Hot stone massage therapy is a form of massage that is used to relieve stress, ease muscle tension and improve overall well being. This massage technique involves the use of smooth, heated stones (usually basalt stones) at an approximate temperature of 54 degrees celsius (130 degrees fahrenheit). These are placed onto specific points on the body.
The most common benefits of a hot stone massage include:
Comfort and relaxation: This is a main benefit for almost all massage types. Combined with the movements being performed by the therapist, the heat from the basalt stones can almost instantly make your body and mind feel more at ease.
Pain relief: This type of massage is known to ease pain in the muscles and joints, and heat is a mainstay for relieving muscle tension. As the hot stones are placed on the body, the heat promotes blood flow to those areas, allowing the joints to soften up and relaxing the muscles that are causing the pain.
Improved circulation: Therapeutic massages are usually great for circulation, and a hot stone massage is no exception! The warm temperatures of the stones allow blood and oxygen to flow more freely through the bloodstream by expanding the blood vessels. This naturally improves circulation.
