Holistic massage and similar practices involving hot stones or objects of different temperatures have dated back to ancient civilisations as a form of healing and therapy. Ancient cultures dating back 200 years from China, Native America & Hawaii have practiced similar methods using heated stones and their technique provided physical ease, increased blood flow and improved internal organ function. Such traditional practices have evolved and influenced the application of modern stone massage practices.

The re-emergence of such stone massage techniques was seen in 1993 by Mary Nelson with the development of a form of massage utilising hot and cold stones referred to as “LaStone Therapy”. This form of massage quickly rose to popularity becoming a multi-million dollar industry and has a strong focus on spiritual healing centred around chakras and energy movement. These modern forms of stone massage combine techniques utilised in Swedish holistic massage and deep tissue massage. 

Volcanic stones, typically basalt are placed in hot water typically at a temperature ranging between 40-60 degrees Celsius (100-140 degrees Fahrenheit) to reach a suitable temperature. In order to maintain adequate external skin hydration massage oils are applied to the client’s skin as with a normal massage.

Benefits….

• Stimulating blood flow in the circulatory system

• Reducing inflammation and spasms

• Physically sensitive individuals as it allows for a deeper tissue massage

• Helps relieve muscle tension and pain

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Promotes sleep

• May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases

• May help decrease cancer symptoms

• May boost immunity

EVIDENCE…..

A large, three-year study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management examined how massage affected pain, fatigue, stress and anxiety, nausea, and depression in 1,290 people with cancer. The study showed massage, especially Swedish massage, improved cancer symptoms, even in those with substantial symptoms. Researchers believe the comforting use of human touch played a role.

Massage may give your immune system a boost. According to a 2010 study, a single session of Swedish massage therapy had a positive and acute impact on immunity. Blood samples taken before and after the massage showed a decrease in arginine-vasopressin, a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and water retention.

If you are experiencing muscle tension, pain, insomnia, or stress then you may benefit from a hot stone massage. If you have a chronic condition or illness that causes pain, then please talk to your doctor to see if a hot stone massage is appropriate for you.

Volcanic Hot stone massage with Fiona-Jane incorporates holistic massage whilst using the hot stones directly on the skin at correct temperatures or with coverings in place. The client is constantly asked if the temperature is appropriate and a hand test on the client is conducted first for safety. The entire treatment is 75 mins and hot stones and massage techniques are used on ailing parts of the body including abdominal region, feet and legs. This is a very nourishing treatment and highly beneficial; especially in winter and periods of cold weather.

75 mins - £60