Paula Hinton Aromatherapy
Therapies to Help You Relax, Unwind and Feel Like YOU Again
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Hot & Cold Stone Massage (Geothermal Therapy)
Posted on 29 January, 2014 at 10:18 |
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Geothermal Therapy Geothermal therapy, or massage with hot stones and cold
stones, has become a very popular treatment over the last couple of years.
Although often regarded as a luxury spa treatment a stone massage has many
health benefits, from easing tight, weak muscles to improving the circulation and
aiding aching joints. Many people will have experienced a hot stone massage but
flinch when I mention the cold stones. The application of cold stones is short
and can help with overheating during the massage, it can alleviate the sluggish
feeling often experienced after a hot stone massage. When cold stones are used
you feel refreshed and energised, while still retaining the benefits of the
massage. Smooth, flat stones of varying size, are immersed in water
and heated in a special heating device. The hot stones are usually made from
volcanic basalt, a rock rich in iron, giving the stones a high heat
retention. Once heated to around body
temperature the stones are used to glide over the back, shoulders, neck and
face as well as other areas of tension. The heat from the stones, combined with
essential oils, enables the muscles to release very quickly, allowing the body
to reach a state of total relaxation. This comforting therapy helps tight
muscles to relax 4-5 times quicker than in a standard massage, making it
particularly helpful for areas of very tight, painful muscle. The cold stones
are made from white marble favoured for its smooth surface and ability to
retain coolness. The combination of hot and cold stones in one treatment
creates a powerful reaction, being deeply relaxing and usually the switch
between the two types of stone is not felt. Hot stones -
cause blood vessels to expand, increasing blood supply, this increase in
circulation brings fresh blood to the muscles. Lymph function is increased
helping the body rids itself of waste products. The metabolism is increased and
the muscles and tissues relax as they expand. Cold stones -
cause the blood vessels to contract, sending blood and fluid away from the area
and the body’s pain relievers are released, helping to numb pain. The
constricted blood flow helps stop muscle spasms and relaxes the muscles. Cold
stones are especially useful for helping to reduce inflammation and pain.
This therapy is especially useful the areas of
tension and muscle tightness over the upper and lower back and on the face. When
used on the face hot and cold stones can help soothe headaches and the pain
associated with congestion and sinus problems as well as relaxing the facial
muscles to give a clearer, smoother look to the complexion. The use of cool
stones around the eyes helps to decongest the region, reducing dark circ |
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