What is Hot Stone Massage?

Written by Lyndi Hutchinson, LMT |

Hot stone massage is similar to a Swedish massage, but incorporates smooth, flat, basalt stones, heated usually by water.

The heated stones are strategically placed on the body. Stones vary in size and purpose – the largest stones, about 5-6 inches long, are used on the lower back and sometimes placed in the palm of the client’s hand. Medium-sized stones, about 3-4 inches, are set on specific places on the back – along the medians or chakras (life lines that run throughout the body).

These stones can also be used as tools by the therapist – for added pressure and warmth as the massage continues. Small stones, about 1-2 inches, can be placed between the toes, fingers and be used in facial massage.

The heat of the stones is very soothing and penetrates down to help relieve muscle tension.  A deeper massage is more easily attained once the tissue is warmed. After removing the stones, the massage therapist massages the client with oil.

Stone massage, which can also be performed with cooled stones, is centuries old.  As long as three thousand years ago, throughout ancient China and India, warmed stones were used in religious rituals as well as diagnosing disease.

Basalt stones or volcanic rock has been the massage stone of choice by many. Basalt contains a high amount of iron which helps keep the stone hotter for longer periods of time.

If you suffer from stress and tension, this massage method is an excellent answer for deeper relief from pain and body aches!

References:

1. http://healing.about.com/od/massage/a/hotstone.htm

2. http://www.expertvillage.com/video/112022_history-hot-stonemassage.htm

3. http://en.wikpedia.org/wiki/stone_massage

For more info, contact Lyndi Hutchinson, L.M.T. at (775) 846-3593, certified massage therapist specializing in Chinese facial massage at the Senses Sanctuary.