HOT STONE MASSAGE

Hot stone massage is a natural therapy in which warmed stones are positioned on parts of the client's body to maximize the therapeutic benefit. The stones used are very smooth-surfaced stones made of basalt. These stones are heated in water before use. The high iron content in basalt helps the stones retain heat during the massage. Hot stone massages are beneficial on both physical and psychological levels.

Always check with your doctor before getting a hot stone massage; individuals with certain conditions--including pregnant women and people with high blood pressure--are advised to avoid this type of therapy.

Muscle Relaxation

The heat from the stones helps your muscles relax, allowing the massage therapist to manipulate your deep tissues more effectively. Overly tense muscles can hinder the massage procedure, so if your muscles are extremely tight or stiff, the heated stones may provide the extra relaxation you need for the massage to be beneficial in releasing tension and easing sore muscles.

COLD STONE TREATMENTS ALSO AVAILABLE

While hot stone therapy seems to be on the menu of spas everywhere, its lesser-known chilly counterpart is an equally effective technique for promoting relaxation and relieving discomfort. Cold stone massage, whether it’s performed with only cold stones or in conjunction with hot stones, helps lower stress, improve circulation and soothe inflammation to treat a variety of maladies. Cold stone massages are generally well tolerated, although you may need to consult a doctor if you have certain conditions that may contraindicate massage.