Hot Stone Reflexology

W

Reflexology is a holistic non-invasive treatment by which the feet are massaged and manipulated, stimulating 1000’s of nerve endings. It has been practiced around the world and throughout history, with archeological evidence dating back to Egypt (2330 BCE), China (2704 BCE) and Japan (690 CE).  The principle of reflexology is based on the idea that certain reflex areas on the feet have an association, mirroring that of the body’s internal organs, glands and muscles, as well as, the skeletal structure. By applying pressure to certain parts of the feet, the theory is that reflexology helps to stimulate the body’s own healing process, ‘re-tuning’, bringing back balance allowing the person to achieve physical and emotional well-being.

 

What is Hot Stone Massage?

Hot Stone massage has also been around for centuries; ancient civilizations believed that hot stones cleansed the body, relaxed the heart, grounding the soul and soothing the mind, originating in India and China. As the name implies, hot stone massage involves the use of water treated stones for doing the massage. The stones used are Basalt; the most common type of igneous rock used in this type of therapy; the stone itself has been formed from the molten lava cooled following a volcanic eruption; these stones have then been polished enabling a smooth massage.

 

What is Hot Stone Reflexology?

Hot Stone massage in conjunction with Reflexology technique is an extremely relaxing and deeply rejuvenating full body treatment.  Furthermore, Hot Stone Reflexology is different from a traditional reflexology treatment because continual contact with the client cannot be maintained because the stones being used need to be continually swapped with new stones from the heater, therefore, achieving continual temperature.

Using the heat from the stones allows the musculature of the body to relax allowing the therapist to work deeper layers of the lower leg and feet; the heat allows the skin to absorb moisture and oils. Whilst working the feet during treatment, Hot stone wraps are placed around the body to induce complete relaxation (without the need to undress).  The therapist will work on the Reflex points of the feet along the meridians to restore, balance and rejuvenate the whole body.  Cool stones may also be used alternatively or if there are any muscle injuries or inflammation.

What happens during treatment?

A Hot Stone Reflexology treatment with Tania will take up 45 minutes; at the initial visit a detailed Consultation Form will be required to be completed which will include essential information such as medical history. A treatment plan will then be tailor made to the client’s personal needs. You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and lay on a special reclining chair. Your feet will then be examined enabling the therapist to identify any contraindications such as bruising, swelling, corns, verrucaes, athletes foot which may prevent pressure being applied to that area. Please note that in some cases, treatment may not be suitable for that individual – If in doubt please contact Tania Chew directly on 07753 751864 for a telephone consultation prior to booking an appointment. In addition, skin texture, nail condition (fungal), the general feet condition will be taken into consideration and an Aftercare sheet will also be tailor made and will be provided at the end of the treatment
At the start of the treatment a warm-up massage will be given by Tania; this will be performed by using hot stones which will be massaged in strokes and gliding movements along the length of the lower leg and feet.  This relaxes and soothes, preparing you for the rest of the treatment.  During treatment a firm and precise massage to the feet will be given by fingertip and in conjunction with hot stone therapy application to the soles and uppers of your feet using massage lotion/oil.

Sometimes people may report tiredness, May experience tingling in the body, change in sleep pattern, coldness, heat, increased energy, nausea or tearful; these symptoms indicate that the therapy is working and is part of the healing process but is transitory. Please NOTE that you may feel very tired after treatment and so it is suggested that you do not undertake any physical exertions after treatment.

It is important that you give feedback to the reflexologist as this will help to tailor make a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.

Benefits of thermotherapy (heat) therapy

• Relaxation of the muscles
• Helps to reduce stress
• Helps to release toxins and also reduces the pain
• Improves circulation throughout the body; thus promoting overall health

In the view of the above benefits, hot stone massage is used as a therapy to relieve certain health problems such as arthritis, anxiety, stress, back pain, depression, insomnia and problems related to blood circulation.

Another benefit of hot stone massage therapy is by giving calmness to the mind, it helps you to go in to a state of deep meditation. Meditation helps the body to rejuvenate from losses very easily and the body re-energizes and will be in a perfect condition to face the challenges.

Please refer to Reflexology Contraindications.

Please note this treatment may not be suitable for Diabetics due to the heat from the stones.