STONE THERAPY

When stones are heated to their core, they can radiate warmth for hours (depending on the size of the stone).  During a LaStone Experience using the techniques of the Original Hot Stone Massage, you are gently cradled and nursed by constant warmth.  Stone Energy, or “stone placement”, provides you with the sensation of being nurtured and protected.  You feel the safety of these stone walls as you lie upon supporting rows of heated stones and have more heated stones rest on your torso, affecting each major Chakra point.  This particular alignment sedates the central nervous system and allows your body to relax in a fashion it doesn’t receive very often.  Karyn Chabot, creator of Sacred Stone Therapy, writes “the heat of the stones softens tension and melts worries away”. 

Specialized draping techniques allow for long flowing strokes from the head to the feet without interruption.  This truly completes the massage sensation and reconnects all parts of the body.  The heat and calming, connecting strokes transform that relaxation into a blissful state.  When the heat and steady, calming nature of the stones is added – you truly begin to unwind and your mind will wander in that space usually found between being awake and falling asleep.  You can temporarily escape to a place where there are no computers or cell phones or deadlines or people demanding your time.  You can escape reality for awhile in a safe, nurturing, and healing environment. 

Try a LaStone Experience whenever you are feeling rushed or frazzled.  It will help you reenergize and refocus your body, mind and spirit.

Hot Stone Therapy or Hot Stone Massage is a form of massage using heated stones.  The main intention of massaging with hot stones is to warm muscles quicker and allow deeper work with less effort. 

Hot Stone Therapy has its origins in almost every culture.  Throughout history, doctors to medicine men have recognized the benefit of heat and its effects on tight muscles.  Stones have been used all around the world as an effective tool for carrying heat.  Most Hot Stone treatments are influenced from two main sources: Native American and/or Japanese.  Native American cultures have recorded using heated stones for many different therapeutic effects.  One of the largest Hot Stone Massage practices is LaStone, which was founded by Mary Hannigan and was created in the American Southwest.  It is a unique blend of Native American uses with Swedish Massage.  Since that treatment was first introduced in 1993 it has spawned numerous versions and alternatives.  Many Hot Stone treatments incorporate Reiki or other energy work influences too. 

Hot Stone Therapy can be customized like any other form of Massage Therapy to be relaxing or stimulating; lighter touch or deep muscle tension release.  Hot Stone treatments can be received by anyone who gets any other type of massage.  Obvious precautions are noted for those with any condition where heat could make their condition worse.