Increases Range Of Motion And Flexibility
Along with increased circulation and reduced stress, one of the biggest benefits of massage is that it can improve your range of motion and flexibility. For this reason, massage can help people heal from sports injuries and even prevent them in the first place. A body that is more flexible is less likely to become injured.
The hot stones are especially beneficial for people who want their massage to result in greater flexibility. Thermal techniques have long been used for stretching. For example, hot yoga has been shown to help people achieve a deeper stretch, and thermal compresses are often used when treating areas of the body that have experienced trauma.
Flushes Waste Out Of Your System
Some massage therapists will use lymphatic drainage massage techniques. Lymphatic drainage involves applying pressure in certain areas on the body to increase the flow of lymph icon-trusted-source National Cancer InstituteLymphatic FluidView Source, which is clear fluid that flows from the lymphatic system and carries cells that fight infection. This may assist the body in flushing waste out more efficiently.
But even if your massage therapist isnt schooled in the art of lymphatic drainage, the hot stones may still help your body process waste. This is because heat widens your blood vessels icon-trusted-source BritannicaWhy Does Heat Relax Your Muscles?View Source and allows your blood to quickly transport themor excess lactic acid from your latest workoutout of your system.
What Is Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massages use hot or cold stones to promote relaxation and reduce pain. These techniques date back to ancient China, the South Pacific, and even the Hawaiian Islands. Basalt is the most commonly used stone by masseuses today. These volcanic rocks are flat, smooth, and retain heat.
They also channel healing energies from deep in the Earth. Stones must be flat and smooth so that they can be cleaned easily. Porous rocks can harbor bacteria and are difficult to clean.
The Origin Of Hot Stone Massage
Although the massage therapys origins are disputed, most agree that it originated in China approximately 2,000 years ago. Heated stones were widely used in Chinese medicine during this period to improve the function of important organs.
This is how the relaxation element was discovered and made this treatment a staple in spas worldwide.
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Precautions To Take When Conducting Hot Stone Massage
There are certain things you need to keep in mind when performing a hot stone massage.
Firstly, you need to understand that this type of massage cannot be performed on everybody.
It is a good idea to obtain the approval of a doctor before you start the massage.
Moreover, you need to ensure that the stones donât get too hot and end up scalding the skin.
The hot stone massage is one of the most popular and effective types of massage.
One which you will benefit learning more about, and one that will certainly make you a more valuable and demanded massage therapist.
If you are in the market for hot stones to use during your massage, have a look at our recommended online store here.
Which also give you a good discount on your purchase.
Who Can Benefit From Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone Massage Therapy helps people who suffer from:
- Depression or anxiety
- Poor circulation
You can learn more about Nexus Massage & Rehab today by visiting our website and seeing what we believe in and how we can help you relax with a Hot Stone Massage treatment.
People who suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, Varicose veins, Migraines, rheumatoid arthritis, decreased pain sensitivity, recent wounds, areas of weakened or inflamed skin, tumors, metal implants, recent chemotherapy, radiation or surgery or are on medication that thins the blood and pregnant women are recommended not to try Hot Stone Massage.
If these benefits sound appealing, you can treat yourself to a Hot Stone Massage at Yonge and Eglinton with easy online booking and direct billing, this can be a convenient way to see a qualified Hot Stone registered massage therapist.
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What Is The Difference Between Hot And Cold Stone Massage
While Hot Stone called Thermotherapy expands blood Vessels and helps to draw blood through the body and rid it of waste and is used to help patients increase circulation, decrease joint pain etc.
Cold Stone Massage is called Cryotherapy and contracts blood vessels and stimulates the nervous system it also helps to pull excess heat out of inflamed areas easing muscular injury and reinvigorating the body and is used to help patients with reducing inflammation or redness, decrease tension headaches, heal acute injuries etc.
Reduced Stress And Anxiety Levels
Stress and anxiety are a problem that more and more people suffer as a result of their busy lifestyles. This causes the worries or inconveniences of everyday life to turn into small charges of negative energy.
However, among the multiple treatments that exist for this, techniques with hot stones are effective in attacking and reducing stress levels. Thanks to this massage, energy flows, and harmony are achieved between body, mind, and spirit.
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What Is Hot Stone Massage And What Are The Benefits
Written by
25 August, 2022
Muscular pain develops as a result of a series of factors ranging from stress, insomnia, anxiety, circulatory problems, or even joint problems. Thats why all kinds of therapies have been developed to solve these problems, such as a hot stone massage.
This is a treatment that combines common therapeutic massage with the application of stones on the skin at different elevated temperatures. This can help the flow of vital energy and alleviate physical and emotional disorders.
Here, youll find all the information you need regarding hot stone massage!
What Exactly Is A Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage is exactly what it sounds like: a massage therapist uses heated rocks to work on your tired muscles and release tension in your body. Theyre typically black flat river or volcanic rocks that have a smooth surface and hold onto heat well.
Before the massage, your therapist will heat the stones up in temperature-controlled water. Feel the Burn: Hot Stone MassageView Sourcethis inconsistent heat can make the stone burning hot in some places and icy cold in others.)
The stones should reach a temperature between 110 and 145° Fahrenheit so they dont burn your skin.
Some massage therapists will place a protective layer like a sheet or towel between your skin and the rocks to prevent injury. The therapist will place the hot stones along your spine, but depending on the kind of massage youve requested, they can also be used on your chest, arms, legs, feet, or face. The stones are used to heat and loosen up your muscles. After a little while, the massage therapist will use massage oil and the slightly cooled-down stones to rub your sore areas.
A hot stone massage is often combined with a Swedish massage icon-trusted-source WebMDWhat Is Swedish Massage?View Source or deep tissue work that either precedes or follows the hot stone treatment. The whole treatment will usually last between 60 and 90 minutes.
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Soothing Healing And Relaxing
Unique from our Signature Hot Stone Massage, Himalayan Salt Stone Massage uses warm crystal stones to soothe away stress and tension and promotes an increased sense of well-being. The benefits you can enjoy with the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage include: relaxes, rejuvenates, stimulates circulation and promotes collagen stimuli.
Book your next massage adding Himalayan Salt Stones* for the utmost massage experience.
*Available at participating spas only.
What To Expect During A Hot Stone Massage
After you lie down, smooth, flat stones are placed at specific points on the body and gently moved along the muscles. The hot stones help the massage therapist ease into the muscle tissue at a deeper level while applying less pressure to the muscles, thereby avoiding any resistance by the muscles to lock up or resist the work. The extra warmth provides faster therapeutic results and deep relaxation, Lynch explains.
The hot stones are more of an add-on to a typical deep pressure massage than something that steals the show. However, as a sensual Taurus, nearly everything about this experience appealed to methe plush robe, the aromatic body oils, the zen spa music,” the feeling of hot rocks on my skin.
While some massages feel akin to getting beat up on the playground, this 60-minute massage was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. The pressure was just right, and dare I say it, I felt blissfully relaxed by the end… maybe for the first time since I went freelance and forewent 401K matching and proper health insurance.
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What Should I Expect During A Hot Stone Massage
Before a massage, talk with your therapist to discuss your comfort level. Include any medical conditions or sensitivities you may have so they can customize your massage. They may have you fill out a confidential questionnaire or client profile form to ensure you get the most out of your appointment.
Massages often take place in a relaxing environment. Soundscapes, low lighting and essential oils and aromas could be included. If there are any features you dont want present during your massage, simply inform your therapist and theyll adjust their approach.
When ready, youll lie down on a massage table or bed. The heated Himalayan stones will be placed on specific areas and points of your body. This could include your face, palms, stomach, chest, spine and feet. The heat will be warm but gentle, encouraging muscle relaxation.
Throughout your appointment, the stones will be delicately moved around your body and worked into the muscles with light pressure. This can be combined with massage techniques, such as kneading, circular movement and vibration to enhance your experience.
Your appointment will typically last around 75 minutes. Afterward, your massage therapist can give you aftercare instructions and advise you on how often to schedule regular appointments.
How Does It Work And What Does It Feel Like
Our Massage Therapy expertsplace the stones in warm water to heat them within the precise temperature of between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Hot Stone Massage starts with a traditional Swedish Massage to prepare the muscles. The therapist then places the hot stones on key acupuncture points on the body. The weight and heat of the stones relax the muscle to allow deeper pressure during the massage.
Using massage oil and long gliding strokes the therapist will massage the neck, back, arms and legs with and without stones.
Allow plenty of time for your hot stone treatment. If it is your first time, we will ask you to complete a pre-treatment health questionnaire. Avoid eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol prior to the treatment.
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How Hot Stone Massage Works
As mentioned above, flat rocks are used for this type of massage.
They are heated up and then placed in different parts of the body.
Generally, stones made from basalt are used for hot stone massages.
This is because basalt is known to retain heat for a long period of time.
Moreover, stones and rocks retrieved from rivers are also considered to be ideal for hot stone massage.
They are smooth and soft, which reduces the risk of scratches and abrasions on your skin.
A massage therapist uses several types of stones when performing a hot stone massage.
The massage therapist has to decide which stone to use on which part of the body.
For instance, the stones used on the back would be different than those placed on the palms.
To heat the stones, the therapist first dips them in water and then heats them up using a special machine.
Usually, a thermo-regulated electronic machine is used to ensure that the stones are heated to a specific temperature.
Otherwise, they might either burn the skin or have no effect.
The stones then carry out the purpose which the therapist might otherwise use his/her hands for, i.e. work on the different muscles in the body.
However, this is not compulsory. In many cases, the massage therapist would place the stones directly on your skin.
Sometimes, a sheet is placed before putting the stones on the clientâs body.
The purpose is to get the heat to deep parts of the body. The heat loosens the muscles of the body and allows you to relax.
Helps You Sleep Better
When youre relaxed, youll sleep better. One study on hot stone massage therapy found that people experienced better sleep quality icon-trusted-source Journal of Research in Medical SciencesImpact of hot stone massage therapy on sleep quality in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: A randomized controlled trialView Source after the treatment.
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Misconceptions Of The Practice
There are a manifold of common misconceptions surrounding the practice of stone massage largely derived from graphic and media representations of the practice. Mainstream representation of the massage often involves the stones being directly placed on the clients skin, whilst the real life application of the practice rarely involves this method, instead using a cloth or towel to separate the stones from direct contact with the skin. Many individuals avoid the practice due to fear of burns or pain from this widespread misconception. It is often commonly misconceived that the massage is a set, standard practice and routine that is applied to every client. Professional treatments vary depending on the needs of the client and skills acquired by the therapist to suit the therapy being applied. Representation of the practice commonly shows the stones arranged in an orderly pattern down the centre of the clients back, tracing the spine. The specialist stones are placed all around the body, commonly avoiding the crevice of the spine, focusing on the areas of concern for the client.
Hot Stone Massage Therapy Course
Youve learned a lot about hot stone massage, and youre itching to put your new knowledge into practice. However, theres still a lot more to learn. If youd like to make hot stone techniques a part of your everyday practice, we highly recommend the Panda Hot Stone Massage Therapy Course.
In this course, youll learn to:
- Understand the history of hot stone massage in greater detail
- Identify the benefits of hot stone massage for clients
- Recognize both indications and contraindications
- Bend thermotherapy and cryotherapy with hot stones
- Perform a full sequence of hot stone massage techniques
At Panda, we pride ourselves on offering the best online massage CEU courses available anywhere. Our affordable prices, professional narration, quality content, and course variety are second to none. To learn more about what Panda has to offer, click here.
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Lets Go Over What Someone Can Expect During A Hot Stone Massage
Before the massage begins, the stones will be cleaned and warmed in 120-150 degree water. The localized heat and weight of the rocks allow for improved blood circulation and an easing of tense muscles that allow for deeper muscle layers to be reached. Your therapist will start out the treatment by warming up your muscles with a traditional Swedish massage. Once your muscles are loosened, the massage therapist will begin to add the hot stones. While some therapists will place the stones on your body based on anatomy, others believe that different placements allow for better energy flow and will place stones according to energy points. Either way, stones will usually be placed along your spine, stomach, arms, legs, and palms. Larger stones will normally be placed on larger muscles while the smaller stones are reserved for smaller tissues. After the stones are added, your massage therapist will use the stones as extensions of his or her hands and use them to apply pressure to your muscles. As the stones cool, the therapist will replace them.Due to the heat of the stones, there should always be a sheet or towel between the stone and your skin. If the stone is too hot or the pressure too intense, do not hesitate to let your therapist know, they will happily adjust to your preferences. If you are not comfortable with hot stones, lava shells and steamed towels are excellent alternatives if you still wish to incorporate heat into your massage.
What Are The Benefits Of Getting A Hot Stone Massage
The benefits of massage therapy in general are plentiful. Theres evidence showing that it may reduce anxiety icon-trusted-source Complementary Therapies in Clinical PracticeEffect of massage therapy on pain, anxiety, relaxation, and tension after colorectal surgery: A randomized studyView Source and stress icon-trusted-source Perceptual and Motor SkillsMassage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stressView Source and improve sleep. Theres limited research on how massage therapy can boost immunity, relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases icon-trusted-source Journal of Clinical RheumatologyFibromyalgia Pain and Substance P Decrease and Sleep Improves After Massage TherapyView Source, and help minimize some cancer symptoms icon-trusted-source Journal of Pain and Symptom ManagementMassage therapy for symptom control: outcome study at a major cancer centerView Source.
The biggest benefit of a hot stone massage is, duh, the heat. Heat can help your muscles relax and increase the benefits you feel from the whole massage. This doesnt mean you wont feel great or get benefits with a regular deep tissue or Swedish massagethe hot stones can just help make the treatment even better.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of getting a hot stone massage:
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Hot Stone Massage Benefits
Though the benefits of hot stone massages have not been researched extensively, it is generally accepted to be a valuable treatment for individuals with anxiety, back pain, depression, insomnia, and osteoarthritis. According to massageenvy.com, hot stone therapy can also reduce pain and muscle spasms, chronic stress and muscle tension. This technique, like sports massage, can increase flexibility and allow for easier mobility. It has also been known to relieve pain and tension created by contracted muscles. The heat from the stones not only causes muscles to relax which allows for deeper tissue access but also expands blood vessels which results in better blood flow. This massage technique is best used on individuals who run a little chilly and those who prefer a lighter touch during a massage. Because the stones heat relaxes the muscles so easily, therapists can use a lighter touch while still reaching deeper tissues, making this an ideal treatment for the more sensitive client.Although the benefits from hot stone massages can be excellent and numerous, you should first consult with your healthcare provider before booking an appointment. There are a number of before and after hot stone massage examples, online that might suggest this as a good option for some. If you have a history of medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy and more, a discussion with your doctor before getting a hot stone massage would be in your best interests.