Understanding Hot Stone Massage
- Akhtar
- Dec 8, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 15
Hot stone Massage has been practised for thousands of years. It is thought to have originated through Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system that takes a natural, holistic approach to health.
The Japanese used hot stones to improve their abdomen and digestion, while the Chinese used them to enhance the function of internal organs. North Americans used hot rocks in sweat lodges to heal ailments and relieve cramps, and the Hawaiians utilised them to increase circulation.

What is a hot stone Massage?
Hot stones, heated basalt stones, are volcanic rocks high in iron that retain heat. They provide heat therapy to the muscles, reducing tension and pain.
The therapist will apply the hot stone Massage similarly to the Swedish Massage and in stationary positions, depending on the muscles and tissues being worked on. Compared to ten times, the hot stone Massage results in a much deeper outcome.
How is hot stone Massage done?
Hot Stone Massage uses the traditional Swedish Massage style to prepare your muscles. The therapist then places the warm stones on key acupressure or trigger points on the client's body. The stones warm and relax tension areas of the body, allowing deeper pressure to be applied during the Massage.
The therapist will Massage the neck, back, arms, and legs with and without stones using Massage oil and a combination of strokes and techniques.
You should always tell your therapist if the stones are too warm or the pressure is too intense.
The traditional belief is that hot stones result in more profound outcomes and tenfold more extended relaxation than conventional Massage.
Who can benefit from hot stone Massage?
Hot stone Massage has various benefits, and in the 21st century, it is still used as a remedy for pain and mental stress. The stones provide an immunity boost and mental relaxation, resulting in body, mind, and soul recovery.
Hot stone Massage relieves stressors such as anxiety and depression. Whilst Massage alone may not conquer the symptoms of anxiety and depression, regular Massage has been shown to help in many cases and other conditions, such as:
Anxiety
Autoimmune diseases
Chronic headaches
Depression
Digestive problems
Exercise-related injuries
Fatigue
Fibromyalgia
Insomnia
Lymphedema
Low back pain
Muscle spasms
Multiple sclerosis
Osteoarthritis
Post-surgery pain
Repetitive stress injuries
Sciatica
Sports injuries
Preparation for hot stone Massage
Do not eat a heavy meal before the session. Shower before you come, and wait at least four hours after the treatment to shower.
Summary
A hot stone Massage may be helpful. Studies have shown that it reduces stress and anxiety, promotes relaxation, and eases pain and muscle tension.
However, this treatment is not an option for everyone. If in doubt, the therapist or a medical professional should be consulted.
Akhtar (SAC. Dip), Lead Clinical Sports Therapist