My first experience with Hot Stone Therapy was in Colorado, working the 2004-2005 winter season. Since then, many of my clients have also had the chance to experience it here. Only pictures can describe how much they enjoyed it. You have to experience it yourself to completely understand. The best way I can describe being massaged by hot stones: it's like having mini heaters rubbed over your muscles, preparing your muscles for deep tissue massage.
Benefits of Hot Stone Therapy O Reduces back/shoulder/neck pain O Increases circulation O Improves lymphatic circulation O Decreases joint pain O Decreases menstrual pain O Relieves tension headaches
Difference between regular massage and hotstone massage Preparing your body for a regular massage, I need to slowly warm up your tissues to prepare your body for deep tissue massage. With Hotstone massage, your body soaks in the heat quickly, saving the time it takes a regular massage to ready your body for deeper pressure. AND it feels good!
History of hot stones The origin of Hot Stone Therapy dates back more than 5000 years ago. Healers collected stones from riverbeds and warmed them in water or on hot coals. The stones were then used to massage the body to relieve muscle pain and discomfort. They were also placed on the body along energy pathways to allow the prana, or life force, to heal on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. In 1993, Mary Nelson of Arizona intuitively began to use hot stones. Today, she is credited as being the founder of "La Stone Therapy", a world-renowned technique of Hot Stone Massage.
Properties of basalt stones
Basalt stones* are most recommended for use in Hot Stone Therapy. Their ultra smooth texture and strong heat retaining qualities make them the ideal choice. Basalt is formed as lava cools following volcanic eruption. Another important quality of basalt stones is their inherent magnetic field, which helps to rebalance the body's energy centres during a treatment.
*(AndesMountains in South America.)
Is Hot Stone Massage accepted under your benefits?
Everyone is asking! With all the new privacy laws, I can't check for you, but it's a quick phone call to your insurance company. And don't forget to tell them I'm a Registered Massage Therapist
