A hot stone massage is an ancient technique that has been around for over 2,000 years. It can help those who suffer from aching bones and joints as well as the everyday person who just wants to relax after a long day. While it may seem like this type of massage is only beneficial, there are some drawbacks to consider before making your decision on whether or not you want one. In this blog post, we will talk about the benefits and drawbacks of receiving a hot stone massage so that you can make an informed decision when deciding if this treatment is right for you!
History of the hot stone massage
The origins of the hot stone massage are not clear. One common theory is that this type of treatment originated in China, where a traditional healer would attach heated stones to an individual’s back or neck with their bare hands during treatments. The heat from these rocks was believed to help soothe physical ailments and improve blood flow throughout the body by increasing circulation.
There is evidence that the practise dates back to at least 100 BC, where a Roman physician would use hot stones for therapeutic purposes when treating patients with painful arthritis symptoms and injuries from falls or other accidents. The treatment was believed to help alleviate pain and swelling in the affected area by improving blood circulation through gentle heat therapy
What are the hot stones?
The hot stones used in a hot stone massage comes in two different forms. The first is called lava stones, which are heated to the perfect temperature for therapeutic purposes and then used on the body with towels or sheets separating them from your skin. The second type of hot stones comes as small pebbles that can be heated up individually by using boiling water in a pot placed on the stove.
Benefits of a Hot stone massage
The benefits of a hot stone massage are that the heat from the stones is soothing and can help to soothe muscles, relax tense areas in your body, release endorphins which promote relaxation. A lot of people also say it feels like being wrapped up tightly but without feeling suffocated or constricted to your movements. Hot stone massages have a long history in various cultures, they can also be beneficial for people with chronic pain or inflammation. One of the drawbacks is that if you are sensitive to heat or cold it might not work as well for your situation.