Hot stone massage is a holistic treatment that involves the placement of smooth, heated stones on specific pressure points on the body. Common points include along the spine, on the palms of the hands and between the toes. During your treatment, the temperature of the stones will be carefully controlled and monitored in order to ensure you remain comfortable and that your treatment is effective. Your massage therapist will use the heated stones to apply gentle pressure to your body with a range of massage strokes, including long, gliding stokes, circular movements, tapping and kneading.
There are many benefits to hot stone massage, including:
Muscle relaxation
The heat from the stones aids in the release of tension and in the soothing of sore muscles, reducing stiffness and alleviating pain. The heat, combined with the massage strokes, will allow your therapist to penetrate deeper into the muscle tissue without having to apply excessive pressure.
Reduced stress and anxiety
When combined with heat, massage therapy can induce deep relaxation. Massage also releases endorphins which will circulate the body, reducing anxiety and leaving you feeling calm and peaceful.
Improved circulation
The heat and massage strokes increase blood circulation, which promotes muscle elasticity and better provides the body’s tissues with oxygen and nutrients that are essential to the repair of damaged cells and to the removal of toxins.
Enhanced sleep quality
By decreasing anxiety and promoting relaxation, hot stone massage can help to improve the quality of sleep and help to alleviate insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Pain relief
By increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation, hot stone massage can help to relieve chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle spasms.