Hot Stone Massage is a massage technique that uses heated stones to relax and massage sore muscles. The stones can be used for their heat alone, or as massage tools used in combination with essential oils used in aromatherapy or combined with heated bamboo. Basalt rocks are generally used because of their heat retention properties, and are usually heated to around 125-150 degrees using hot water. The smooth, rounded stones are then used in Swedish and Deep Tissue strokes to provide a therapeutic treatment.
Relaxed muscles are easier to work with, allowing access to deeper muscle groups and improving the massage experience. The heat provided by the rocks provides a profound relaxation effect that benefits both the client and the massage therapist. In addition, the heat causes blood vessels to expand, increasing circulation and releasing accumulated tension that has become trapped in body tissues. People who have received hot stone massages have reported considerable improvements in symptoms of neck pain, back pain, TMJ, PMS, stress, depression insomnia, arthritis and even relief from Multiple Sclerosis and the pain of Fibromyalgia.
Relaxed muscles are easier to work with, allowing access to deeper muscle groups and improving the massage experience. The heat provided by the rocks provides a profound relaxation effect that benefits both the client and the massage therapist. In addition, the heat causes blood vessels to expand, increasing circulation and releasing accumulated tension that has become trapped in body tissues. People who have received hot stone massages have reported considerable improvements in symptoms of neck pain, back pain, TMJ, PMS, stress, depression insomnia, arthritis and even relief from Multiple Sclerosis and the pain of Fibromyalgia.