Hot Stones - are they just a feel good winter treat?
Hot Stone Massage, is believed to have originated amongst Native American Indians hundreds of years ago.
Apart from hot stone therapy being incredibly pleasurable, it actually has some amazing Medicinal Benefits when combined with Remedial Massage.
Heat applied to the muscle prior to a remedial massage relaxes muscle tissue allowing the therapist to work deeper and create long lasting change, quicker. During the colder months we can often seize up, muscles become cold and tight and it takes longer to warm them up to get into deep tissue work. The heat also improves joint flexibility, by relaxing muscle tissue and allowing freer movement.
Furthermore, Hot Stones increase circulation. As the heat from the stones penetrate into the muscle tissue, blood vessels dilate. This is important as their skin then becomes more permeable allowing for increased oxygen, and nutrient supply through the blood. As more oxygen reaches the soft tissue, muscle functionality and health improves.
And last but not least (and extremely obvious) Hot Stone Massage has been shown to help improve sleep and decrease stress, by creating a deep sense of calm and relaxation.
It is important to note that its super important to drink water before and after a session. There are also contraindications for hot stone therapy (such as diabetes, any sort of nerve condition with loss of sensation, heart diseases, epilepsy, autoimmune dysfunctions etc) so make sure to always give your therapists a detailed medical history.
Top 10 Benefits of Hot Stone Massage
Relieve muscle spasm, pain, tension & improve the muscle relaxation.
Releases toxins & improves skin appearance
Significantly reduce stress & anxiety
Improves blood circulation and flow of energy
Helps to promote better sleeps
Helps to reduce & manage stress
Helps to create a sense of comfort and warmth
Helps in increasing joint flexibility
-Helena Zavesky