Popularized in spas during the last 12 years, hot stone massage has gained popularity among massage clients.   But stone massage is not a new therapy.  Heated stones have been used for massage in cultures in India, Japan, Egypt and North America for centuries.   Here in the United States, stone massage was reintroduced 19 years ago by a massage therapist in Arizona. Other practitioners followed suit, developing the myriad of styles offered today.

What is hot stone massage?

Hot stone massage is a deeply soothing form of massage that uses smooth stones to impart heat directly to the muscles.  As with all forms of massage, stone massage varies from therapist to therapist.  Typically, a therapist will massage you in a manner similar to a relaxation massage, but with warm stones held in the hand.  Smooth rounded stones, about palm-sized and smaller, are heated in water to about 125 F degrees.  The direct heat increases circulation and relaxes your muscles, preparing them for deeper work.

In addition, some hot stone practitioners incorporate layouts—that is, stones positioned strategically on or under your body during the massage.  Often, stones are placed on either side of your spine, in the palms of the hands or, for small stones, between your toes.   Other practices alternate warm basalt and cool marble stones to problem areas.

Some practitioners combine energy work with hot stone massage.  There are many variations.  Stones may be placed on the body to stimulate chakras and energy meridians.  Some people believe the stones themselves impart energy.  Chakra-balancing may be done using semi-precious stones and crystals.

How do I know if Hot Stone is for me?

If you are not a heat-lover, then hot stone massage is probably not for you. But if saunas, hot tubs and hot tea appeal to you during the Maine winter, you will love the way stone massage warms you to the bone.

Stone massage is done with plenty of oil on unclothed skin.  There is no need to worry about being naked in front of your massage therapist.   As with other forms of massage, your therapist will leave the room while you undress, and will keep you modestly draped with a sheet during your session.  Receive your hot stone massage with a minimum of conversation, but always offer your therapist any helpful information regarding your personal comfort.   Close your eyes and soak up the warmth and comfort, letting sensation chase the busyness from your mind.

Although the massage is called hot stone massage, the stones should be warm, not hot.  Speak up right away if the stones feel too hot.   Stones should be wonderfully warming but never feel as though you may burn.  People have varying tolerance and desire for heat, and your practitioner wants to know what is right for you.  Stones begin losing their heat as soon as they are removed from the stone-warmer.  After a few minutes, the therapist returns the cooled stones to the heater and replaces them with warm ones.

Hot stones as a therapeutic tool.

Rather than offering a full hot stone massage, some therapists incorporate heated stones into their therapeutic massage.  Warm stones combine well with deep tissue massage and trigger point work, directing heat to relax problem areas.