A hot stone massage is when the therapist uses hot stones to relax the body. This particular massage is becoming more and more popular for several reasons. First, heated stones are used to relieve pain. The process also relaxes the muscles and relieves pain.
Doctors sometimes recommend this massage to improve sleep and blood flow in the body. In addition, some patients find the massage extremely relaxing due to its heat.
Additionally, since the stones are used to deliver heat, they are not left on the skin for long periods. Therefore, the massage therapist can ensure that their client will not be injured or burned during the treatment.
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History of hot stone massage
A hot stone massage is an ancient technique that has been used for centuries. Over 5,000 years ago, Indians used this massage to cure themselves.
The Chinese took the Indian method and applied it to themselves hundreds of years later, after 3,000 years of Indian culture. Both the Indian and Chinese people used this massage to treat certain illnesses.
The modern hot stone massage technique results from Mary Nelson’s invention. The name of her method was derived from the LaStone Method, which requires certification to use. It was a North American approach to therapy.
What can happen during a hot stone massage?
The process usually involves placing hot stones on specific parts of the person’s body seeking a hot stone massage. That is why it is referred to as a hot stone massage.
Generally, basalt stones are used for this purpose. In addition, therapists use basalt stones because they are smooth and can maintain their heat longer than other types of stones.
Once the massage therapist has placed the heated stones on your body, the massage therapist may begin stroking you until comfortable.
Since the stones are approximately 110 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit, therapists may gently use them on the body. However, the patient should also inform the therapist of any discomfort they may experience. It is vital since relaxation is the aim of the therapy.
The therapist may place the hot stones on the following body parts-
- Spine
- Chest
- Face
- Palms
- Feet and Toes
- Stomach
Uses of cold stones
Occasionally, therapists may use both hot and cold stones. However, cold stones are generally used after the hot ones.
It helps to calm inflamed blood vessels and to maintain smooth skin. However, cold stones may also be used independently.
Top 10 Benefits of Hot Stone Massage
Massage therapy is generally considered to be a non-medicine treatment. However, throughout the world, hot stone massages and other forms of massage are becoming increasingly popular.
There are many benefits of a hot stone massage, which include the following:
- It relieves muscle spasms and tension.
- By relaxing the muscles, it eases stress and anxiety.
- It improves sleeping duration.
- Improves blood circulation.
- Improves the energy flow.
- It releases toxins and thus improves the skin tone.
- It makes the massage receiver feel comfortable.
- Sometimes reduces cancer symptoms.
- Sometimes reduces autoimmune disease symptoms.
- Increase the joint flexibility.
Who can take the hot stone massage?
Almost all individuals with muscle tension and stress-related issues can benefit from a hot stone massage. In addition, some doctors recommend that their patients take this type of massage to relieve chronic pain.
The hot stone massage is beneficial to athletes. You can take this massage two to three times per week if you are a sportsperson. Likewise, if you are an occasional patient, one or two times per month will be sufficient.
The disadvantages of hot stone massage
There are some disadvantages of hot stone massage that you should know before scheduling an appointment.
The disadvantages of hot stone massage include that it is not the only option when seeking relaxation.
Receiving a massage using hot stones may actually make one feel more tensed than relaxed because it is so uncomfortable. Additionally, there is a possibility that the person providing the massage may drop one of the stones onto your skin and cause some serious injury. However, you can take precautions to prevent this from occurring.
The primary difference between hot stone massage and other types of massage is that it incorporates heat into the treatment. It is generally not advisable to add warmth deeper than an inch or two into the skin. It can cause damage to fragile blood vessels in any area of your body where it is applied.
Moreover, stone heat can also cause muscle tension in the affected area. In this case, if you are claustrophobic, a hot stone massage is not for you. In addition to being a luxury treatment, it also involves using many more stones than a typical massage.
If you’re trying to lose weight and get in shape, this is not a good choice since it will not help you achieve your goals. However, there is still a possibility that you may suffer an injury during a hot stone massage if you are not cautious.
The heat from the stones can also increase muscle tension and make it more difficult for the person receiving a hot stone massage. It is not for claustrophobic people about being enclosed in a small area, as many people with hot stone massages are.
As well as discomfort during the massage, there is also the possibility that the extra time required for this type of massage will make you feel impatient. This will make you desire the treatment to be completed as soon as possible.
Another disadvantage of hot stone massages is that they are not likely to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Fair enough, a hot stone massage can provide temporary relief from muscle pain caused by excessive stress or exercise.
Risks and warnings associated with hot stone massage
First and foremost, inform your therapist about every aspect of your medical condition. By doing so, the therapist will be able to determine the best type of massage to use on you.
It would be best to keep your therapist informed during the massage so that you do not cause any inconvenience. If you suffer from skin conditions like eczema and rashes, you may make the situation worse by receiving a hot stone massage.
If this is the case, you should refrain from receiving a hot stone massage. In addition, it is not recommended if you have an open wound or inflammation. It is also not recommended for pregnant women.
Below is the recommended quality of hot stone for your massaging practice.
Conclusion
In recent years, people preferred non-medicine treatments over medical treatments. This decision is because these alternatives don’t have side effects almost every time.
Hot stone massage has been proven to be very effective in providing pain relief. Nonetheless, it would be best if you do not undergo a massage without the prior approval of your physician. In addition, you should never get a massage from an inexperienced therapist.
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