Dude! I’m not talking about getting high. The stoned I’m referring to is the usage of hot stones in massage therapy. No doubt you’ve enjoyed having me use hot stones during your massage, but have you ever wondered why I use them?
They’re Hot! Hot! Hot!
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, hot massage stones are heated in water heated to between 110 and 130 degrees.
Four benefits to a hot stone massage
- Helps relieve muscle tension and pain. Heat is often used to ease muscle tension and pain as it increases blood flow to the affected area. Heat reduces muscle spasms, increases flexibility, and range of motion.
- Reduces stress and anxiety. It’s the position of the American Massage Therapy Association that “massage therapy can be effective for stress relief.” Research supports their opinion.
- May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases. Hot stone massage may relieve painful conditions such as fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Boosts immunity. Massage gives your immune system a boost. According to a 2010 study, a single session of Swedish massage therapy had a positive and acute impact on immunity. Blood samples taken before and after the
massage showed a decrease in a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and water retention.
If you’re experiencing muscle tension and pain, insomnia, or stress, you may benefit from a hot stone massage. If you have a chronic condition that causes pain, talk to your doctor to see if a hot stone massage is a good option for you. Either way, book your next massage today!