SOCIAL LEADER: If the thought of your massage therapist working deeper in your muscles sounds like perfection, click below to read more about Hot Stone Massage.
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Incorporating natural props into a massage treatment can be just the right thing to take a great massage up to an outstanding treatment.
One of the most commonly used tools in massage therapy is the use of hot stones. The use of warm stones on the body can help to increase relaxation and decrease the tension in muscles.
Smooth rocks, such as Himalayan Salt Stones, are specifically used in this approach. They are used because of their ability to retain heat and be warmed to over 110 degrees.
The stones are generally placed on the feet and palms, chest, stomach, and spine. From there, the massage therapist may move these rocks around the body in long stroke and circular movements, rolling, or kneading. The use of the stones can allow a therapist to work deeper in the muscles with a lighter approach as the muscles relax more efficiently.
In addition to assisting in helping muscles release tension and pain, the stones can also help to decrease stress and anxiety when used with the massage. As the muscles relax, there will be a decrease in muscle spasms and tension while creating an increase in the ease of joint movement. All of this will add to the benefit of promoting better sleep.
Although the sound of putting “hot stones” on your body may make you think it might be painful, it is not. In fact, if the stones feel too warm or are uncomfortable, be sure to tell your therapist right away so that they can make proper adjustments.
While a hot stone massage can be useful for numerous people, there are some that should avoid it – those that are ill, have heart disease, or diabetes. Always be sure to discuss your medical history with your massage therapist to be sure the best and safest modalities are being used for your treatment.
If you would like to get a deeper relaxation from hot stones in your next massage session, we would love to tell you more!
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