Hot stone massage is not an ordinary relaxation treatment. It has a long-standing tradition and holds an important place in the history of natural medicine. It is one of the methods of a holistic approach to human health. Thanks to this, it allows for truly deep relaxation that affects the entire body. We explain what hot stone massage is, why it is worth using this treatment, and how to prepare for it.
Massages using hot stones have been used since ancient times and originate from the medicine of the Far East and ancient Hindu Ayurveda. Importantly, both systems are characterized by a holistic approach to human health. According to their assumptions, our physical ailments and diseases always have a psychological and emotional basis. Practitioners of Chinese medicine and Ayurveda have been using natural therapies, including massages, for centuries, which not only allowed for deep relaxation but also promoted body healing. Of course, this does not mean that hot stone massage will cure any disease. However, the incredible relaxation that is its effect has a far-reaching impact on our well-being and recovery.
To explain what hot stone massage looks like, we need to briefly reach back to ancient medical practices. Both Buddhism and Hinduism believe that there are chakras in our bodies, which are, simply put, energy points. They are important for maintaining balance and health of the body and become disturbed when we are exposed to stress, exhaustion, or start to fall ill. Placing heated stones on the appropriate points on the body – where the chakras are supposed to be – is therefore one of the methods of restoring harmony.
Regardless of whether Ayurveda or Chinese medicine is familiar to us, we can benefit from the relaxing power of hot stone massage. It involves the action of thermal stimuli that directly affect the lymphatic system, circulatory system, muscles, and skin.
Regarding technical information about what hot stone massage involves, basalt stones are used. These are dark gray, almost black, flat stones of volcanic origin. They are heated to a temperature of about 60 degrees Celsius. This temperature is not high enough to cause unpleasant sensations or burns, but it is sufficient to create a pleasant feeling of relaxation.
We also do not need to worry that the temperature will cause shock. Our body will first be properly prepared. The masseur will use oil and skillful movements to warm up the skin. Only afterwards will the stones be placed on the skin, which, due to the slip, will move easily. Finally, they will be arranged in the appropriate points. This type of treatment usually lasts from 60 to 90 minutes.
First of all, we cannot go for a massage if there is an active inflammatory state in our body or if we suffer from an infectious disease. Contraindications also include some cancers, pregnancy, thrombosis, and heart diseases. A consultation will be conducted before the treatment to exclude such cases.
If nothing stands in the way, no special preparations are required. It is enough to take a shower and prepare for a pleasant treatment. Both before and after the massage, it is worth drinking plenty of water to support its effects. As with any massage that stimulates lymph flow, we may feel a greater need to urinate after the treatment. This is a normal and proper sign that helps cleanse the body.
If we are going to a treatment at the hotel where we are staying, we can go down to the hotel SPA in a bathrobe. On-site, we will receive a towel and special protective underwear, but we can also use our own. However, remember that it will be stained with oil.
If we are using another wellness salon, we should choose comfortable, loose clothing that does not restrict movement. In the salon, just like in the hotel, we will receive a towel and underwear.
Now that we know what hot stone massage looks like, let's answer the question of who can benefit from it. Primarily, it is recommended for people struggling with chronic stress and exhaustion, accustomed to high physical or mental effort daily. If you experience tension and anxiety, regular massage will alleviate these ailments. The treatment of sleep disorders, obesity, inflammatory conditions in the body, constipation, autoimmune diseases, and rheumatic diseases can also be supported by hot stone massage.
This treatment allows muscles to relax, which supports regeneration after intense physical activity, in cases of swelling or chronic pain caused by practicing sports. The massage stimulates circulation and lymph flow, which in turn helps reduce fat tissue and cellulite – provided the treatment is used regularly.
