Stone Therapy
This treatment is performed using a set of basalt stones, which are warmed in water to the required temperature, using a special heater. As in Swedish massage, the client is semi clothed and covered with towels. Massage oil is applied to each part of the body to be massaged in turn and the stones are used to transfer the heat of the water to the muscles. Chilled stones can also be used for different effects
The benefits of working with heated stones:
- Causes vasodilation - a widening of the blood vessels which increases blood flow
- Increases circulation
- Increases metabolism
- Increases lymph function
- Increases range of motion
- Decreases tension
- Relieves bowel spasms
- Increase relaxation response
- Produces a heat reducing effect
- Increases the activity of white blood cells
- Increases the body's defences against infection
The benefits of working with cool stones
- Causes vasoconstriction - a narrowing ofthe blood vessels
- Produces an analgesic effect
- Stimulates the nervous system
- Contracts muscles
- Causes a heat producing effect
- Reduces the production oflJistamine
- Reduces inflammation
- Speeds up digestion
- Soothes Derve endings
- Inhibits the production of necrosin - a natural chemical produced when tissue is injured
The benefits of alternating heated and cooled stones
- Increases microcirculation
- Increases tissue oxygen intake
- Supports efforts to bring down inflammation
- Supports efforts to stop congestion
- Vasoconstriction - then a flush of blood to the area- causing vasodilation. Hot- Cold - Hot- Cold
- Produces prostaglandins (pain killers)
- Reduces congestion
