Hot Stone Therapy Scheveningen - The hague
Hot Stone Therapy
Hot Stone Therapy Hot Stone is a non-standard therapy, the goal of which is to achieve a balance between the energy of the human body and the energy of nature. It combines the energetic impact of heated volcanic stones, manual massage, elements of reflexology, aromatherapy and relaxing music.
It stimulates the flow of positive energy and spiritual harmony. The purpose of the massage is to achieve balance on a physical, mental and energy level.
Basalt volcanic stones of different sizes and flatness are used for the therapy. They are black and smooth, with increased density, rich in iron and magnesium. The stones absorb and retain heat for a longer time - they have a high heat capacity and low thermal conductivity. They are usually heated to a temperature of 120-130 degrees Celsius, and then cooled to 50-60 degrees.
After the procedure, clients feel extremely relaxed and fully energized. Despite the pronounced therapeutic properties of Hot Stone therapy, some conditions should be considered in which it is contraindicated:
- Pregnancy - Diabetes - Cardiovascular diseases - Inflamed and varicose veins - Kidney and liver failure - Osteoporosis - Migraine - Skin eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis - In case of exacerbation of chronic and acute infectious diseases - Oncological diseases - All conditions where the application of stronger heat on the body is not advisable
Hot Stone Massage History
The practice of using hot stones for therapeutic purposes has been around for centuries. It’s thought to have originated thousands of years ago from Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system that takes a natural and holistic approach to health. River stones were heated for healing and massage.
Hot stones were popular throughout ancient Asia. About 4,000 years ago, the Japanese used hot stones to warm the abdomen and improve digestion, while about 2,000 years ago, Chinese medicine used hot stones to improve the function of internal organs.
In North America, indigenous Americans used hot stones in sweat lodges, to heal ailments, and to relieve cramps. Hawaiians have used hot stones to increase circulation.
Hot stones were introduced into modern methods of massage in 1993 by way of a technique called LaStone Therapy. From there, hot stone massages have grown in mainstream popularity.
Hot Stone Massage Benefits
Using hot stones in massage introduces the element of heat, which leads to many benefits.
Relieves muscle pain and tension. Hot stone massage can relieve pain and tension in your muscles due to the combination of massage therapy and heat. Heat is often recommended as a way to treat achy muscles. Applying heat to an area of the body helps increase blood flow to that spot, which improves healing. Using heat on muscle knots before massaging the area can make those knots easier to soothe.
Reduces inflammation.Inflammation happens when your body activates your immune system for tasks like attacking bacteria or healing damaged tissue. Sometimes, your body sends out these cells when it doesn’t need to, which can lead to chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Both heat and massage can help manage inflammation.
Improves flexibility. Stiff joints and muscles limit your flexibility and make it hard to move. Heat and massage help loosen and relax these muscles, which can reduce pain and make it easier to move.
Improves circulation. Both heat and massage improve blood flow and increase circulation. This reduces pain and inflammation and promotes healing.
Reduces stress and anxiety. Both heat and massage help you relax, but massage takes it a step further. Pressure, like from a massage or a good hug, releases endorphins, which relax muscles, help you manage pain, and put you in a better mood.
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Boosts your immune system. Stress can lower your body’s ability to fight disease. The stress relief that massage therapy and heat offer can lower stress, letting your body build up your immune system again.
Improves sleep. Whether it’s the stress relief, the pain relief, or the endorphins, studies have shown that hot stone massage can improve sleep quality.
Who Can Benefit From a Hot Stone Massage?
Physicians believe that hot stone massage can help manage several conditions, including:
Anxiety
Autoimmune diseases (may need special considerations based on the disease)
Chronic headaches
Depression
Digestive problems
Exercise-related injuries
Fatigue
Insomnia
Low back pain
Muscle spasms
Osteoarthritis
Post-surgery pain (massages should not be done within six weeks after surgery unless okayed by a doctor)
Repetitive stress injuries
Sciatica
Sports injuries
Who Should Not Get a Hot Stone Massage?
Some people should avoid hot stone massages or may need extra considerations when getting a massage. Conditions may include:
Cancer
Clotting disorders
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Heart disease
Neuropathy
Osteoporosis
Pregnancy
Recent surgeries
Skin conditions
What to Wear to a Hot Stone Massage
Do you need to wear anything special for a massage? How do you prepare? Luckily, it’s not hard to dress for a massage of any kind. The most important thing is that you dress in clothes that are comfortable and that you can relax in. If you prefer to stay fully clothed during your massage, wear as few layers as possible so your masseuse can work on deep tissues.
If you’re planning to strip down to your underwear, choose something comfortable that isn’t too bulky or ornate. For back massages, if you normally wear a bra, a sports bra may be easier for your massage therapist to work around rather than a standard bra with a hook and eye clasp.
If you wear any jewelry or accessories in the area that you’re having massaged, remove those things if possible.
