Hot Stone Massage
WHAT IS HOT STONE MASSAGE?
Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A HOT STONE MASSAGE?
Before you arrive, the massage therapist sanitizes the stones and heats them in 120 to 150 degree water. The therapist uses traditional strokes of Swedish massage while holding a heated stone. As the stone cools, the therapist replaces it with another. The therapist might also leave heated stones in specific points along your spine, or in the palms of your hand, or even between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body.
WILL A HOT STONE MASSAGE HURT?
A therapist who is performing a hot stone massage is capable of applying deeper pressure than with the hands or elbows, but you should never be in pain. We want you to communicate with your therapist and let her know if the pressure is uncomfortable and whether the heat of the stones is correct.
WHY DOES A HOT STONE MASSAGE COST MORE?
There is quite a bit more preparation and clean up time related to a stone massage. The massage generally lasts longer too!
What are the benefits of hot stone massage?
The benefits of stone massages are the same as regular massage, except that you will have deeper muscle relaxation. The stones may be placed over the body's surface and left there while the therapist works on other specific areas. These stones therefore act like a heating pad and provide heat therapy even when the therapist isn't working in that area. Because of this ability you will feel even more throughly relaxed.
