Hand Stone Massages
Hot stone massage is a popular spa treatment that involves the use of warm stones to relax and sooth muscles. It also helps relieve pain, stress and anxiety. It is ideal for people with arthritis, fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions. Besides being relaxing, it helps improve blood circulation. This allows more oxygen to reach the tissues and reduces muscle stiffness. It also aids the body’s natural detoxification process by releasing toxins from the tissues.
A hot stone massage consists of warm, sand-like rocks, such as basalt, and other types of stones that retain heat, like sandstones or marble. They are heated to a temperature of about 127 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. The therapist will place the stones in different positions on the body to ease and soothe the muscle. During the massage, he or she will use long strokes, circular movements, kneading and tapping to relieve tension from the muscles.
The warmth from the stones relaxes the muscles and allows the therapist to apply more pressure without causing discomfort. This makes the hand and stone massage an excellent choice for people with fibromyalgia, arthritis and other chronic pain conditions that can cause soreness. It can also help relieve numbness from nerve damage and boost range of motion.
Can Hand Stone Massages Be Combined With Other Wellness Therapies?
In addition to easing pain, a hand stone massage can also improve sleep for people who have trouble sleeping. Studies have found that the heat from the stones calms the brain and the body, promoting relaxation and sleep. It can also alleviate depression and stress.
A hand and stone massage can be combined with other wellness therapies, such as deep tissue, acupressure, and trigger point therapy to relieve specific areas of the body. These treatments can be used on the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs. It is also possible to add foot reflexology to the hand and stone massage to enhance its benefits.
The hand and stone massage is an excellent option for pregnant women who want to enjoy a relaxed and soothing experience. The heat from the stones relaxes the muscles, helping to alleviate the pain that is usually associated with pregnancy. However, it is important for the therapist to know that the client is pregnant so he or she can make adjustments to the treatment.
Having a good massage while you’re sick can significantly improve your symptoms and make you feel much better. In fact, researchers have found that patients with fibromyalgia and other disorders experienced less pain, improved sleep and decreased levels of substance P, a chemical responsible for transmitting pain signals. The best part is that a massage can be as beneficial to your health as exercise or medication. This is because it reduces pain, relieves stress and boosts the immune system. Whether you’re feeling stressed, in pain or just need a moment to escape from the world, a hand and stone massage can be just what the doctor ordered.