Thai hot stone massage is a type of massage that uses hot stones as a heater diffuser to different areas of the body instead of pressing with palms. These stones evenly apply pressure to the muscles, and the heat can well transfer to the inner skin. As a result, they help reduce pain and stiffness, and when the heat transfers into the body, it also stimulates blood circulation.
A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It’s used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body.
During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat. According to the University of New Hampshire Health Services, hot massage stones are heated to between 130 and 145 degrees.
The stones may be placed:
- along your spine
- on your stomach
- on your chest
- on your face
- on your palms
- on your feet and toes