Hot stones for massage therapy is a perfect add-on to any relaxation massage treatment. The heat, weight of the stones, and depth of pressure the stones can lend to the massage take the heat deep into the muscle, allowing more relaxation.
For all you massage lovers out there, it is without a doubt one of my favorite additions.
Relaxation and relief can be found in different massage stones, both hot a cold treatments can be used to treat a variety of concerns, from stress to chronic pain management.
Read on to discover incredible facts about these remarkable stones and identify the perfect pick for you!
Which Hot Stones Are Best for Hot Stone Massage?
With so many types of massage stones accessible on the web, it can be complicated to know which ones are right for you. What really makes a “quality” stone? The answer is simple: all that matters is finding the perfect stone for your needs! So when searching the internet, consider what type and size of stones best fit into your massage therapy practice – this will help ensure success in providing quality service with superior results.
There are three types of stones often used for hot stone massage:
- Igneous rocks
- Sedimentary rocks
- Metamorphic rocks
What’s the difference between these three?
Volcanoes provide us with the formation of igneous rocks; when magma cools, it becomes basalt and is categorized as an igneous rock. In contrast, sedimentary rocks take a significantly longer time to form since they are formed from small bits that have been hardened by compression into rock masses.
Through the power of extreme underground heat and pressure, igneous or sedimentary rocks undergo a remarkable transformation – they become entirely new types of rock: metamorphic.
Massage therapists often opt for igneous rocks like basalt, however, metamorphic stones are a frequent alternative.
As a result of their high iron content, both igneous and metamorphic rocks are capable of holding heat for extended durations when heated. Out of the two varieties, basalt (igneous rock) usually retains warmth more proficiently than its counterpart and has a much smoother texture.
Some therapists do prefer to use sedimentary rocks such as marine stones, sandstone, or limestone. This is due to their mineral properties, which some therapists believe to confer extra benefits on clients.
Basalt is widely accepted as the optimal stone for hot stone massage therapy, yet I personally like the feel of a heavier Jade stone, the marble stones feel rich and light when working with them.
Best Massage Stones
If you’re ready to make a purchase, these options from Amazon are your best bet. Not only is the quality exceptionally high, but the number and size of stones really set them apart!
Basalt Stone
Step into a new realm of relaxation with 100% NATURAL VOLCANIC ROCKS! Many are unaware of the benefits that Basalt stones can provide for your body. These rocks were collected from the base of volcanos after an eruption and flawlessly hand-selected by experts to maximize their mineral elements’ insulating abilities. With Volcanic Rocks, you will feel calmer and more reinvigorated than ever before!
Give yourself a luxurious beauty treatment with hot stone massage. Not only will it help your body relax and reduce stress, but you’ll also notice an improvement in skin quality – everything from diminishing forehead wrinkles to eliminating dark circles under the eyes!
Harnessing the power of heat transfer theory, we are able to target and break down layers of fat tissue up to five centimeters deep. By increasing thermal energy in areas where oil sebum is present, metabolism spikes while simultaneously melting away excess fat cells. In addition to providing you with a pleasant warmth throughout your body, our hot stone lymphatic drainage will aid in swiftly eliminating toxins from your system so that you can show off a perfect curve without any worries!
Jade Massage Stone
Crafted from natural Green Jade stones, these ergonomically-shaped stones offer unparalleled heat retention and provide a comforting spa experience. Their smooth surfaces allow them to maintain more heat energy, while their varied sizes make them perfect for feet, faces, eyes, backs, arms and feet – no matter the size of your requirement!
Combining massage and heat, these Massage Stones are an perfect way to relax tense muscles, improve blood circulation, and make sure your body gets the rest it deserves. These stones are especially beneficial for those who use computers or cell phones frequently.
Take your massage to the next level with this set of stones. You’ll get 4 large ones measuring 2.76 x 2.76 inches (7×7 cm), 4 medium-sized stones at 2.36 x 3.14 in (6×8 cm) and 8 small pieces that are 1.18 x 1,57 in(3x4cm). Use them all over your body for an amazing relaxing experience!
Marble
Pamper yourself with 14 exquisite pieces of Marble Massage Stones! These massage stones are crafted from naturally occurring marble, making them perfect for any spa or massage therapy session. Most commonly used as cold therapy.
Marble stones are widely known for their use in cold therapy, wherein the chilly temperature of the marble helps to cool down clients while also providing an interesting contrast to hot treatments.
You’ll receive an elegant set of six stones varying in size, including two pieces of each size all tucked inside a large black bag.
With its ergonomic design, the flat surface of these massage stones ensures close contact with your skin. This results in an invigorating massage that gently warms and relaxes your muscles while stimulating blood circulation. Experience deep relaxation as you reap all the benefits these Massage Stones have to offer!
Benefits of Hot Stone Massage Therapy
All massages generally fall under the alternative medicine umbrella. They’re becoming a popular complementary therapy for many conditions. Here are some advantages of getting a hot stone massage:
- Helps relieve muscle tension and pain
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Promotes sleep
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Pain Relief
- May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases
- May help decrease cancer symptoms
- May boost immunity
Who May Benefit From a Hot Stone Massage?
Anyone who is experiencing muscle tension and pain, insomnia, or stress may benefit from a hot stone massage. If you have a chronic condition that causes pain, talk to your doctor to see if a hot stone massage is a good option for you.
What Happens During a Hot Stone Treatment?
A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It’s used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body.
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat. According to the University of New Hampshire Health Services, hot massage stones are heated to between 130 and 145 degrees.
The stones may be placed:
- along your spine
- on your stomach
- on your chest
- on your face
- on your palms
- on your feet and toes
Massage therapists may hold heated stones as they massage your body using Swedish massage techniques such as:
- long strokes
- circular movements
- vibration
- tapping
- kneading
Sometimes, cold stones are also used during a hot stone massage. Cold stones may be used after hot stones to calm any engorged blood vessels and to soothe the skin.
Risks and Warnings
When performed by a trained therapist, a hot stone massage is generally safe. There are some circumstances where it should be avoided. Consult your doctor before getting a massage if you have:
- a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners
- burns on your skin
- open wounds
- a history of blood clots
- had surgery in the last 6 weeks
- a fracture or severe osteoporosis
- a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
- diabetes
If you’re expecting, a prenatal massage can help alleviate stress and make it easier to manage uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms. However, hot stones are not recommended for pregnant women; hence why it is essential to get your doctor’s approval before booking an appointment with a trained prenatal massage therapist.
For your safety, always ensure there is a protective layer between hot massage stones and your skin. Ask your therapist about their stone heating procedure to make sure it’s safe. To prevent any possible burns, only use professionally heated massage stones—never ones that are heated with a microwave, slow cooker, hot plate, or an oven
Wrap Up
Adding a hot stone massage to any relaxation massage is the perfect way to up your massage game and seriously improve your sense of wellbeing.
If you’re looking for deep relaxation and relief from stress, tension, or pain, look no further than the five different types of massages stones available in both hot and cold treatments. So what are you waiting for? Start feeling better today!
