About Hot Stone Massage

This is a specialised massage therapy designed to relax the body and mind. This therapy uses heated stones to soothe sore muscles, relieve pain and reduce stress. Various cultures have used this ancient alternative therapy for centuries. These include the Egyptian, Native American, and Chinese civilisations.

In a hot stone massage, therapists use both their hands and heated basalt stones to massage the body. The therapist may place these stones on specific acupuncture points on the body. These may include areas around the lower back, neck and shoulders. The aim is to release tension and improve energy flow.

The combination of heat and massage stimulates circulation, eliminates toxins, and relieves various physical ailments.

Basalt stones are chosen for their high iron and magnesium content, which helps them retain heat for a long time. Basalt stones provide a constant and soothing warmth throughout the massage. The temperature of the stones is around 40-60 degrees Celsius, which is safe and comfortable for most people.

A hot stone session begins with the therapist applying a lubricating oil to the skin. This facilitates the smooth movement of the stones over the body. They use their hands and hot stones to massage the body. They use long strokes, kneading, and circular movements, similar to a Swedish massage.

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Pros and Cons of Hot Stone Massage

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Physical Health Benefits:

• Relieve Muscle Tension: The heat from the stones helps your muscles to relax. This allows the therapist to manipulate your deep tissues more effectively.
• Pain Relief: This massage is great for people with muscle tension and chronic pain. This is because this type of therapy helps to reduce inflammation.
• Improved Circulation: The hot stones have a vasodilating effect, which increases blood flow throughout the body. Increased circulation helps the body to eliminate toxins.
• Promotes Sleep: Research has shown that massage promotes relaxation and sleep.

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Emotional Benefits:

• Stress Relief: The combination of warm stones and a calming environment helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Improved Mental Wellbeing: Many clients report a sense of enlightenment and mental clarity. This massage helps to bring the mind and body into harmony

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Disadvantages of a Hot Stone Massage

While generally safe and beneficial, this massage is not for everyone.

• Heat Sensitivity: If you have a low tolerance for heat, this may not be the right treatment for you.
• Medical Conditions: You should consult a healthcare professional before receiving a massage if you have any of the following: bleeding disorders, skin conditions, a history of blood clots, recent surgery, diabetes.
• Recent Injuries: It’s important to avoid this type of massage if you have any open wounds or fractures.

If you are pregnant, we would recommend a pregnancy massage instead of this massage.

Click here to find out more about antenatal massage.

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Hot Stone Massage: What to Expect

1. Consultation: Your therapist will ask about any medical conditions or areas of concern.
2. Preparation: You will lie on a massage table while we heat the stones.
3. Massage: The therapist will place heated stones on different parts of your body. The therapist will apply oil to your skin and use the stones to perform different massage strokes. The warmth of the stones allows the therapist to apply more pressure without causing discomfort.
4. Cool Down: After the treatment, take a few minutes to rest before getting dressed. As with all regular massages, we invite you to enjoy a cup of tea afterwards.

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Is Hot Stone Massage Painful?

The stones measure only a few inches long and we heat them to a safe temperature for the body.

This type of massage therapy should be a relaxation massage session. The therapist uses the heat to reach your deep tissues and tight muscles more easily without hurting you. Tell your therapist immediately if you feel any pain.

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Hot Stone Massage vs Deep Tissue Massage

Although both therapies aim to relieve deep muscle tension, the methods and experiences are different:

• Application of Heat: A hot stone session uses (of course) heated stones, whereas deep tissue massage does not.
• Level of Pressure: Deep tissue involves more intense, targeted manipulation.
• Pain Factor: Many people find a hot stone session to be more comfortable and less painful than deep tissue massage.

Click here to learn more about deep tissue massage.

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Hot Stone Massage vs Swedish Massage

Hot stone massage and Swedish massage are both revered for their relaxation and therapeutic benefits.

Swedish massage involves using long gliding strokes, kneading, rubbing, tapping, and gentle stretching. While both modalities aim to soothe and rejuvenate, the choice between them often comes down to personal preference.

Those who seek deep warmth and a unique tactile experience might find themselves attracted to the hot stone massage. Those seeking traditional massage techniques often opt for classic Swedish massage.

Click here to read more about Swedish massage.