Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that involves the use of smooth, heated stones. The localized heat and weight of the stones warms and relaxes the muscles, allowing the massage therapist to apply deeper pressure to those areas without causing discomfort. Due to the warmth of the stones, the local blood flow improves therefore allowing faster healing and recovery. Stones are heated in hot water in a heater set to keep the water temperature at 60°C. Your therapist will communicate with you regarding the temperature of the stones and can cool the stones in cool water if needed. Basalt stones are used, they are igneous rock that form from hot lava of an erupting volcano. As they cool they will harden. Therapists prefer basalt stones that are flat and smooth, and when heated will remain hot for a long time.
Biljana Bozic, RMT
