Hot Stones Massage

Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones pleased on key points of the body. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release. The heat of the stones helps muscles release more quickly than in traditional massage. If you have inflammation or muscle injury, cold stones are sometimes used.

The use of hot stones for healing dates back to ancient times, but it wasn't until Arizona massage therapist Mary Nelson introduced her hot stone massage technique, called LaStone Therapy, that the use of hot stones for massage caught on.

The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system. Some massage therapists place stones on points that are thought to be energy centers of the body to rebalance the body and mind.