Hot Stone Treatments

There are several forms of hot stone massage offered at most spas. The types range from general massage to massage of specific areas. Hot stone massages are believed to promote relaxation, improve circulation, increase bodily energy, and provide deeper massage than traditional massage techniques. This article explains the different hot stone massage treatments:

General Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is a specialty massage technique that uses smooth, warmed basalt (volcano rock). It is said to be a deeply relaxing form of massage, and the heat from the rocks is said to help release muscle tension. Before the massage begins, the therapist warms the rocks in warm water. The technique uses the same basic strokes as a Swedish massage; however, basalt stones are substituted for the use of fingers. As the stones cool, the massage therapist replaces them with warm stones. Additionally, the massage therapist may lay warm stones on you as a means of increasing the flow of energy in your body.

Hot Stone Foot Massage

Hot stone foot massages use the same basalt stones and techniques as a general hot stone massage. The heat in the stones is said to be very relaxing, and it improves blood flow circulation in your feet and legs.

Hot Stone Back Massage

Hot stone back massage uses the same techniques and has the same effects as a general hot stone massage. The difference is that a general hot stone massage focuses on the entire body where a hot stone back massage focuses primarily on your back. Hot stone back massages are said to be more relaxing that typical Swedish massages because the heat from the stones allows the therapist to massage deeper with less pressure.

Hot Stone Prone Massage

A hot stone prone massage is similar to a general full body hot stone massage, but hot stone prone massages target specific areas and muscles rather than focusing on the whole body. Generally, a hot stone prone massage therapist focuses on your feet, legs, gluteus muscles, back of arms, entire back, and neck.

Hot Stone Facial Massage

Hot stone facial massages use traditional Asian stones, or yen stones, that are smooth, round, donut-shaped stones. Basalt stones are not typically used in hot face massages because their surface is too coarse and can cause micro-scratches on the delicate tissues of the face. Heating pads are generally used to heat the yen stones, as opposed to the water-heating technique used in general hot stone massage. Hot stone facial massage is said to be very relaxing, and, in addition, it stimulates the nervous system. A stimulated nervous system increases blood and lymph circulation, restoring damaged skin cells and improving facial appearance.

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