Hot Stone MassageHot stone massage is a form of body work that involves the application of heated stones (thermotherapy) to the body within the context of a therapeutic massage. Round, smooth stones are heated to a luxurious warmth, oiled and used in the palms of the hands to massage the body. Heat penetrates deeply, prompting profound relaxation, increased detoxification, and relief of long-standing muscular tension, stress and fatigue.
OriginThe use of applied heat to alter the temperature of the body for healing is a technique of long-standing benefit. The roots of this healing therapy can be sourced back to many ancient cultures including the native americans. Though the history of using heated stones as an adjunct to body work reaches back centuries, this type of therapy has recently become popular again.In 1993, Mary Nelson-Hannigan of Tucson, Arizona, formalized the use of heated stones to massage the body and open energy channels, facilitating self-healing and body-mind awareness. She named this modality La Stone therapy. Since this formalization of the use of heated stones within the context of Therapeutic Massage, the use of this type of therapy has become widespread.
BenefitsHot stone massage is deeply detoxifying and profoundly relaxing. By combining massage with hot stones, the circulatory system is both stimulated and relaxed, a sensation known as 'vascular gymnastics.' This stimulation promotes the release of toxins from the muscles, assisting the body in self-healing.In addition, tense muscles are also softened and eased by the deeply penetrating heat of the stones. Pain and muscle spasms are banished and a feeling of peacefulness and spiritual well-being takes hold. The combined effect prompts a state of enhanced relaxation that washes away stress and sets the stage for re-energizing and rejuvenating the body, mind and spirit.
TreatmentThe area in which the session is offered is arranged to promote a feeling of relaxation and peace. It is normally quiet with only the addition of soft music. The recipient can focus on themselves, going deep within, and take a break from daily stress and tension.The stones are heated to approximately 130°f or 34°c. Prior to the beginning of the session, two rows of hot, flat stones are placed on the treatment table in alignment with both sides of the spine and then covered with a soft towel. The session begins by lying back onto these warm stones. Then hot stones are placed over the heart, on the abdomen and under the neck. With heat penetrating from above and beneath the body, the massage begins.
Legs and feet, arms and hands are worked gently with massage oil. Then the application of hot, smooth stones held in the palms of the therapist's hands are used to apply additional pressure and heat. Thin warm stones are placed between each toe to radiate heat after the feet have been addressed. Once each limb has been thoroughly massaged and warmed to the bone, the therapist moves on to work with the neck, shoulders and facial muscles. To end the face up portion of the massage, pleasantly warm stones scented with essential oil are placed on the flat surfaces of the face.
Stones are then removed from between the toes, over the heart, abdomen, beneath the neck and spine. The person receiving then turns face down on the massage table. The entire back, neck and shoulders are gently worked with massage oil. Then hot stones are used to massage these areas, melting away stress and tension, increasing joint flexibility and softening dry, damaged skin. Once complete, a hot stone is placed over the base of the spine, radiating heat into this area. Warm stones are cupped in the palms to close this phase of the massage while the therapist goes on to work with legs and feet to finish the treatment.
What To ExpectFalling asleep or entering a deep meditative state of mind is a common response to receiving this kind of healing session. This can be an indicator of a number of different factors. Most of us do not get enough rest, and the act of lying down for even short periods of time can prompt a state of deep relaxation. Add to that the penetrating warmth of the hot stones, the relaxation created by the massage, and the stage is set for the body to go into a restorative mode. Sleeping or meditating through a treatment is absolutely natural and ok.Once the massage is complete, the person receiving is invited to take a few minutes to absorb and integrate the work before beginning to sit up. It is common to experience a deep sense of peace and relaxation following a treatment. At least an hour of free time is recommended following the appointment to allow for full receipt of the benefits and a gradual reentry into the world. Eating a healthy meal, taking a leisurely walk, or sitting quietly are activities which often serve as a good transition to resuming whatever is planned for the rest of the day.
Professional ProfileHallie has been practicing hot stone massage since 2001 and teaching classes in this modality to licensed massage therapists since 2007. She is Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and licensed in Connecticut and New York State. She is an instructor for Finger Lakes School of Massage in both Ithaca and Mt. Kisco, NY and an approved continuing education credit provider for the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage. She offers individual appointments, lectures in hot stone massage as well as classes to licensed professionals in Connecticut, New York State, and surrounding areas upon request. The curriculum is portable and can be tailor-made for massage schools or organizations of licensed healthcare professionals wanting to introduce the benefits of this healing modality to students and staff.Appointments and TrainingSchedule an Appointment for Hot Stone Massage. To inquire about hot stone massage classes, please see the 'Take A Class' aspect of this website accessible in the navigation bar along the top of each page, or contact Hallie to check on dates and times for classes.
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