A Brief History of Hot Stone Massage

March 25, 2019

What is a hot stone massage? A hot stone massage is an ancient and effective practice of relieving and relaxing tense sore muscles, and it is done today by placing heated smooth stones on various parts of the body during a massage session.

Relaxing sore muscles can be accomplished either by leaving heated stones on specific areas of the body, or used by hand during massage. If you are feeling stressed, and you have aching muscles, then next time you for to a spa, try a hot stone massage to relax, it is an amazing feeling.

Historical Background of Hot Stone Massage

The first place where hot stones were recorded used for treating the body, as a holistic way to improve health, is in India. The Hindus used this healing technique over 4,000 years ago, and they called it Ayurveda – part of a whole body healing based on a belief that balancing the mind, spirit, and body can result in health and wellness. While the technique was often used to treat specific health problems, the main goal of the treatment is to promote total health.

In ancient China, healers used special heated shaped stones to treat diseases and to improve digestion called Bian. The process included burning incense while placing the stones on a patient’s abdomen. And, the Japanese would wear heated stones on their stomach to help warm their abdomen to aid in digestion.

In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the Kahunas (shamans), in Hawaii, they had the tradition of wrapping hot lava rocks in leafs, before applying it to the body to relieve muscle spasms and as a way to relax tense muscles.

In North America, even the Native Americans discovered the benefits of using heated stones in their sweat lodges, as a means of relaxing the whole body. Although hot stones were never traditionally applied to the body, the Native Americans were still aware of the benefits heat has on the body, in regard to treating tense muscles.

Much similar to the ancient use of heated rocks, hot stone treatments today are very effective at increasing blood circulation, and relieving tense and sore muscles. Although, hot stone massage treatments vary in the application of the heated rocks – placed on specific areas of the body or used with oil to allow for a smooth massage across the skin – the benefits of increased circulation and release of muscle stress is definitely beneficial for overall health.

For more information about hot stone massage treatment, please feel free to call us here at My Beauty First, we can answer any question or concerns you may have about our latest beauty treatments.

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