As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life. In the world of massages, there are so many to choose from. Through our articles, we have gone over many massages. These include massages such the Thai massage, Swedish massage, and even aromatherapy massages among others.
Well, make room for one more as we talk more about hot stone massages and tell you everything that you should know about it.
As opposed to many of the other massage types we have talked about in the past, the hot stone massage is quite unique due to how it is carried out on a person. It is a deeply relaxing and soothing massage, but not without its own set of discomforts that people need to bear and contend with.
If you are considering getting a hot stone massage, let’s go over several things that you didn’t know but to before doing so first.
What Hot Stone Massage is and How it Differs From Other Massages
Hot stone massages are quite unique due to the materials that it uses on a person during the massage. Perhaps you have heard the phrase, “the hot stuff hurts”, and hot stones fit this perfectly.
For hot stone massages, hot stones play an integral role in the entire process because it helps with applying heat onto a person’s muscles. These hot stones can be heated on their own or on a heating element or fire before being used to give someone a hot stone massage on these muscles.
Although some people may find such treatment uncomfortable, it does help soothe and relax tight and sore muscles while at the same time increasing blood circulation.
In terms of how hot stone massage differs from other massages, the difference is centered on using the hot stones as a main medium and tool for the facilitation of the massage.
You will find though that hot stones are not just placed on the person’s back as part of a traditional massage. Rather, the therapist will use both hands to massage the person and at the same time, use the hot stones to give them a hot stone massage.
This is where it becomes more unique and different from other massages that you would have received in the past.
What You Need to Know About Hot Stone Massages
There are plenty of things about hot stone massages that people do not know about. Here are just a few things you should know about hot stone massages.
Basalt Stones
The hot stones used in hot stone massage are basalt stones. Such stones retain heat for longer periods of time and it is also considered to be one of the best types for hot stone massages since they are smooth, easy to clean, and have a low moisture content so they won’t drip all over the place.
Bone Health
Not only can hot stone massages help improve blood circulation, but it also helps with bone health as well by strengthening their structure and through absorbing calcium from food sources.
The Heat
Hot stone massages are hot. This is because of the hot basalt stones that are used to massage a person. However, there are hot stone massage centers that use heated chairs instead of hot stones for massages since hot stones can be too painful or too hot on some people’s skin.
A Dose of Immunoglobulin A
According to the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine, hot stone massages may help improve the immune system by increasing levels of Immunoglobulin A, which helps fight against bad bacteria in our bodies.
A Mental Health Pick-Me-Up
Since hot stone massages help reduce stress levels, they also have positive impacts on people’s mental health as well. Specifically, hot stone massages help increase self-esteem and they also help with mental fatigue.
Deep History
Hot stone massages go back thousands of years. While hot stones have been used for hot stone massages all over the world, it is believed that hot stones were first used by Native American Indians as far back as 2,000 years ago to help heal people’s bodies both physically and emotionally.
A Relaxing Massage on a Budget
Almost every budget benefits from hot stone massages since they are a form of massage therapy. In fact, hot stone massages can be done at any price range depending on what you want from the session. This includes everything from quiet relaxing sessions that may cost under $100 to those that want hot stone massages as part of a romantic weekend getaway package
With hot stone massage, you may experience feelings of relaxation and peace due to the hot basalt stones that are used to massage your body. Such stones help increase blood circulation levels, improve bone health, strengthen the immune system, and more.
Through the Fire, Relaxation
When it comes to hot stone massages, it is clear to see that there are many reasons why this type of massage should be considered as an option for those who are in need of some relaxation and relief from their everyday lives.
While people who get this massage will need to contend with the heat of the stones, the whole process will inevitably lead to increased relaxation and relief.
With all of the benefits that hot stone massage provide, it is no wonder that this type of massage is becoming more and more popular each and every day. So, what are you waiting for? Consider giving hot stone massages a try! You may be surprised at just how beneficial they can be for your mind, body, and soul.
