Hot Stone Massage Therapy

Hot stone massage therapy is a relaxing spa treatment that helps to melt away stress, eases muscle stiffness and increases circulation and metabolism. This form of massage therapy promotes deep muscle relaxation through the placement of smooth, heated stones at key points on the body.

Once the warmth of hot stones have penetrated into the muscles this allows the qualified therapist to access deeper muscle layers in order to experience a beneficial therapeutic massage. The combination of hot stones with a deep massage provides a healing experience.

Hot stones expand blood vessels which encourages blood flow throughout the body. Some patients have reported that hot stones have a sedative effect that can relieve chronic pain.

Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage

• Reduces stress, anxiety and tension
• Provides relief from several chronic pain symptoms
• Decreases pain and muscle spasms
• Increases flexibility in joints
• Helps to increase circulation
• Reduces effects of insomnia and depression

What to Expect During a Hot Stone Massage

Sanitized stones are heated in a temperature-controlled heater. The registered massage therapist (RMT) will always hold each stone first before placing them on your body to ensure they are not too hot. Although everyone’s heat tolerance is different you will be asked if the temperature is fine for you so that you do not experience any discomfort.

Your registered massage therapist will apply oil to your body then place the hot stones along your back. The stone are never rough, they are the size of about an egg and very smooth.

This type of a massage is not for everyone. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or if you are on blood thinners, then this type of massage is not recommended. If you are menopausal this may trigger a hot flash and hot stone massages are not for those who are pregnant.