What is hot stone massage?

To alleviate work-related stress and tension, many people opt for hot stone massages as a means of relaxation. This isn’t just a beauty treatment; it also offers numerous health benefits. 

In addition to Thai massage, aromatherapy massage, and others, hot stone massage is highly favored among women as a therapeutic method. Hot stone massage provides many positive effects on health such as reducing stress, fatigue, improving sleep quality, and promoting healthier skin…

1. What is hot stone massage?

As the name suggests, hot stone massage is a therapeutic massage technique that uses heated stones to help you relax and alleviate muscle tension. According to standards, the stones used in this massage method are typically maintained at temperatures between 130 – 145 degrees Celsius.

The stones used in hot stone massage are carefully selected for their smooth and flat surfaces, often basalt stones known for their excellent heat retention properties from volcanic origins.

During the massage, these stones are placed on various parts of the body depending on the treatment or purpose. Typically, these areas include:

• Facial region
• Chest area
• Palms and fingers, including the palm and fingers
• Abdominal region
• Along the spine
• Calves, feet, and toes.
• In some cases, cold stones may also be used alongside hot stones to soothe blood vessels after exposure to high temperatures from the hot stones.

2. What are the benefits of hot stone massage? 8 surprising benefits

Compiled from various studies, hot stone massage offers numerous health benefits. Explore these 8 surprising benefits that hot stone massage provides for the body:

2.1. Pain and muscle tension relief

The most immediate and visible benefit is pain and muscle tension relief. The heat from the stones promotes faster blood circulation, effectively improving muscle tension and reducing pain. The flexible combination of hot and cold stones speeds up this process, enhancing effectiveness.

2.2. Stress relief

Relaxing and enjoying a hot stone massage can also significantly alleviate stress. Whether you’re under pressure from work or life in general, this massage therapy could be suitable for you.

According to a 1977 study, a 15-minute massage reduces stress significantly compared to simply resting for 15 minutes without massage.

2.3. Alleviates cancer symptoms

Pain caused by cancer can be persistent, even with supportive medications. Hot stone massage helps you relax, feel more comfortable, and stabilize emotionally, easing the pain.

With proper technique, anxiety decreases, and a refreshed spirit helps in recovery and treatment of cancer.

According to a major three-year study tracking 1,290 cancer patients, massage significantly affected pain, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and tension. Massage therapy contributed to clear improvement in the aforementioned cancer symptoms.

2.4. Boosting Immune Function

An astonishing benefit of hot stone massage is its enhancement of your body’s immune system. According to a study on massage therapy in Sweden in the 2010s, hot stone massage positively impacts the body’s immune response.

Blood samples taken before and after the massage process showed a significant decrease in arginine-vasopressin levels—a hormone that regulates blood pressure and water retention.

A 2013 study also indicated that individuals with low-grade joint inflammation felt less pain, improved grip strength, and experienced easier mobility after a month of hot stone massage therapy.

2.5. Alleviating Autoimmune Symptoms

Furthermore, hot stone massage helps alleviate symptoms of autoimmune diseases, notably including joint inflammation, fibromyalgia, and lupus erythematosus. Regular hot stone massage can improve bone and joint pain.

A 2002 study found that individuals with joint pain tended to sleep longer, had fewer trigger points, and reduced substance P levels (a pain signaling chemical) after a 30-minute massage session compared to those who only relaxed without any therapeutic intervention.

2.6. Enhancing Sleep Quality

Hot stone massage helps clear blocked meridians and acupuncture points, thereby improving insomnia. With better, deeper sleep, you’ll avoid health issues like dizziness and fatigue, and instead feel refreshed and energized for studying and work.

2.7. Promoting Healthy, Beautiful Skin

Improving skin health and beauty is a major benefit desired by many who use hot stone massage. The high temperature of the stones promotes increased sweating, eliminating toxins through sweat glands. Therefore, regular facial hot stone massages contribute to brighter, smoother skin.

2.8. Improving Blood Circulation

Hot stone massage also dilates blood vessels under the skin, enhancing blood circulation and reducing pressure on the heart.

3. Effective Home Hot Stone Massage Techniques

Currently, you can perform hot stone massage at home for effective results. To achieve the best outcomes, follow these detailed instructions:

Step 1 – Heating the stones: You can heat stones using a specialized steamer or simply by boiling them in water for about 5-10 minutes. Test the warmth of the stones on your wrist; if too hot, allow them to cool slightly.

Step 2 – Placing stones on acupuncture points: Once the stones reach the right temperature, place them on important acupuncture points on the face, back, arms, etc. The heat will penetrate deep into the skin, providing numerous health benefits.

Step 3 – Combining with massage: After placing stones in one area for a period, move them to other areas while gently massaging to enhance effectiveness.

4. Important Considerations for Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is generally safe and non-harmful. However, it’s important to pay attention to the following issues:

• Consult a doctor if you have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, open wounds, recent surgery within 6 weeks, fractures or osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders, or severe burns.
• Avoid hot stone massage during pregnancy unless approved by a doctor or specialist.
• Use a thin towel between the stones and the skin to prevent burns.
• Refer to detailed instructions before attempting a home hot stone massage.
• Create a cozy environment with soft lighting, gentle music to enhance relaxation.