subject: Defeat Stress And Promote Well Being By Means Of An Invigorating Hot Stone Massage [print this page] Hot stone massage therapy - a variation on classic methods - melts away tension, eases muscle stiffness, and increases circulation and metabolism in sessions that usually last 90 minutes. Hot stone massage therapy features the placement of smooth, water-heated stones at key points on the body, including specific points on the back, in the palms of the hand, and between the toes to allow for deeper relaxation of the muscles.
Hot stone massage therapy provides the ultimate in relaxing and healing massage. After the proper amount of time, the stones are removed and used by the massage therapist to continue rubbing them over your muscles. During a hot stone massage, the therapist is able to apply more deliberate pressure because the stones have been relaxed by the heat. The points where the therapist places the rocks is very important, as they are the thought to be the energy replenishment areas of the body where the body and mind are realigned.
Deeper muscle penetration and relaxation is one of the attributes that makes the hot stone massage therapy so popular. It is also proven to improve one's circulation and flush out toxins that could be harmful to your body. If you suffer from any of the following medical ailments, hot stone massage therapy could be just what you need:
Muscle pains and aches;
Upper and lower back pain;
Effects of anxiety and stress;
Symptoms of arthritis;
Fibromyalgia;
Insomnia;
Depression.
The stones used in stone massage therapy are actually river rocks, whose surface has been smoothed over time by the flow of the water in which they were found. These stones are able to retain heat for long periods of time because they are rich in iron and heated by an electrical device that brings them to just the right degree of warmth.
One of the things that make the hot stone massage so popular is the comfortable and relaxing sensation brought on by the warmth of the hot stones. The technique is particularly popular among those who suffer from stress and tension-related symptoms but prefer a lighter massage, because hot stone massage therapy makes the muscles easier to manipulate.
The rocks used in hot stone massage therapy are about the size of an egg, but are flat and smooth. The temperature is carefully calculated and monitored by your massage therapist to insure the ultimate in relaxation.
The technique used for hot stone massage therapy is two-part. First the procedure is applied to your back with you lying face-down on the massage table. After the rocks have remained on the key points for the right amount of time, the therapist will remove them and use them for the balance of the massage. Most therapists prefer to use oil when performing a hot stone massage to help the rocks glide more smoothing over the skin. When that has been completed, he will repeat that procedure on the front of your body, placing the rocks between your toes and in the palm of your hand.
Hot stone massage therapy is not for everyone. It is not recommended if you have: rash, skin disease or wounds; recently had surgery or radiation treatment/chemotherapy or are prone to blood clots. If you are pregnant, consult with physician before engaging in hot stone massage therapy.
