Heated Stone Massage
August 2nd, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed
Even in these modern times, everything old is new again. Music and fashion trends of the past have reappeared. Our grandparents’ recipes are enjoyed as modern “comfort foods”. The automotive industry is breathing new life into cult favorites like the VW Beetle, the Mini and others. Even healthcare has taken pages from history, despite staggering advances in medical knowledge. Ancient techniques have been resurrected to provide relief to those suffering with pain and stress.
Heated stone massage is one technique that is traced to the ancient native civilizations. According to experts, heated stones can be applied to the body to bring a number of health-related benefits to the receiver. Certain stones possess the smallest amount of vibration of any facet on the planet, are considered to be ideal for their soothing properties.
Heated stone massage is also known as “La Stone” massage. It’s a practice widely accepted and appreciated by both the healthcare and bodywork industries. Popular and progressive clinics, spas, fitness centers and other healthcare establishments are now incorporating heated stone massage into their regular massage therapy regime. People around the world are performing and reaping the benefits of this “new” technique.
History of Heated Stone Massage
Despite the lack of written history about heated stone massage, researchers have suggested that this type of therapy originated from the ancient healing techniques of the Native Americans. Other evidence shows that the origins can be traced back through traditional Japanese therapies, while others believe that it has developed from the Eastern Indian philosophy.
Despite the variances in the roots of performing massage with heated stones, one undisputed fact remains; heated stone massage is considered to be one of the most effective and widely recognized forms of healing therapy.
The Benefits of Heated Stone Massage
Aside from the overall “feel good” benefits of heated stone massage, this type of therapy can also provide relief for many health concerns:
* Promotes deeper relaxation
* A reduction of stress and tension
* Soothes and relieves stiff muscles
* Tight joints become loosened
* Calms the nervous system
* Boosts the rate of metabolism
* Enhanced circulation
* Eases bloating caused by PMS
* Relieves chronic neck and back pain
* Frees blocked energies in the body
Massage Procedure
When performing heated stone massage, your therapist will use stones in a variety of shapes and sizes. The stones are heated to varying temperatures before you arrive for your massage, usually ranging from 0 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To set the mood, bring your body to a fully relaxed state and prepare your skin, you will be treated to an application of aromatherapy oils before the heated stone massage begins.
Your massage therapist will apply traditional Swedish strokes while holding a heated stone. As each stone cools, it is replaced with a fresh heated stone. Some stones will be left in place at certain points on your body, usually along the spine. Stones may also be placed on your hands or between your toes to enhance the body’s natural energy flow. Your therapist may also use cold stones, depending upon your personal condition and requirements.
There are certain physiological changes that may take place during the heated stone massage procedure. You and your massage therapist may notice fluctuations in your body temperature, breathing and heart rate. These will all drop and rise at certain points during the heated stone massage procedure. These changes are normal, so don’t be concerned. The very process of massaging with heated stones is used to indicate these types of changes.
Your therapist may actually use this information to determine the flow of your blood, and the exchange of blood and oxygen in your body. In the end, you’ll experience an overall sense of health and well being.
Even if you’ve only just heard of this “new” health procedure, heated stone massage is certainly no fad. It’s a highly-respected form of therapy that’s been used to calm, soothe and pamper the body for centuries. Massage with heated stones is an ancient treatment that can make you feel like new again.
About the Author:
Essayist Selena Rymore contributes articles to several popular Internet magazines, on health discovery and beauty product subjects. This and other unique content ‘massage’ articles are available with free reprint rights.
