A Japanese hot stone massage is one of the most relaxing treatments that you can have at a wellness spa. When the stress of the city is getting to you, relax and decompress with a hot stone massage at Aura Wellness Spa. During this type of massage, the therapist places hot stones on various parts of the client’s body while massaging other areas.

Before a Japanese Hot Stone Massage

Before the client walks into the treatment room, the therapist places smooth basalt stones in water that has been heated to around 120°F to 150°F.

During the Massage

Once the client is settled face downwards onto the table, the therapist begins the massage. Starting with a regular massage, the back is oiled. Then, holding a hot stone, the attendant massages the body, using big stones for the large muscles and smaller stones for minor muscles. As each stone cools, it is replaced with a hot one.

The therapist may then leave stones along the client’s spine and on the back. They are not arranged randomly but are put on specific points.

A short while later, the client then turns over and the hot stone massage continues. Stones may be placed on the belly, in the palms of the hands, and between the toes.

Benefits of a New York City Hot Stone Massage

Living in a huge city such as New York can be stressful, and a hot stone massage can do wonders for the body and the mind. Other benefits include:

Relief of pain: Whether the pain is caused by disease such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, from an injury, or anxiety and tension, a hot stone massage may help to ease symptoms.
Improvement of circulation: As the heat from the stones penetrates the client’s body, the blood vessels open. This increases circulation, which means that more oxygen gets to the muscles, helping to alleviate aches and pains.
Promotion of deep muscle relaxation: Once the muscles are relaxed the therapist is able to manipulate the tissues more effectively. Hot stone therapy can also aid in the release of toxins from the muscles.
Reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety: While hot stone therapy will not cure these conditions on its own, it can be part of an integrated process of therapy.

Always check with your doctor before having a hot stone massage, as it is contraindicated during pregnancy as well as for sufferers of high blood pressure and other conditions.

If you’re looking for the best hot stone massage in NYC, contact Aura Wellness Spa at (212) 695-9559 or make an online reservation.