Hot stone massage therapy has been a regular practice for many cultures around the world for thousands of years and is considered to be one of the most relaxing forms of massage therapy available.
Hot stone massage therapy shares much in common with any traditional massage, however, there are some added elements that make this a truly extraordinary therapeutic treatment for clients.
If you wish to study SOMATOLOGY/HEALTH AND SKINCARE/BEAUTY THERAPY/MASSAGE THERAPY, you will learn that this type of massage involves the use of basalt rocks/stones. These particular stones are chosen because they retain heat for longer periods.
The massage therapists hold the pre-heated heated stones in their hands and use them to massage and place them on different points of the body (problem areas).
This allows the qualified massage therapist to work deeper into the muscles without applying more pressure, and without causing discomfort/burn. The heat will help to release tension in the muscles that are being worked on, while the massage will help to relax the entire body.
In HEALTH AND SKINCARE/SOMATOLOGY/BEAUTY THERAPY/MASSAGE THERAPY, a qualified and well-trained therapist will conduct a consultation before your session starts to discuss your concerns and determine the best location for the placement of the stones based on your needs and their evaluation of your physical condition.
There are many benefits to having hot stone massage therapy, these include:
- Deep relaxation induced
- Relief from chronic pain
- Stress relief
- Decrease in anxiety
- Increased joint flexibility
- Decreased muscle spasms and tension
- Improved sleep
- Improved circulation
- Boosts Your Immunity
Despite the many benefits associated with hot stone massage, it is not an appropriate therapy for everyone. Contra-indications to hot stone massage therapy include:
- Injuries or breaks in the skin
- Recent or severe bruising
- Sunburn
- Varicose veins
- Clients with a fever/cold/flu
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Reactions that may occur during or after the hot stone massage therapy
- Erythema
- Nausea
- Thirst
- Sleepy
- Headache
- Hunger
Reactions usually occur as a sign that the body shows from the effects of the treatment. They are the body’s way of cleansing itself or eliminating toxins that have built up over time as well as self-healing. These reactions are completely normal as it is the body’s way of normalizing in order to reach a state of homeostasis.