Hot Stone massage

Ahh, hot stone massage. Ever tried one?

Read on to find out about the benefits and the bliss… by Tori Hevern | Spa Therapist

Now, is the best time to enjoy a hot stone massage. As the Winter months get colder here in Canberra, there becomes more and more need to get the blood circulating around the body. I cannot think of a more luxurious way of doing just this than treating you body to a hot stone massage.

The process of a hot stone massage is beautifully simplistic. Therapists use the same techniques as they would usually use though out a relaxation massage. Movements will flow through long strokes over the body to circular motions to kneading – just as they would in a regular massage but with the addition of heated stones.  The hot stones used are flat and beautifully smooth. They are usually made up of a type of volcanic rock called basalt. This is known for its ability to hold heat. It is the perfect way to heat up the muscle quickly and without applying excessive pressure.

History and benefits of Hot Stone massage

The heat radiating from the hot stones is one of the most gentle ways to promote relaxation and well being. The stones also help to reduce inflammation and tension in muscles. This assists with making it more comfortable for joints to move and decreasing muscle spasms. There are also examples in certain cultures in which women attempted to gain strength through stones by clutching them during labour. Whist Spanish folk healers called curanderas used heated stones to relieve period pain and cold stones to slow bleeding after child birth.

While the heated stones are penetrating through the deeper layers of tissue they are also expanding the blood vessels. The benefits include an increase in energy flow throughout the body, helps to detox, supports digestion and even improves your immune system.

A hot stone massage for many is not just a one off experience. Rather a ritual that helps to relieve stress and pain from their body’s helping to free up some mental space for all the wonderful things in life. As Maya Angelou was once quoted, “I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one.”

Tori’s recommendation:

Enjoy the Jindii EcoSpa, Booroomba Stone massage for either 50 minutes or 80 minutes. Guaranteed to inspire feelings of calm and deep relaxation.