Massage therapy is medically defined as the application of mechanical and manual techniques in manipulating soft tissues and muscle. Massage therapy can be done in various styles and comes from all parts of the world. For instance the Shiatsu massage is an ancient Japanese style of hands-on therapy which utilizes pressure using the thumbs and fingers to specific areas of the body while hot stone therapy may have originated from a Chinese and a Japanese medical tradition of putting heated stones on certain points of the body to balance energy inside it.

The stone therapy is a specialty massage which uses basalt, black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. The heat coming from the rocks has a deeply soothing effect and a very relaxing massage. These rocks are chosen because of its ability to retain heat well. It is placed in specific points of the spine or placed in the palms of the hands or between the toes of the feet to open up meridians of energy throughout the body. Once the energy is free-flowing, the muscles are loosened and tension will be released.

Here are some things to expect from a stone massage:

• The massage therapist will sanitize the stones and heat it in a 120-150 degree water before you even arrive.

• The Swedish massage accompanies the stones but the focus is usually on the therapeutic effect of the rocks. This type of massage is very physical and the masseuse uses the hands, wrists, fingertips, elbow and upper arm. It is not painful but is typically stronger than most types of massage.

• The heat from the rocks transfers to the muscles and allows them to release. This will enable the Swedish massage to be more effective and work deeper into the muscles.

• Stones of different shapes and sizes are used by the therapist.

• This type of massage is more expensive than a typical Swedish massage. It requires more preparation and the length of the session will be longer.

• The heat coming from the stones releases muscle tension quickly than a traditional massage.

• It is important that the massage is done by an experienced professional. Sometimes a less skilled massage therapist will use too much pressure.

• This technique has been around for many years but it was just recently that it has been offered at day spas. There are some spas that may hire less experienced professionals. If you have doubts, it is better to ask the massage therapist how long she has done it and from what school she has learned stone massage.

• This massage focuses on rejuvenating the entire body so do not hesitate to speak up if the stones are too warm or pressure from the Swedish massage is too intense.

A hot stone massage is a means of connecting with the environment which offers a sense of peace and tranquility. It is a deep healing method that relaxes both our mind and body. It enhances our awareness and brings us closer to our inner essence. It is the perfect treatment that is both enjoyable and has a healing quality for both the client and the massage therapist.