Hot Stone Massage
The main difference between a hot stone massage and a regular massage is that the focal point of a hot stone massage is the use of stones to apply pressure during the massage therapy session to promote relaxation.
A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It’s used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body.
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat. The stones may be placed:
- along your spine
- on your stomach
- on your chest
- on your face
- on your palms
- on your feet and toes
Massage therapists may hold heated stones as they massage your body using Swedish massage techniques such as:
- long strokes
- circular movements
- vibration
- tapping
- kneading
Sometimes, cold stones are also used during a hot stone massage. Cold stones may be used after hot stones to calm any engorged blood vessels and to soothe the skin.
- Helps relieve muscle tension and pain. Heat has long been used to ease muscle tension and pain. …
- Reduces stress and anxiety. …
- Promotes sleep. …
- May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases. …
- May help decrease cancer symptoms. …
- May boost immunity.
