Most of us have had a massage of some sort or another, whether at a salon or at home, but have you tried hot stone massage? Hot stone massage is when the massage therapist heats stones and then places them in specific spots on your body to relax your muscles.
Origins of hot stone massage
Many Native Americans would warm stones on the fire and then use them to treat aching muscles. Some form of hot stone massage was also used in ancient Egypt and India. Nowadays, stones are generally warmed with hot water in an electric heating device until they reach the optimal temperature for this treatment.
The stones then are placed in key spots along your spine, between your toes, in the palms of your hands and elsewhere on your body. The massage therapist may also hold the hot stone in their hand while giving you a Swedish massage. Some say that a massage stroke with a hot stone is equivalent to 10 strokes without one.
Hot stone massage benefits
The hot stones relax your muscles and tissues to relieve stress and pain. Also, the stones can help your body to release toxins and improve circulation. Many therapists believe that hot stone massage can be used to treat much more than back pain or tension. Arthritis, circulatory problems and anxiety are oftentimes treated with this type of massage. Some research shows that hot stone massage can help with conditions such as insomnia, depression and even infertility.
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LaStone Therapy
You may have seen some spas advertising LaStone Therapy. This trademarked type of massage uses hot stones, as well as frozen or chilled marble stones. The hot and cold temperatures both stimulate and relax the circulatory system, promoting detoxification and movement of fluids in the body. This method was developed by massage therapist Mary Nelson of Tucson, Arizona in 1993. Therapists must be certified to perform this type of treatment. LaStone Therapy has a spiritual component too, as the therapist aims to open up the energy channels of the body.
Is hot stone massage right for you?
If you are a mom who is looking to relax, but you don't like the deep pressure of a traditional massage, then a hot stone massage may be the answer for you.
Most moms are dealing with stress and tension on a daily basis. And as we get older, back pain, insomnia, poor circulation and even arthritis can become issues. If you are looking for a natural way to treat these conditions, then hot stone massage may be worth a shot.
If you have recently had surgery, are prone to blood clots or are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor before having any type of massage. If you have a rash, inflamed skin or open wounds, you also should refrain from massage until you are healed. If the stones feel too hot at any point during your massage session, be sure to let your therapist know immediately.
The cost of a hot stone massage varies from spa to spa and therapist to therapist, but you should expect to pay about $100-$150 for an hour session.
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