Hot stone massage has been there for centuries, popularly used amongst the South American tribes and in Asia to bring about soothing relief and inner healing. The modern type of hot stone massage was developed my Mary Nelson of Arizona into what is known as the LaStone Massage. This has become the common form of hot stone therapy, utilized by most spas. However, over time a number of spas have formulated their versions of the hot stone massage and this has given rise to several types of the therapy. In addition to the hot stone therapy practiced in Asia, it could get really confusing when deciding what type of hot stone massage to settle on.

Basically, there are two types of hot stone massage. It is possible to hear of more than two because of the different variations introduced by spas and by regions. For instance, you might hear of the Hawaiian Kahuna hot stone massage or the Pohaku massage, which is basically just a variation of the traditional hot stone massage that uses basalt stones. There are also regional differences in hot stone therapy such as the Tibetan Himalayan hot stone massage which utilizes 48 stones and fragrant oils to soothe the nerves. This style of hot stone massage is usually a 90 minute process. The Japanese stone massage makes use of different massaging techniques and focuses on the use of pressure and acupuncture in relieving stress.

Here, only the two broad types of hot stone massage practiced by a majority of spas would be discussed. The first is the traditional hot stone therapy which is widely practices amongst massage specialist. It is marked by the use of basalt stones (a volcanic type of stone preferred for its ability to take in and retain heat). Basalt stones are rich in iron and work to enhance relaxation and healing. In applying the traditional hot stone therapy, the massage specialist usually makes use of the Swedish massage in the process. When the client has been massaged, the pre heated basalt stones would be used to further massage the body before they are finally placed on pressure points on the body.

The effect of this massage is to warm up the body thereby improving blood circulation and to enhance the flow of oxygen in the body. Also, it aids the release of endorphins which are useful in the relieving of pains in the body.

The second popular type of massage is the LaStone therapy which was developed and trade marked by Mary Nelson. The LaStone therapy makes use of both hot and cold stones, following a particular specified process from the beginning to the end of the massage. It is a therapy that is conducted only by specially trained massage professionals and the materials can only be sold by authorized personnel.

LaStone therapy is used to soothe sore and tired muscles and has been known to ease acute pain. This form of stone massage uses basalt and marble stones to form the hot and cool contrast and works as a detoxifier.
Whatever form of hot stone massage you choose to go with, the healing and soothing properties of the stone cannot be denied and they give a whole new meaning to a massage experience.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone, the leading hot stone massage supplies provider. They carry products such as hot stone therapy products, as well as many other accessories for hot and cold stone therapy.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hot stone massage,spa,stone therapy,massage stones,therapeutic massage