HOT STONE MASSAGE

Hot Stone Massage is a form of massage therapy used to help you relax, reduce daily stress and tension, and heal soft tissue injuries throughout the body. During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. These stones are typically made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat well. According to research, the stones are heated to a temperature ranging between 130–145°F (approximately 54–63°C) before the massage begins. These stones are massaged across various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, chest, face, palms, along the spine, feet, and toes. Additionally, sometimes cold stones are used after the massage to help soothe tense blood vessels. Muscle Pain Relief Heat has long been used to help alleviate pain, relax tense muscles, and promote increased blood flow to affected areas. Hot stone massage can also reduce muscle spasms, increase flexibility and mobility, and may help lessen inflammation. Depending on your symptoms, alternating between hot and cold stones during the massage can further improve muscle stiffness and tension. Stress Reduction The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) states that massage therapy can significantly reduce stress and anxiety — even more effectively than a simple 15-minute break. Boosting Immunity Hot stone massage may enhance immune system function. A 2010 study showed that hot stone massage had a positive, immediate effect on the body's immune response. Blood samples taken before and after massages indicated a decrease in arginine-vasopressin, a hormone involved in regulating blood pressure and water retention in the body. Improved Sleep Quality Hot stone massage can help adults struggling with insomnia by promoting deep relaxation, especially when massaging the back. It has also been noted that infants with sleep difficulties fall asleep faster after massages. In general, individuals often feel more alert and rejuvenated after waking up from a post-massage rest. Relief from Autoimmune Disease Symptoms Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, muscles, and cells, leading to conditions like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Hot stone massage can help relieve pain associated with fibromyalgia, a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain. A 2002 study reported that fibromyalgia patients who received massages slept longer than those who did not.