Many cultures have made use of stones to bring about healing and promote balance in the body. Native American women would lay warmed stones on their belly during menses and pilgrims would put a hot stone at the end of their bed to warm the feet. Cowboys placed their bedding on warmed stones by the campfire, and the fasting Japanese priest wears a sash in which he puts three stones to help slow the digestive process.

How does it work?
Hot stone therapy practitioners use Basalt stones which are aged, volcanic rocks that are eroded for many years by rivers and oceans. This exotic treatment involves the placement of heated rocks onto the various pressure points on the body as well as the application of oil onto the skin. The heat that emanates from the rocks has an impact on circulation and provides dramatic stress reducing results. Many proclaim to go into a deep meditative state early in a session.

The benefits of Hot Stone Therapy
The warmth from the stones relaxes and soothes all the muscles and gently melts away the knots and tension from the body leaving the client rested and stress free. Hot stone therapy also relieves chronic pain, detoxifies the body and eases neck and back pain.

What to expect during a consultation
During the initial consultation, the practitioner takes down a detailed medical history. Whilst covered, the client lies on a massage bed in a comfortable position. The stones, which have been warmed in water, are placed at various points on the body and the practitioner performs a full body massage with aromatic oils to encourage deep relaxation and calm the soul.

Penetrating heat radiates deep into muscles providing relaxation while addressing mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. A treatment lasts for about and hour to an hour and a half.

Have you had hot stone therapy? Share your experience with us in the comment box below.