Heated Stone Massage

Everything old is new again. This phrase can be applied to virtually every facet of our lives. Past trends in fashion and music have reappeared. Generations-old recipes have reappeared as today's "comfort foods". Automotive makers have breathed new life into popular hot rod and muscle car models of old. And even the health industry, despite the staggering advances in medical knowledge, has resurrected ancient techniques to provide comfort and relief to those suffering from stress and pain.

Massage with heated stones is a technique that can be traced to the ancient native civilizations. Experts claim that these heated stones, when applied to the body through touch, can pose a number of health-related benefits to the receiver. These stones are considered to be ideal for their soothing properties, because they possess the smallest amount of vibration of any facet on the planet.

Heated stone massage, also known as "La Stone" massage, is widely accepted and appreciated by both healthcare and bodywork industries. Many progressive clinics, spas, fitness centers and other healthcare establishments have incorporated massage with heated stones in their regular massage therapy regime. This "new" technique is performed and enjoyed around the world.

The Long History of Heated Stone Massage

While there is not a great deal of written history about heated stone massage, research suggests that this type of therapy originated from the ancient healing techniques of the Native Americans. Some evidence indicates that the origins can be traced back to Japanese therapeutic traditions, while others believe that therapy was a part of the Eastern Indian philosophy.

Despite the variances in the history of heated stone massage, no one can dispute the one basic fact: massage with heated stones is considered to be one of today's most effective and widely recognized forms of healing therapy.

Many Benefits of Heated Stone Massage

In addition to the overall "feel good" benefits of heated stone massage, this type of therapy may also provide relief for several common health concerns:

* Promotes a deeper relaxation

* Reduces both stress and tension

* Soothes and relieves stiff muscles

* Tight joints become loosened

* Calms the nervous system

* Helps to boost the metabolic rate

* Enhances circulation

* Controls bloating caused by PMS

* Eases chronic neck and back pain

* Frees blocked energies in the body

Performing Heated Stone Massage

When performing heated stone massage, your therapist will use stones in a variety of shapes and sizes. The stones are heated to varying temperatures before you arrive for your massage, usually ranging from 0 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To set the mood, bring your body to a fully relaxed state and prepare your skin, you will be treated to an application of aromatherapy oils before the heated stone massage begins.

While holding a heated stone, the massage therapist will apply traditional Swedish strokes. As the stones cool, they are replaced with new heated ones. Stones on certain parts of the body are left in place, usually along the spine. Heated stones may be placed on your hands or between your toes to enhance the natural flow of energy in your body. The massage therapist may also use cold stones if your particular condition requires it.

There are certain physiological changes that may take place during the heated stone massage procedure. You and your massage therapist may notice fluctuations in your body temperature, breathing and heart rate. These will all drop and rise at certain points during the heated stone massage procedure. These changes are normal, so don't be concerned. The very process of massaging with heated stones is used to indicate these types of changes.

In fact, your therapist may use this information to determine the flow of the blood as well as the exchange of blood and oxygen within your body. Your overall sense of health and wellbeing is the end result.

While you may have heard of this "new" health procedure, massage with heated stones is certainly no fad. This type of therapy has been used to calm, soothe and pamper the body for centuries. It's an ancient treatment that can make you feel like new again.

Article Source: http://www.health-fitness-for-all.com

Writer Selena Rymore loves writing for numerous popular web magazines, on healthy lifestyle and hair product topics.

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