Hot Stone
Hot stone massage was invented in 1993 by Mary Hannigan, a native of Tucson, Arizona. She has trademarked her particular style and calls it LaStone Therapy, but most spas offer their own versions.
Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.
Before you arrive, the massage therapist sanitizes the stones and heats them in 120 and 150 degree water. The therapist uses traditional strokes of Swedish massage while holding a heated stone. As the stone cools, the therapist replaces it with another. The therapist might also leave heated stones in specific points along your spine, or in the palms of your hand, or even between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body.
If you have inflammation or muscle injury, cold stones are sometimes used.
A hot stone massage is more expensive than a basic Swedish massage because it requires more preparation and usually runs longer. A typical hot stone massage is $125, but the price can go higher.
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