What Is Hot Stone Massage?

A variation on the classic massage therapy, an alternative for of therapy, is called “Hot Stone” therapy where smooth flat stones that are heated are placed on key points of the body. Pressure may also be applied. The use of hot stones as a form of therapy go back a long way to ancient times.

The stones that are used are usually made of basalt, a kind of rock which is rich in iron content and as such retain heat for a long time. River rocks are used as they are smooth.
The stones are heated to a specific temperature and are placed on specific points on the body that are known as energy chakras; especially the back, between the toes or in the palms of the hand. The heat gives warmth to the muscles and relaxes them. Pressure is applied by the therapist, if required, depending on the ailment that the patient is suffering from.