Massage with Heated Stones

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Monday, October 29th, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed

by Selena Rymore

Everything old is new again. This phrase can be applied to virtually every facet of our lives. Past trends in fashion and music have reappeared. Generations-old recipes have reappeared as today’s “comfort foods”. Automotive makers have breathed new life into popular hot rod and muscle car models of old. And even the health industry, despite the staggering advances in medical knowledge, has resurrected ancient techniques to provide comfort and relief to those suffering from stress and pain.

Heated stone massage is one technique that is traced to the ancient native civilizations. According to experts, heated stones can be applied to the body to bring a number of health-related benefits to the receiver. Certain stones possess the smallest amount of vibration of any facet on the planet, are considered to be ideal for their soothing properties.

Also known as “La Stone” massage, the use of heated stones is widely accepted and appreciated by both the health care and bodywork industries. There are many progressive spas, clinics, fitness centers and healthcare establishments that offer heated stone massage as part of their regular massage therapy regime. It’s a “new” technique that’s performed and enjoyed around the world.

The Long History of Heated Stone Massage

While there is not a great deal of written history about heated stone massage, research suggests that this type of therapy originated from the ancient healing techniques of the Native Americans. Some evidence indicates that the origins can be traced back to Japanese therapeutic traditions, while others believe that therapy was a part of the Eastern Indian philosophy.

Despite the variances in the history of heated stone massage, no one can dispute the one basic fact: massage with heated stones is considered to be one of today’s most effective and widely recognized forms of healing therapy.

Benefits of Massage with Heated Stones

In addition to the overall “feel good” benefits of heated stone massage, this type of therapy may also provide relief for several common health concerns:

* Promotes a deeper relaxation

* Reduces both stress and tension

* Soothes and relieves stiff muscles

* Loosens tight joints

* Helps to calm the nervous system

* Boosts the metabolic rate

* Enhanced circulation

* Relieves bloating caused by PMS

* Eases chronic neck and back pain

* Helps to free the body’s blocked energies

Massage Procedure

People performing heated stone massage use stones of all shapes and sizes. Before you arrive for your massage treatment, these stones will be heated to varying temperatures ranging from 0 to about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To prepare your skin and body, you will be treated to an application of aromatherapy oils. This full-body application also helps to bring you to a relaxed state.

Your massage therapist will apply traditional Swedish strokes while holding a heated stone. As each stone cools, it is replaced with a fresh heated stone. Some stones will be left in place at certain points on your body, usually along the spine. Stones may also be placed on your hands or between your toes to enhance the body’s natural energy flow. Your therapist may also use cold stones, depending upon your personal condition and requirements.

During the heated stone massage procedure, you and your therapist may notice certain physiological changes taking place, including heart rate, body temperature and breathing rate. There will be rises and drops in your breathing and heart rates, and your body temperature will increase and decrease. Don’t be concerned; this type of massage with heated stones is used to indicate such changes.

Your therapist may actually use this information to determine the flow of your blood, and the exchange of blood and oxygen in your body. In the end, you’ll experience an overall sense of health and well being.

Even if you’ve only just heard of this “new” health procedure, heated stone massage is certainly no fad. It’s a highly-respected form of therapy that’s been used to calm, soothe and pamper the body for centuries. Massage with heated stones is an ancient treatment that can make you feel like new again.

About the Author:

Columnist Selena Rymore contributes articles to a variety of popular web sites, on healthy living and health product issues. Click here to get your own unique version of this article.

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