Featuring heated, flat, smooth stones, hot stone massage therapy is a popular option for relaxing and rejuvenating the body. If you’re interested in this form of massage therapy, learn more about what it involves and how it can benefit you.

How It Works

Basalt, a volcanic rock that naturally absorbs heat, is often used for hot stone massage. The stones are heated in water between 110 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit before being placed on areas of the body like the back, hands, feet, face, and stomach.

The massage therapist will ask whether the stones are too hot upon application to make adjustments as necessary. They may use the stones to stroke and knead the muscles for a deeper massage. Otherwise, the stones remain on the body for a set period, which allows heat to disperse and relax the muscles.

After the massage, the stones undergo sanitation via water and soap or a spa oxidizing device that destroys bacteria in hot water.

hot stone massage

Why It’s Beneficial

Hot stone massage offers numerous benefits. By relaxing the body and mind, massage therapy helps reduce muscle spasms, increase range of motion, and relieve stress and anxiety. There is also evidence that massage therapy helps those with chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis, as well as people with dementia, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases. Massage is linked to better sleep and reduced cancer symptoms as well.

Talk to your doctor before getting a hot stone massage if you have a bleeding disorder, blood clots, burns, or open wounds. Massage with hot stones is not recommended for pregnant women or those with diabetes or severe osteoporosis.

If you’re ready for a hot stone massage, visit 808 Wellness: Healing Spa & Maui Yoga Studio. Serving Kihei, Wailea-Makena, and South Shore Maui, our massage and yoga studio offers a wellness destination for locals and tourists alike. Call our holistic spa today at (808) 875-4325 to make an appointment, or learn more about our spa services online. Get our spa’s latest health and wellness updates on Facebook.