There’s no denying that stress has become a normal part of our lives. After a long, hectic day, finding ways to unwind and relax is crucial for maintaining your well-being. A healthy and effective way to unwind after a busy day is by getting a massage, especially a hot stone massage.
What happens during a hot stone massage?
Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that is designed to promote relaxation and reduce pain & muscle tension. It involves either static placement or continuous gliding motions with heated stones on the body. The therapy combines the benefits of heat and massage. During a hot stone massage, the practitioner will heat smooth, flat stones and place them on specific body points depending on the areas of muscle tension and the patient's health history. Common placements include:
- Along both sides of the spine
- In the palms
- On the thighs, legs, abdomen, and feet
- Small stones may be placed between the toes or on the forehead
The stones used are typically made of basalt, which is a type of volcanic rock known for its heat retention. The stones are placed in water and heated using an electric heating unit until they reach a specific temperature range.
Hot stone therapy is believed to have originated in China almost 3,000 years ago. Native Americans also used stones warmed by fire to relieve muscle aches. This method of healing has been utilized in various cultures, including the Americas, Africa, Egypt, and India.
How can you benefit from a hot stone massage?
Many people find the heat from the stones very comforting. Hot stone massage is ideal for those who experience muscle tension and pain, insomnia, stress, or often feel cold or have cold feet. It’s also suitable for individuals with muscle tension who prefer a lighter massage. The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, allowing the therapist to work deeper in the muscles. The warmth from the stones enhances circulation and soothes the nervous system.
The application of hot stones is thought to work by stimulating cutaneous nerves and mechanoreceptors, which can modulate pain and may enhance lymphatic and venous return from the area. Heat can cause vasodilation and increased local blood flow due to the release of histamines. Heat can also increase venous flow by compressing tissues, emptying venous beds, lowering venous pressure, and boosting capillary flow. It also enhances lymphatic flow and reduces edema. The relaxing effects of hot stone massage is due to the stimulation of large mechanoreceptors, which can help modulate pain perception. While hot stone massages can be beneficial, it should be avoided in the presence of skin conditions like eczema, rashes, and psoriasis, as the added heat may exacerbate these conditions.
Massage therapists may also hold heated stones while performing Swedish massage techniques, such as long strokes, circular movements, vibration, tapping, and kneading. Sometimes, cold stones are applied to the face or used after the hot stones. Cold stones are incorporated after hot stones to calm any engorged blood vessels and soothe the skin.
In conclusion, hot stone massage offers a unique and effective way to relax and relieve muscle tension. The combination of heat and massage techniques provides a soothing experience that can benefit both your physical and mental well-being. Consider trying a hot stone massage to experience its therapeutic effects firsthand with Dr. David Tam or Michael today at HealthyToDos - Markham Health & Rehab Clinic!
References
McDermott, A. (2018, September 29). 6 benefits of hot stone massage. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/hot-stone-massage
National University Of Health Sciences . (2021, January 22). Hot stone massage. National University Of Health Sciences. https://www.nuhs.edu/patients/health-information/articles/hot-stone-massage/#:~:text=The%20heat%20warms%20and%20relaxes,rebalance%20the%20body%20and%20mind.
Vizniak, N. A. (2021). Bell’s Palsy. In Evidence-Informed Massage Therapy (2nd ed., pp. 446). Professional Health Systems Inc.
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