During a hot stone massage, a masseuse places heated, smooth stones on certain parts of the body. Common areas include the spine, palms, toes, chest and face, according to the University of New Hampshire’s Health Center website. The masseuse may leave them there or use them to massage muscles and tissues. The stones are made of basalt, are high in iron and retain heat. This form of therapy combines the stones with Swedish massage and deep tissue massage techniques. Hot stone massage therapy offers a multitude of physical and psychological benefits.
Deep Tissue Manipulation
Heated stones warm up and relax the tissues and the muscles. Muscular relaxation helps the therapists release deep seated muscular tension and reduce stress levels, according to the National Holistic Institute. The stones’ heat makes the muscles pliable and prepares them for deep manipulation by the therapist. The Mayo Clinic reports that deep tissue massage helps repair previously injured tissues and ligaments.
Stress Reduction
Hot stone massage promotes overall relaxation and reduces stress levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, high stress levels cause headaches, depression, muscular pain, overeating, digestive problems and sleeping problems. The Mayo Clinic lists stress reduction, depression and anxiety relief as benefits of massage. Therapists use the stones to apply Swedish massage strokes, which consist of gentle, long and circular strokes that promote relaxation and re-energize the person receiving the massage. George Mason University’s Aquatic and Recreation Center reports that stone massage therapy calms the nervous system.
Circulatory and Pain Benefits
Although it is called hot stone therapy, cold and hot stones are often alternated during sessions. Using both cold and hot stones treats pain and reduces inflammation, according to the University of New Hampshire. Additionally, hot stone massage improves circulation; the circulatory system is responsible for carrying freshly oxygenated blood from the heart and lungs to the rest of the body. Poor circulation contributes to peripheral vascular disease, which occurs when the arteries are not able to send sufficient amounts of blood and oxygen to organs, arms and legs. Although hot stone massage does not reverse artery damage, it does contribute to improvements in circulation that helps the body deliver oxygen and blood to surrounding tissues and muscles.
