How Are the Stones in Hot Stone Therapy Heated?
Hot stone therapy is an ancient technique that massage therapists often offer their clients. It provides a deep sense of relaxation and well-being. Part of the benefit of the therapy comes from the method used to heat the stones.
-
Types
-
Therapists use basalt stones for hot stone therapy treatments because basalt holds heat well and remains warm for a long time. They use different sizes of stones for different areas of the body.
Method
-
The therapist heats water in an electric warmer, then adds the stones and lets them soak in the water. This warms them gradually.
-
Benefits
-
Heating the stones in water provides a moist heat during the massage, which is better for relaxing the muscles than a dry heat.
Warning
-
The therapist should always test the temperature of the stones on his own skin before placing them on his client. They should be comfortably warm, not hot enough to burn.
Considerations
-
If the stones are too hot and there's no time to let them cool, the therapist can place a sheet or thin towel between the stones and the client's skin. The heat will still penetrate to the muscles.
-