The use of hot stones in combination with massage techniques has been recorded as far back as 3000 BC. The first civilizations to utilize hot stones were the Egyptians, Indians, Chinese, Native Americans and Ancient Polynesians. The healing process incorporates the stimulating effects of touch with heat or thermo-therapy. The benefits derived are manifold and the practice continues today throughout the world. It is considered a branch of alternative therapy, although many practitioners are quick to point its scientific grounding.

It is particularly popular in Hawaii where it is often integrated with Lomi Lomi massage for increased efficacy. The application of heat in conjunction with smooth river or lava stones has proven very advantageous in releasing tension and improving circulation. Although new forms of the therapy have evolved, its primary function has gone unchanged. Its popularity has increased since the 1990s and it continues to attract willing participants in need of stress relief and relaxation.

Historic Uses of Hot Stones
The use of hot stones likely began in India some 5000 years ago. It was a dominant part of the Ayurvedic tradition which involved the use of three essential elements, wind, spirit and air, in healing practices. The stones were derived from river beds where they were warmed and then cooled in preparation for massage therapy. Hot stones were also used in other Asian cultures as a healing art. They considered it an important remedy for digestive ailments and believed it could optimize the efficiency of all internal organs. The stones were placed on the stomach to decrease pain and improve the circulation of blood to other vital organs. They were also used to restore proper energy flow throughout the body and were often combined with Anma, an ancient form of Asian massage. The Japanese, in particular, applied hot stones to mimic the effect of moxibustion, a process which involves the stimulation of acupoints.

Native Americans were also fond of this healing art. The hot stones were applied during rituals that occurred in sweat lodges, a practice which continues today. The stones were also used to massage the body and retain heat. They believed it had the power to restore the body's natural balance and acted as a detoxifying agent. Ceremonial use of these hot stones involved heating each with the four elements, air, earth, fire and water. These were then passed from person to person and rubbed on any areas that ached.

Hot stones have also been used in some parts of Africa including Egypt and also South America where they were incorporated in several distinctly unique healing rituals.

Ancient Hawaiian Hot Stone Therapy
The Ancient Polynesians transmitted several healing practices to their new settlements throughout the Hawaiian archipelago. One of these was the use of hot stones in specific healing arts. The Kahunas were the sole practitioners of this process which involved knowledge of the anatomy and specialized techniques. The heat energy produced from the stones was believed to improve a wide variety of ailments from the minor to the more severe. The practice was combined with Lomi Lomi massage, which considerably improved the results. Heated lava rocks were applied after a session of Lomi Lomi. This was believed to enhance circulation and overall health. In addition, lava rock balls were utilized to exfoliate and smooth the skin. Hot stones were also important in pain management of common women's issues, including menstrual cramps and postpartum maladies.

Modern Day Hot Stone Therapy
Hot stone therapy has become widely popular with the introduction of a new form aptly named "LaStone Therapy". The origin of this evolved version has been credited to Mary Nelson, a massage therapist who suffered for years with injuries to her wrists and shoulders. The discovery came at a most unlikely time. While relaxing in a sauna with her niece, she picked up one of the stones and gave her niece a massage. She enjoyed the feeling and this led to the creation of her patented therapy. This rekindled interest in alternative hot stone massage techniques, which were generally isolated to areas where the practice thrived for centuries.

The technique that Nelson created involved the use of 54 hot stones, 18 frozen stones and 1 stone at r.t.p (room temperature and pressure). Her practices also incorporated the use of the chakras, which are described as distinct areas of the body that emit energy. The experience among the first clients was thrilling and soon LaStone therapy saw an increased demand in the United States. The trend caught on in many parts of Europe and Australia. There are several new methods and techniques being used in spas throughout the world, yet the same relaxing effect can be achieved with any of the modes chosen.

Typical Modernized Hot Stone Massage
Modern versions of hot stone therapy all have one thing in common, that is the application of heated rocks. In general the massage therapist will heat basalt stones of dissimilar shapes and sizes and then place on the client's body. For increased safety, the stones are not typically placed directly on the skin. A towel is first put on the area to protect it from excessive exposure to heat. The placement of the stones is extremely important. They are positioned at different chakras or on achy areas of the body. While these stones penetrate the specific area with heat, the massage therapist will begin rubbing the stones on other parts of the body. The result is instant release of tension as the heat saturates each muscle group. Many practitioners will vouch for its efficacy. Some therapists will also apply cold stones in conjunction with hot stones to enhance the overall effect.

Each session lasts anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. Most clients report feeling deeply relaxed and actually fall asleep in the process. This therapy is often combined with Remedial or Deep Tissue massage. The therapist also derives some benefit including decreased pressure on hands and wrists when using stones to aid the massage process.

From its humble beginnings in India, Asia and Hawaii to its wide-scale use in massage parlors across the globe, hot stone therapy has become a favorite relaxation technique for practitioners and clients. The healing aspect of the stones is still considered important. It is an ideal tool that can be used in stress management and promotes better circulation throughout the body. It can be utilized for its pleasing effects or as an aid in reducing pain associated with several ailments. Its popularity is expected to continue with the increase in demand and availability at most spas in the United States, Europe and Australia.

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