subject: Melt Away Your Stressful Day But Also Increase Well Being By Way Of Invigorating Hot Stone Massage [print this page] Hot stone massage therapy - the strategic placement of heated rocks on key points of your body - is a variation of traditional massage and has been proven to ease tension, eliminate muscle stiffness and improve circulation. The key points targeted with hot stone massage are located in the toes, back and hand, and the temporary placement of heated rocks on these areas relaxes the muscles in preparation for deeper pressure by your massage therapist.
Your massage therapist will administer a customized hot stone massage, by rubbing the body with stones to create the ultimate healing and relaxing experience. Because the warm heat from the stones helps to relax the muscles, it allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure. Strategic placement of the rocks during the hot stone massage is important, as they are thought to be the energy centers of the body that returns balance to the mind and body.
Not only is hot stone massage therapy so popular because it allows for deeper muscle and tissue relaxation, but because it aids in flushing out toxins, while improving circulation. Hot stone massage is also used in treating the following ailments:
Muscle pains and aches;
Upper and lower back pain;
Effects of anxiety and stress;
Symptoms of arthritis;
Fibromyalgia;
Insomnia;
Depression.
So what types of rocks are used in stone massage therapy? The river rocks used in stone massage therapy have been made smooth by the current of the river over time. Made of basalt, they are rich in iron so they retain heat. After being immersed in water, they are placed in a device that heats them to the proper temperature.
The hot stone massage technique is very popular, but it is particularly so among anyone who suffers from stress-related symptoms and who are more comfortable with a massage that is administered with a lighter stroke. As mentioned before, during the process of hot stone therapy, the muscles become easier to work with as a result of the warmth being directed to them.
Apprehensive about the thought of hot rocks being placed on your body? No need to be ... the stones - which are only about the size of a large egg - are always smooth and flat. And the therapist takes every precaution to be sure that the temperature of the rocks is within your range of comfort.
To begin your hot stone massage session, your therapist will ask that you lie face down on the table so that he/she can place the hot stones on the key points on your back. When the muscles have been sufficiently warmed, the therapist will continue your hot stone massage by removing the rocks and using them to rub your back with just the right amount of pressure needed to provide complete relaxation. Most massage therapists like to incorporate some type of cream, oil or lotion into hot stone massage therapy to allow the stones to run smoothly over your skin. Your massage therapist will then ask that you lie on your back so that he can address the front of your body, by placing the hot stones on the palms of your hands and between your toes.
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.
