Stone therapy, or hot stone massage, is one of the oldest methods of relaxation and wellness, having a thousand-year history behind its shoulders. In China, hot stones were used to relax tired muscles during the Chang Dynasty (2000-1500 years BC). Hot stone massage has a positive effect on the activity of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, promotes normalization of blood pressure, stimulates the central and autonomic nervous system, relieves muscle fatigue and tension.
Local vasodilation under the influence of hot stones contributes to the removal of excess fluid from muscles and tissues and the rapid withdrawal of end products of metabolism. The special energy of stones eliminates tension and stress, neutralizes negative energy, causes positive changes in the human energy field. For hot stone massage (the temperature of the stones varies from 45 to 55 ° C), volcanic basalt is usually used. It contains elements of the five elements: fire, water, air, metal and earth, and therefore has particularly useful properties. Due to its porous structure, basalt cools down slowly and generously shares its warmth and positive energy with a person. Basalt stones are brought to Russia from the islands of Indonesia, from Peru and Argentina, from the Hawaiian Islands, where active volcanic activity was previously observed. They are collected on the coast, preferring stones of a rounded or oval shape. Basalt is practically not subjected to additional processing, because there is an opinion that, sanded by water and wind, it accumulates part of natural energy. Basalt has the ability to open energy channels and calm the mind, promotes grounding and focusing on the physical plane.
The massage technique is very effective, in which hot and cold stones are used (usually marble is used, cooled to a temperature from 0 to -15 °C) are used alternately. This leads to narrowing of blood vessels and capillaries of the skin, elimination of venous blood stagnation, increased muscle tone. As a result, improved metabolism is achieved, the autonomic nervous system is activated, as well as the endocrine and immune systems.
Various oils are used in stone therapy (sesame, olive, grape seed oil, etc.), often aromatic essential oil is added to the base oil to enhance the desired effect. For example, the aroma of tea tree is well used to relieve inflammation and irritation, orange and grapefruit help with cellulite, lemon, mint and sandalwood scents are used to relieve puffiness of the skin. Like any method of massage, stone therapy has its own contraindications. These are any exacerbations of chronic diseases, in particular, bronchial asthma, acute infectious diseases, pregnancy (hot stones are used only in certain areas).
Regular sessions of stone therapy help the body adapt to stress, relieve chronic fatigue syndrome, strengthen the immune system, heal physically, energetically and spiritually. Since ancient times, the energy of stones has attracted people to themselves, their vibrations are able to restore health, remove energy blocks and balance energy.