Hot Stone Massage
What is Hot Stone Massage?
Hot stone therapy is a traditional method of massage dating back to ancient cultures. Hot stones have been used for thousands of years, originally to rejuvenate tired muscles. The therapeutic effects of heat and touch was recognised by ancient healers across the globe and there is evidence of the use of hot stones in many ways to improve the health and well being of the people they were treating.
What happens at a Hot Stone Massage?
The therapy consists of the use of heated smooth basalt stones, usually heated in hot water. The stones can be used as massage tools as well as a relaxing heat source. Using slow smooth massage strokes, the therapist uses the heat to penetrate the muscles deeply, encouraging speedier relaxation and self healing. It encourages healthy circulation and a sense of calm to the recipient. The additional use of cold stones to certain areas of the body alongside the hot stones promotes dilation of the blood vessels which stimulates the circulation.
What can Hot Stone Massage do for me?
Along with other massage techniques, hot stones can be very soothing and relaxing as they transmit heat deep into the muscles, penetrating and allowing deep relaxation.
The use of hot stone increases circulation, enabling oxygenated blood to flow quickly around the body. By dilating the blood vessels, hot stone therapy increases the blood supply and leads to flushing. The deep penetration of heat into the muscles can also alleviate pain and reduce tension in them, allowing easier manipulation by the therapist.
The application of hot stones gives the client a feeling of peace and calm, thereby reducing stress and allowing a deeper sense of relaxation. The use of cold stones in conjunction with heat also has increased benefits of reducing inflammation and pain by way of an analgesic effect. The alternate use of the stones helps stimulate a ‘pumping’ effect with the dilation and restriction of the blood vessels.
All of these work towards giving the client a whole body experience of deep relaxation and a sense of well-being, giving them respite from day to day pressures and strains.
How much does it cost?
A one hour session of Hot Stone Massage costs £45.00