What is a hot-stone massage?

With this treatment, a licensed massage therapist will typically use smooth black basalt rocks or river rocks that have been heated to a uniform temperature in a water bath. Basalt stones are very rich in iron, which makes them particularly great at retaining heat and are even believed to help improve the flow of energy in your body.

The therapist will then either place the hot stones on specific points along the body to create soothing pressure or use them to actually massage muscles with steady pressure.

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Hot-stone massage benefits

In addition to loosening muscles, the heat from the massage stones opens up blood vessels and improves circulation. Improved circulation allows more oxygen to be delivered to the muscles, which helps alleviate aches and pains. Other massage benefits may include:

• Chronic-pain relief

• Reduced stress and anxiety

• Enhanced flexibility