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Hot stone therapy
Hot stone therapy is a relaxing and therapeutic treatment that uses dark, smooth
stones heated in hot water to lightly stroke areas of the body such as the back,
in the palms, and between the toes. Hot stones, made from volcanic material,
are used as the heat relieves sore muscles, alleviates stiffness, and increases
blood flow. Hot stone applications affect the immediate skin area and the nervous
system, treating both local areas and the body as a whole. Hot stone massage
is beneficial for reducing stress, increasing the heart rate and metabolism,
increasing blood and lymphatic circulation, and relaxing tissue.
Hot stone massage involves placing heated rocks and aromatic oils onto the
pressure points to encourage relaxation and calm the soul. Hot stone massage
stimulates the chakras and releases positive energy, promoting a sense of balance,
energy, and peace. The hot stones boost the supply of oxygen and nutrients to
the muscles in order to speed the elimination of waste products out of the system.
The stones connect the client with nature and help them to reach a deep level
of peace within.
Hot Stone Therapy is a system that includes a number of techniques integrating
breathing techniques, shiatsu treatment, lymphatic drainage, therapeutic massage,
heat therapy, acupressure, aromatherapy, and Swedish strokes. Movement of energy
through the body is based on traditional Chinese medicine and the belief that
a healthy body results from the healthy flow of energy (Chi) through the twelve
basic Meridians. Flow of Chi prevents illnesses and promotes an optimal level
of mental, emotional and physical health.
Hot stone sessions are done in a quiet environment that promotes a feeling
of relaxation and peace. The stones are heated to approximately 34°C. Two rows
of hot stones are placed on the treatment table in alignment with both sides
of the spine and then covered with a soft towel. The session begins by lying
back onto these warm stones, then the hot stones are placed over the heart,
on the abdomen and under the neck. The massage begins with heat penetrating
from above and beneath the body. Legs, feet, arms, and hands are worked gently
with massage oil, then the hot stones are used to apply additional pressure
and heat. Once the limbs have been thoroughly massaged and warmed to the bone,
the therapist moves on to the neck, shoulders and facial muscles. Pleasantly
warm stones scented with essential oil are placed on the flat surfaces of the
face. Then the client turns over and the process is repeated on the back, neck,
and shoulders, back of the legs, and feet. Falling asleep or entering a deep
meditative state of mind is a common response to receiving this kind of healing
session. An hour of free time is often recommended following a hot stone session
to allow for maximum benefit of the treatment and easy transition to the rest
of the day’s activities.
Hot stone massage is deeply detoxifying and profoundly relaxing. By combining
massage with hot stones, the circulatory system is both stimulated and relaxed
to promote the release of toxins from the muscles, assisting the body in self-healing.
Also, tense muscles are softened and eased by the deep penetrating heat of the
stones. The combined effect induces a state of enhances relaxation that washes
away stress and allows the body, mind, and spirit to reenergize.
Hot stone therapy dates back centuries to many ancient cultures, including
Native Americans, though has only recently regained popularity.
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