Beginning Treatment
Massage therapy is a means to manipulate the skin in order to achieve a desired result, such as relaxation, stress relief, easing of muscle tension or for other complementary medical purposes. While many different types of massages--such as Swedish, sports, deep tissue or trigger point massage--exist, an emerging massage therapy known as hot stone massage has increased in popularity in the United States since its introduction in the early 1990s. Hot stone massage builds upon the principles of Swedish massage, which uses long and kneading strokes to alleviate stress, encourage relaxation and relieve muscle tension. However, hot stone massage incorporates hot stones positioned on specific points of the back region in order to stimulate the tissues to an even deeper level.
A hot stone massage begins with a person laying on her stomach on a massage table. This table may be heated for added comfort. Then, a therapist will use massage oil and begin to rub the back and buttocks area in order to stimulate and prepare the skin for the hot stones.
Applying the Stones
Stones used in a hot stone massage are usually polished basalt stones, which are known for their ability to retain heat. While in nature these stones are light gray in appearance, they are heated and covered with oil, making the stones turn black. The stones are heated to 130 degrees Fahrenheit and a therapist will take the stones and rub them on the back. The stones' heat and soft edges help to penetrate deeply into the tissues.
Concluding the Massage
A common image of a hot stone massage is that of stones in a line running down the spine. After the massage therapist uses the stones to knead the muscles, the stones are then left on the back in order for their remaining heat to radiate across the body and offer a soothing conclusion to the hot stone massage experience. The stones are then removed and a therapist may offer you a towel to remove any excess massage oil. Following a hot stone massage, you should feel relaxed and your muscles will feel comfortably loose. It is a good idea to drink plenty of water following a hot stone massage as the lymphatic system has been stimulated and may therefore require more water in order to properly drain.
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