can google ‘hot stone massage near me’ if you want this amazing experience.
How Does It Work?
The therapy may start with a traditional Swedish massage technique in order to prepare your muscles. First, the spa therapist will warm the basalt stones until they are in the temperature range of between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm stones will then be placed on key acupressure points on your body. This will warm and relax your muscles and allow deep pressure to be applied during the massage. A massage oil will be then used, along with a combination of strokes and techniques, to massage your neck, arms, leg, and back. This can be done with or without the stones.
You should make sure that you inform your spa therapist if the stones are too hot or if the pressure is too intense. Also, see that you allow plenty of time for your hot stone treatment. For this, ensure that you arrive 10 minutes early to get time to relax. You may be asked to complete a pretreatment health quiz if it is your first time. If you have an appointment, avoid eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol.
Is It Right For Me?
However, you should remember that hot stone massage therapy is not recommended if you suffer from high blood pressure, heart disease, migraines, diabetes, varicose veins, decreased pain sensitivity, tumours, recent chemotherapy, rheumatoid arthritis, recent wounds, metal implants, radiation, surgery, areas of weakened or inflamed skin, or if you are on medication for blood thinning. In case you have any serious medical condition, you are required to provide the spa with a letter from your doctor confirming that it is suitable for you to have a hot stone massage. Also, you should let your therapist know if you are pregnant.
Conclusion
Hot stone massage therapy has plenty of health benefits, like relaxing tense muscles and increasing lymphatic flow. Going for this treatment can be a truly amazing and relaxing experience for you.
Featured Image Source: https://media.istockphoto.com/id/531971274/photo/adult-woman-having-hot-stone-massage-in-spa-salon.jpg?b=1&s=170667a&w=0&k=20&c=Rzre3Vbkl0W09BDwBFGnHW7p8_OuVI3CNZL7nXtwJJU=