Hot Stone Massage
What it is:
Hot Stone Massage is the use of hot stones to provide heat and pain relief to the body. The stones are large smooth basalt (volcanic) stones, which are heated to around 50 degrees centigrade and retain their heat during the massage. The stones are used in three ways. First we use the heat from the stones to warm up the body and to apply the oil, and then the stones are used as massage tools to penetrate deep into tight muscles and work gently around painful joints. Finally the stones are placed on your body so that you can relax and enjoy the heat. Special toe stones are inserted between the toes for added pampering!

An optional part of this treatment is the use of cool marble stones following the application of heat. This provides a stimulating contrast to the hot stones and refreshes the body and mind. There is also the option of a Chakra balance with this treatment. The energy centres of our body can become blocked and cause us to feel unwell. Crystals when placed on specific areas of the body can rebalance our energy system and stimulate the gentle healing process of our body.

The Benefits:
Hot Stone Massage:
· Allows the heat to penetrate up to 3cms into tissues to reduce pain in muscles and joints
· Increases blood flow to muscles improving their function
· Eliminates waste products more quickly and stimulates detoxification
· Reduces tension in the body
· Relaxes the body both physically and mentally
Cold Stone Massage:
· Eases congestion in tissues
· Soothes irritation
· Is anti-inflammatory so can help with injury
· Refreshes and stimulates

What to expect:
Similar to the holistic massage there will be a short consultation regarding relevant health issues and a discussion about areas, which need specific attention. The session will start with a normal massage of light to medium strokes before introducing the heat from the stones onto your body. Once the stones are cool enough to use on your body they will be used to massage deeply into muscle tissue and gently around joints. Cold stones are briefly applied to the area and followed once again by the hot stones. This pattern continues on each part of the body receiving massage.
Once you turn over to receive massage on the front of your body, there is the option of the toe stones and/or the Chakra balance where small crystals are placed on the stomach, chest and face.
Once the massage is over you will have a few minutes to relax, get dressed and drink plenty of water and we will then briefly discuss your treatment and provide any necessary aftercare advice.
As the process of using of stones is quite involved the session needs to be 90 minutes long.