A hot stone massage is a popular type of massage therapy known for its ability to help you relax and alleviate tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body. During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are strategically placed on specific areas of your body. These stones, typically made of basalt—a volcanic rock that holds heat—are heated to temperatures ranging from 130 to 145 degrees. Many people seek the health benefits of hot stone massage for its soothing effects and therapeutic properties.
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body to enhance the experience of massage therapy. These stones, typically made of basalt—a type of volcanic rock—are known for their ability to retain heat effectively. According to the University of New Hampshire Health Services, the temperature of hot massage stones is heated to between 130 and 145 degrees, contributing to the numerous health benefits of hot stone massage.
Reduces stress and anxiety
It’s the position of the American Massage Therapy Association that “massage therapy can be effective for stress relief.” Research supports their opinion. A 2001 study showed that a ten-minute massage improved cardiovascular responses such as stroke volume. A 1997 study found that 15-minute, onsite chair massages in the workplace significantly reduced stress compared to a 15-minute break without massage.
A 2015 study Trusted Source found that people who underwent abdominal colorectal surgery had less pain, tension, and anxiety after receiving post-operative massage.
Promotes sleep
A 2006 literature review found that massage may be an alternative to sleeping pills in adults with insomnia. The research showed that back massage helped promote relaxation and sleep. A 2001 study indicated that infants with sleep problems who were given a 15-minute massage by their parents went to sleep faster. They were also more alert, active, and positive upon awakening. Massage therapy is thought to help you enjoy more restorative sleep, although it’s not completely understood why.
May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases
Hot stone massage may relieve painful conditions such as fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread, chronic pain. According to a 2002 study, people with fibromyalgia who received a 30-minute massage slept longer, had fewer trigger points, and had decreased levels of substance P (a substance involved in transmitting pain signals) than those who received relaxation therapy. More research is needed, however, before massage therapy becomes a standard fibromyalgia treatment.
A 2013 study Trusted Source found that people with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from a moderate-pressure massage, such as hot stone massage. Participants in the study experienced less pain, greater grip strength, and a greater range of motion after one month of massage therapy.
May help decrease cancer symptoms
A large, three-year study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management examined how massage affected pain, fatigue, stress and anxiety, nausea, and depression in 1,290 people with cancer. The study showed that massage, especially Swedish massage, improved cancer symptoms, even in those with substantial symptoms. Researchers believe the comforting use of human touch played a role.
At Ashanta's Massage and Bodywork Massage Therapy, we believe that everyone deserves to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Our skilled massage therapists are dedicated to providing a customized massage experience that addresses your specific needs. Whether you're managing chronic pain, stress, or simply need to unwind, we have the ideal massage for you. Among our offerings, the health benefits of hot stone massage stand out, alongside other techniques such as aromatherapy. With our personalized approach and attention to detail, you can trust that you will leave feeling refreshed and renewed. Book your massage today!
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