What are the Techniques of a Hot Stone Massage?
Basalt stone is commonly employed in hot stone massage due to its heat retentive properties. The stones used for this type of massage are smooth and rounded for easy flow over the body.
Small Toe Stones
Very small stones are warmed and placed between the toes to relax the fine muscles there while the massage therapist works elsewhere on the body.
Larger Placement Stones
Larger, flat stones are placed on, or under, specific parts of the body to induce relaxation of muscle tissue, usually the shoulders and along the spine while a massage client lies on his back.
Palm Size Working Stones
Palm-sized stones are warmed to a hotter temperature than toe or placement stones. These working stones are used in circular or long, gliding motions to improve circulation and ease muscle tension.
Larger Size Working Stones
Larger heated stones are used on big muscles such as the gluteus muscles of the buttocks or the hamstrings on the back of the thighs. Rotating these larger stones in a circular motion while keeping them in place provides a deeper pressure to release tension.
Warning
Hot stone massage is not generally recommended for women experiencing hot flashes, over areas of inflammation, at certain points in pregnancy, heart problems and other medical conditions not listed. Discuss any concerns with a massage therapist or other health care practitioner.
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