Stone therapy is an ancient technique of massage with the use of hot or cold stones. Nowadays, most salons offer massage with hot stones. Mostly, smooth small stones of volcanic origin are used. The belief in their healing properties is based on the theory that volcanic basalts are formed under the influence of four elements: water, fire, earth and wind. They are rich in micro and macro elements, iron, magnesium and minerals. Yet every master-masseur approaches the choice of massage stones individually. So, it can be both river and sea pebbles.
Massage with hot stones in combination with other techniques, performed by a professional masseuse, has a positive impact on the physical and spiritual state of a person - leads to a balance of the physical and emotional "I". Stone therapy improves the metabolic processes of the body, stimulates the immune and nervous system, relieves the chronic fatigue syndrome, has a cleansing and relaxing effect. This type of massage also helps alleviate chronic pain in muscles and joints, headaches and menstrual pain, relieves nervous tension and can even relieve depression and insomnia.
Hot stone massage procedure
Each masseur uses his own technique of stone therapy, but, in general, the procedure can last from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Massage begins with rubbing the body with aromatic oils and general relaxing massaging movements. Then, the stones heated to 40 degrees spread on the main points of influence on the body: along the spine, in the palm of your hand, on your feet, between your toes, etc. Each point corresponds to a stone of a certain size. The heat of the stones can penetrate under the skin by four centimeters, which contributes to a strong effect on the muscles and internal organs of a person. After all the stones are in their places, massage begins directly by them. To create a favorable relaxing environment, masseurs often use aromatic sticks, candles, tranquil music and so on. These techniques help to open chakras and energy flows, cause a sense of peace and joy. The procedure ends with the same as it begins with a general massage. Then the client can be offered tea to bring him back to reality.
Stones for stone therapy
The set for massage with hot stones usually includes 54 basalt black stones (they keep the heat longer) of different sizes and shapes. Each stone has its own purpose and should be located at a certain point in the body. Depending on the purpose of the stone therapy, you can choose stones with a rough surface (they create a peeling effect), or smooth flat stones (for general relaxation).
On average, a set of stones for massage costs about $ 150.
For cold stone therapy, white marble stones (18 pieces) are required. Sometimes, they are used after the hot massage to "awaken" the client.
Stone therapy at home
Stone therapy is a rather serious spa procedure. Not every excellent masseur owns it in perfection. In the hands of a layman, the effects of such a massage can be detrimental to the condition of the client's body. Therefore, only the person who has undergone training in stone therapies knows how to properly massage stones with benefit. But if you are so eager to try the healing properties of the stones yourself, there are alternative methods of stone therapy at home:
- Gently carry small hot stones from forehead to cheeks. This will improve blood circulation and give your skin a healthy glow, while rejuvenating it. Cold stones have a toning effect. Contraindication: close-lying vessels.
- Before going to bed roll amber round stones in the palms, pre-lubricated them with a pleasant oil for you (for example, essential oil of lavender). This procedure calms and relieves stress.
- In the morning for hardening, you can apply cold stones to the feet for a couple of seconds.
- You can massage the buttocks and thighs with two warm stones, which acts as an anti-cellulite agent.
Nevertheless, it is necessary to inquire about general massage rules, before doing any of the above procedures yourself.
Contraindications in hot stone massage:
- pregnancy;
- postoperative period;
- infectious skin diseases, rash;
- sunburn, recent burns;
- Cardiovascular diseases (consultation of the doctor is necessary);
- inflammation of the internal organs;
- acute infections;
- some neurological and mental illnesses.