There are few things more relaxing than a day spent at the spa, indulging in the deep relaxation of a hot stone massage. While many people are familiar with the idea of what this type of massage entails, very few are aware of the history and origin behind this ancient, therapeutic practice. Hot stone massage is an indulgent, healthy way to release tension in your body and to reduce stress or anxiety.

Understanding the origin of your hot stone massage will make the experience more enjoyable: 

• Where It All Began: Hot stone massage is an ancient practice that can be traced back as far as the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks, Romans, and Ayurveda in India. More recently, Native Americans were known to use this ritual as a means to cleanse the spirit and start anew, while Native Hawaiian tribes used it for pain relief. Each culture recognized the unique ability of a hot stone massage to ease tense muscles, heal soreness, and melt away stress. 
• Why Heat Counts: Some of the first recorded uses of hot stones were said to infuse heat from outside to inside of the body, which has a healing effect on the patient. Whether the practitioner “scraped” the hot rocks along the muscles or simply laid them atop of an aching back, heat played a crucial role in minimizing pain and releasing tension that may have built over time. Afflictions, including severe labor pain, have been remedied by heated rocks for hundreds of years.
• Reinventing Old Techniques: Hot stone massage therapy was reintroduced by Mary Nelson in 1993 and has evolved into full-body, tissue-specific work, as well as hot stone facials, pedicures, and manicures. Hot stones have also been incorporated into other Eastern wellness practices, like Reiki.  

If you’re looking for a unique massage experience to reduce stress and create peace between your mind and body, hot stone massage therapy is the answer. Residents of Edwardsville and Springfield, IL, and Blue Springs, MO, can find the escape they’re looking for at MassageLuXe. With multiple locations and a variety of therapy styles, you’ll find bliss during an hour of therapeutic touch. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for updates.