What a hot stone massage involves
The practitioner first heats the stones by immersing
them in water, heated in an electric heating device.
The stones are ready when they reach a temperature
of between 54 and 63 degrees Celsius. The massage usually
begins with the client lying face down. The masseur
applies oil on the client’s body and uses the
hot stones to perform a massage by gliding them along
the client’s body or applying pressure on certain
points. The  pressure
of the massage can vary according to the client’s
request or necessities. When the back massage is over,
the same process is repeated on the front of the body.
In addition to using the hot stones as tools to perform
the massage, the therapist can leave the hot stones in
place for a certain amount of time on the receiver’s
body. The hot stones are usually placed along the spine,
between the toes, in the palms of the client’s
hands and along the chakras.
Sometimes, if there is inflammation in the muscles, the
practitioner also applies cold stones on the client’s
body. This acts as a sort of exercise for the veins that
alternatively contract and relax, thus helping the release
of toxins. A hot stone massage usually lasts between
60 and 90 minutes.
Benefits of hot stone massage
The hot stones help the muscle relax, and this makes
the massage more effective and soothing. Also, because
the muscles are relaxed, the therapist does not need
to use deep pressure during the massage.
Hot stone massage helps to improve circulation and can
help reduce stress, anxiety, tension, depression and
insomnia and it can be helpful to relieve the following
conditions:
- Back pain and aches
- Poor circulation
- Muscular aches, pains, sprains, and strains
- Rheumatic and arthritic conditions
Tips and thing to be careful about when receiving a
hot stone massage
- Practitioners should always sterilise the hot
stones by keeping them in water at around 150 degrees
temperature and use gloves to pick them up. Be wary
if these hygiene procedures are not followed.
- If the stones are too hot, speak up and do not endure
a temperature that for you is too high.
- Technique is important; a therapist who did not
receive enough training, probably will not know how
to apply the right pressure. A course in hot stone
massage should last about five days.
- Massage is not recommended: for people who have
infectious skin diseases, rash, or open wounds; immediately
after surgery; immediately after chemotherapy or radiation;
for those prone to blood clots. Pregnant women should
check with their doctor first before getting a massage.
Hot stone massage part
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