Hot Stone Massage
What is Hot Stone Massage?
Hot stone massage is a natural therapy, in which warm, smooth basalt stones are placed on key points on the body. Basalt is a black volcanic rock with a high iron content, enabling it to retain heat for a long period of time. The stones are placed into a heater. Once the stones are heated to an appropriate temperature, one is placed at a specific point on the body, whilst others are used to work and massage the muscles. Whilst it is known as hot stone massage, some cold stones are also used though these can be omitted if required.
Aa variety of techniques and strokes both with the hands and stones to manipulate the muscle tissue. As the stones begin to cool, the therapist will replace them with warmed stones to ensure a constant supply of heat is applied to the muscles. The warmth of the stones causes the muscle tissue to loosen up and relax, enabling the massage therapist to penetrate much deeper into the muscle tissue than with a standard massage.
This enables a much deeper relaxation of the muscles. As the heat penetrates deeper into the body tissue, the blood vessels dilate resulting in improved blood flow and circulation. Side effects of poor circulation include fatigue and an accumulation of fluid and lactic acid inside the muscles. In combination with the application of the warm stones, cold stones will intermittently be applied to the muscles. The cold stones soothe inflammation and the alternating temperatures pump the lymphatic system and flush the muscles.
Recent scientific reviews have found that hot stones massage is beneficial in the treatment and management of MS, arthritis, fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, circulatory problems, insomnia and depression. The use of hot stones massage can also be beneficial in the process of weight loss and detoxification, as the heat from the hot volcanic stones sinks up to an inch and a half into the tissues boosting the metabolism. The hot stones can relieve chronic pain, reduce stress and promote a deep sense of relaxation.
Hot stones massages are not appropriate if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease, are pregnant or have sunburn. It is recommended to avoid consuming a heavy meal or alcohol in the hours running up to your massage. Let the therapist know if the stones are too warm, or if the pressure feels too intense. It is absolutely fine to let the therapist know if you are not comfortable with the use of the stones, or if you don’t like how they feel. The massage can be continued in the normal manner with hands etc. Our appointments range from 30, 45, 60 and even 75 minutes.
prices: Back 30 mins £28
Back & Leg 45 mins £35
Full Body 1 hour £42
Full Body & Face 1 hour 15 mins £48
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