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Tamara Howard ACMT MFHT

Advanced Clinical, Sports and Soft Tissue Massage Therapist

What is Hot Stone Therapy?

Hot Stones Therapy is an advanced therapeutic technique that uses the application of Thermotherapy - consisting of both heat and cold to treat the musculoskeletal and soft tissues of the body.

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This type of therapeutic therapy has been used for thousands of years to aid healing, provide deep relaxation and balance.  Verbal and written history confirms the use of heated stones more than 3,000 years ago as a way of healing.

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In order to function at our best, our bodies need to maintain an internal natural balance. Stress is a part of everyday living and a helpful natural reaction in emergency situations.  However, being in a heightened state of stress (in the "fight or flight" response) for prolonged periods of time can have a very negative effect on our health.  Clinically, it is how anxiety, nervousness and tension are caused due to the balance of certain chemicals in the body being disrupted.

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The deep relaxation that can be achieved during a Hot Stones Massage treatment allows our parasympathetic nervous system (the one that is predominant only in non-stressful situations when our bodies are at rest, and keeps normal body functions running) to be effective.

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Massage is performed incorporating the use of both heated volcanic basalt stones and cold marble stones. Different techniques are used throughout the treatment such as:

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Effluerage: Long gliding strokes

Pettrissage: Lifting & kneading

Tapotement: Tapping/percussion

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Advanced techniques also used include trigger point work, stripping, deep and cross fibre frictions and piezoelectric effect.
 

Aside from any health benefits, a Hot Stones Massage can be a truly lovely, relaxing, indulgent experience or treat. 

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What are the benefits?

Hot Stones Therapy has many positive effects on the body both physically and psychologically.  Just some of the benefits:

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  • Induces deep relaxation

  • Helps to relieve muscle tension and pain 

  • Helps to relieve back pain

  • Helps to reduce stress and anxiety

  • Promotes sleep

  • May help boost immunity

  • Helps to promote healing

  • May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases

  • Helps the body's natural healing process

  • Stimulates the lymphatic system

  • Assists in detoxification

  • Improved removal of waste products

  • Can be incorporated alongside other therapies

  • Helps to balance the systems of the body

  • Is an invigorating and stimulating treatment

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