by Dee McMath

Hot Stone Therapy is a type of massage using specially heated volcanic lava stones, combined with Swedish-style massage movements, which has healing properties for both skin and muscles.

Hot stone massage is an ancient practice originating thousands of years ago from the Far East. Over the last few years it has been re-discovered and has become very popular, especially in America in the form we see it today. It is already in a few places in Andalucia, mostly in the larger, luxury clinics and hotels with spas, along the Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz. The type of health or beauty spa which offers day, week or two week pamper packages may have this therapy on offer. As it becomes more popular, more salons and clinics will add it to their list of massages and therapies.

Special smooth lava stones are heated to a comfortably warm temperature prior to treatment. This treatment can be given in several different ways, but one way is to being with you being wrapped in a towel and invited to lie down on several warm, smooth stones arranged and possible also covered with a towel, for your comfort. While the heat penetrated your body, you will be given a Swedish style massage, probably with aromatherapy oils. The stones should be hot and relaxing. Hot stones will be used to massage arms legs and back. Often a light head massage is included.

The theory is that the heat from the stones helps to increase your hearty rate and helps to regulated blood flow. It also helps to rid the muscles of toxic waste products, which build up from stress and bad lifestyle habits. Stiff joints benefit from the penetrating heat, making this an excellent choice after exercise or any physical work. Hot stone therapy is also used to help relieve stress, depression, PMT and is also effective for some skin disorders.

Sometimes cold stones are used along with the warm ones, to further stimulate the circulation. The whole treatment is both relaxing and revitalising and is said to clear the body's energy channels to promote wellbeing and good health. One thing most people say after a hot stone therapy session is that they sleep really well the night after treatment and always look forward to going back.

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