Hot stone massage is an alternative therapy used primarily for relaxation and to ease tension in the muscles. It is also an excellent remedy for damaged soft tissues throughout your body. In this article we look to provide you with the information needed to choose the best hot stone massage kit.
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat stones are heated and placed on specific areas of your body. Therefore choosing a high quality stone is essential. Most often these are volcanic rocks. Basalt is often used due to it’s excellent heat retention properties.
The temperature of the stones is important for this therapy. It is recommended that the rocks are heated to between 130 and 145 degrees.
The stones are then situated to the prone body and placed:
- Along the spine
- On the stomach
- On the chest
- On the face
- On the palms
- On the feet and tops of the toes
A therapist may also hold one or more of the heated stones as you receive the massage. This provides a combination therapy using the heat of the stones alongside traditional massage techniques.
Some techniques include:
- Long strokes
- Circular rotational movements
- Vibration pressures
- Tapping and Sounding
- Kneading and energy pressing
Even though the therapy is Hot Stone Massage the therapist will often also place cold stones. Cold stones are usually applied after the hot stones as they soothe and calm blood vessels and any red skin patches.
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How To Choose The Best Hot Stone Massage Kit.
The best kit for your needs really depends on what you are looking for from the massage.
- Are you a therapist who needs a good all round kit to use with clients?
- Are you a novice wishing to learn massage techniques?
- Are you an athlete who wants to relieve muscle tension and pain?
- Do you suffer insomnia and want to aide gaining a restful natural sleep?
- Do you suffer from an auto-immune condition and seek pain relief?
Your personal situation will help determine the best hot stone massage kit for your needs.
Therapeutic Benefits Of Hot Stone Massage:
Helps to relieve muscle tension and pain.
Heat is a well known treatment for muscle tension and pain. The heat increases blood flow to the area affected. Application of heat also reduces muscle spasms and increases your flexibility and range of motion.
By using in combination with cold stones you reap the therapeutic rewards, as cold stone therapy helps relieve inflammation.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction.
A 2001 study1Cady, S. H., & Jones, G. E. (1997). Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 84, 157-158. showed that a ten-minute massage improved cardiovascular responses and increased levels and states of relaxation. Likewise a 1997 study2Cady, S. H., & Jones, G. E. (1997). Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 84, 157-158. found that 15-minute, onsite chair massages in the workplace significantly reduced stress compared to a 15-minute break without massage.
A 2015 study found that patients receiving abdominal colorectal surgery had less pain, tension, and anxiety after receiving post-operative massage.
Promotion Of Natural Healthy Sleep.
A 2006 study found that massage may be a natural and effective alternative to sleeping pills for adults suffering from insomnia.
It also showed that back massage helped promote natural relaxation and allowed insomnia sufferers to gain more sleep.
A 2001 research study showed that when parents gave a 15-minute massage to infants with sleep problems they actually went to sleep much faster. They babies were also more alert and positive upon waking.
Relieve symptoms of autoimmune illnesses.
Hot stone massage may be useful for relieving painful conditions such as fibromyalgia.
According to a 2002 study3Fibromyalgia Pain and Substance P Decrease and Sleep Improves After Massage Therapy, Fibromyalgia sufferers who received a 30 minute massage slept for longer, they had fewer trigger points, and their levels of substance P had decreased remarkably.
People with rheumatoid arthritis also benefit from moderate pressure hot stone massage.
They experienced less pain, gained a greater grip strength and developed a greater range of motion after just one month of hot stone massage therapy.
So Now To it…
The Best Hot Stone Massage Kit Reviews!
Number 1 – SereneLife PyleUsa Hot Stones Massage Kit with Warmer.
Number 2 – Master Massage Deluxe 70 Piece Basalt Hot Stone Rock Set With Bamboo Box.
Number 3 – Amethyst Lake Hot Stones Massage Set With Warmer Pot.
Best Hot Stone Massage Kit FAQ
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What Is The Best Hot Stone For Massage?
Basalt is the ideal material for hot stone massage. The composition of this volcanic rock, with high silica and iron content, allows it to retain heat longer than most other stones. Using a different type of stone may require you to frequently switch stones in and out of the warmer, as they may cool off too quickly for effective treatment.
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What Is The Ideal Hotness Of Stone For Hot Stone Massage?
Between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be warmed in water until they reach the temperature range of 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You can add them back into the heater should they cool.
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Which Massage Is Better Swedish Or Hot Stone?
The choice between Swedish massage and Hot Stone Massage ultimately depends on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a gentle, relaxing massage, Swedish massage may be best for you. If you are looking for a massage that can help relieve muscle tension with the added benefit of heat therapy, then hot stone massage will be more suitable.
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What Are The Side Effects Of Hot Stone Massage?
Hot stone massage kits are generally safe, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Burns can occur if the stones are too hot or left on the skin for too long. Skin irritation or sensitivity to oils may occur. There is a small chance of soreness if a high level of pressure is applied by the massager.
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What Are The Benefits Of Hot Stone Massage?
The heat from the stones helps relax muscles, allowing the therapist to access deeper muscle layers. The heat also dilates blood vessels, promoting better circulation. The combination of heat and massage helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation. Hot stone massage can relieve muscle tension and pain, bringing a sense of calm and relaxation.
References
- 1Cady, S. H., & Jones, G. E. (1997). Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 84, 157-158.
- 2Cady, S. H., & Jones, G. E. (1997). Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 84, 157-158.
- 3Fibromyalgia Pain and Substance P Decrease and Sleep Improves After Massage Therapy