

Hot stone massage is an alternative contemporary form of massage applying individual Hot Stones to the body. The stones being heated, flat and smooth are placed on key areas of the body, which can reduce tension and sometimes offer pain relief. The stones when heated can also be used to massage the body by hand; gripping the Hot Stone and rubbing the bodies outer surface using a more traditional style of massaging.
Hot stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that is rich in iron, so they retain heat. Massage oil is applied to the body which allows the hot stones to glide smoothly along the muscles. The stones are immersed in water and heated using the Hot Stone heater method. Once immersed in water the stones are gradually warmed to a hand hot temperature, which are then ready to be applied to the body areas requiring massage. Stones can also be placed at specific points that are thought to be energy centres of the body to rebalance the body and mind. A hot stone is used directly on the reflexes, stimulating, energising and revitalising the corresponding organs, glands and meridian pathways.

The heat from the stones warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired.
• Relaxation
• Improve energy flow
• Open the reflex pathways
• Stimulate the Meridian pathways
• Ease tension
• Balance the body’s systems
• Create a sense of harmony
• Create a sense of well-being
• The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system
• Creates a feeling of balance and harmony
• Gives a deeper and longer lasting sense of relaxation
Many people find the warmth of the hot stones to be comforting and relaxing