Stone Massage

What is Stone Massage

This is a practice that is found in many places in the world, from Japan to Greece.

Some hot springs were known for their heated stones, which travelers would use to relieve the ache of their legs from their long walks.

You'll find that many spas or massage therapists have created their own regimen using hot stones, and that it is becoming quite popular in many places.

If you are new to the world of massage, you should be aware that there are many different kinds of massage out there with many different kinds of benefits, and one type of massage that we are seeing much more of -and for good reason!- is stone massage.

How is it Done?

Unlike typical massage, stone massage is performed using the placement of heated stones of different sizes on various points of the body.

The stones, which are pleasantly flat and smooth, are never warm enough to burn, though they will generate a fair amount of heat.

You'll find that the weight of the stone will give you small amount of pressure to the area, and that the massage therapist will also press the stones down, allowing the heat to penetrate to a deeper layer of of your muscle.

The stones that are typically used in stone massage is formed from basalt.

This stone is very rich in iron, which makes it heavier than other rocks and also allow them to retain heat for a longer period of time as well.

Traditionally river rocks have been used for stone massage, because they have been washed by time to be very smooth, but you'll also find that you can get excellent results from stone that has been artificially tumbled.

The stones in stone therapy can be heated in water until they reach a certain temperature range and then they will be removed and placed on specific points on the back, the palms or even between the toes.

If you find that the stones are very difficult to bear, make sure that you make this known to your massage therapist.

This process may also be graduated, as the stones applied at the beginning are used with less pressure than the ones applied near the end, as the muscles have warmed up.

During the procedure, it is customary for the massage therapist to hold the stone in his or her hands first, ensuring that the stones will not burn your skin.

You may also find that cool stones, made out of dense marble, will also be used.

Benefits of Stone Massage

There are many different benefits that are associated with this form of massage therapy.

The stones work to warm and loosen the muscles, leaving the client feeling relaxed and at ease.

The application of heat will also increase the ability of your body to circulate blood, and as such is often recommended from people who suffer from cold hands or feet.

Because this does not involve manipulation from human hands or fingers, this can also be an excellent massage for people who don't like the intensity of Swedish massage or shiatsu.

Stone massage has also been known to help people who have problems with joint inflammation, stress, insomnia and depression.

Precautions

Before you go to your first stone massage session, remember not to eat a heavy meal.

Do not go at all if you have a contagious skin disease or an open wound, or if you have recently underwent surgery, and if you have been undergoing chemotherapy, are pregnant or are prone to blood clots, you should talk to your doctor first.

Taking the proper cautions will allow you to enjoy this wholly pleasing and reviving form of massage therapy!