The Warming Benefits of Hot Stone Massage Therapy

Hot stone massage therapy, which is administered via the strategic placement of smooth heated rocks at key points on the body, is a variation of traditional massage used to reduce stiffness in the muscles, ease tension and improve circulation. By placing the heated stones on these specific points - some of which include the hand, toes and back -the muscles are prepared to allow for deeper relaxation.

Your massage therapist will administer a hot rock massage, by rubbing the body with stones to create the ultimate healing and relaxing experience. Because the warm heat from the stones helps to relax the muscles, it allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure. Strategic placement of the rocks during the hot stone massage is important, as they are thought to be the energy centers of the body that returns balance to the mind and body. Deeper muscle penetration and relaxation is one of the attributes that makes the hot stone massage therapy so popular. It is also proven to improve one's circulation and flush out toxins that could be harmful to your body. If you suffer from any of the following medical ailments, hot stone massage therapy could be just what you need:

• Muscle pains and aches;
• Upper and lower back pain;
• Effects of anxiety and stress;
• Symptoms of arthritis;
• Fibromyalgia;
• Insomnia;
• Depression.

So what types of rocks are used in stone massage therapy? The river rocks used in stone massage therapy have been made smooth by the current of the river over time. Made of basalt, they are rich in iron so they retain heat. After being immersed in water, they are placed in a device that heats them to the proper temperature. The hot stone massage technique is very popular, but it is particularly so among anyone who suffers from stress-related symptoms and who are more comfortable with a massage that is administered with a lighter stroke. As mentioned before, during the process of hot stone therapy, the muscles become easier to work with as a result of the warmth being directed to them.

Some people may be turned off by the thought of hot rocks on their body. But there is no need to worry... the stones are always smooth, flat and only about the size of a large egg. The heat is not a concern either, as the hot rocks are warmed under the strictest precautions in a unit that carefully monitors the degree of warmth. And while everyone has their own comfort range, your massage therapist will always hold the stones in his hands before applying them to your body to make sure that they are not too hot.

To begin your hot rock massage session, your therapist will ask that you lie face down on the table so that he/she can place the hot stones on the key points on your back. When the muscles have been sufficiently warmed, the therapist will continue your hot rock massage by removing the rocks and using them to rub your back with just the right amount of pressure needed to provide complete relaxation. Most massage therapists like to incorporate some type of cream, oil or lotion into hot stone massage therapy to allow the stones to run smoothly over your skin. Your massage therapist will then ask that you lie on your back so that he can address the front of your body, by placing the hot stones on the palms of your hands and between your toes.

People should not engage in hot stone massage therapy if they have open wounds or rashes, are currently engaged in chemotherapy or are known to be prone to blood clots. And if you are pregnant, as with any other procedure, you should contact your personal doctor before beginning any massage program.