Alison Lewis sports massage therapist is delighted to announce that a new type of massage is now available to her clients. Hot stone massage is a very therapeutic, relaxing massage that can be given on its own or incorporated into a deep tissue massage. It uses a much slower technique, allowing the heat of the stones to penetrate into the body, loosen the muscles and allow tension to be released. The stones used are volcanic basalt stones, hand-picked from a river in Peru which retain the heat and are so smooth they glide over the skin when used with massage oil or wax. They are heated in an electric bag, which means they can be used by mobile therapists and are much less messy than the traditional hot water tank.

“As it is a slow deliberate method of massage it is incredibly relaxing and feels heavenly at the same time as doing you good!” says Alison.

“I am very excited to be able to introduce this into my repertoire of treatments as it will be beneficial to so many different types of people.”

Older people who are perhaps nervous of a ‘deep tissue’ massage would certainly benefit from a hot stone massage to increase circulation and enjoy the relaxation as well. For those clients with muscular spasms or knots, using the stones can help release the trigger points, but does not necessarily feel as invasive as traditional sports massage. The treatment can also be combined with cold stone massage, using chilled marble stone, which helps with inflamed tissues and pushes blood and waste products out of a damaged area.

People do not need to wait until they feel tense and tight or damaged before having a massage - it is well-known that ‘prevention is better than cure’ and having a regular treatment helps your circulation, relieves tension and ensures your muscles are in good order, enabling you to carry on everyday life with your body in the best shape to cope.

Hot wax is another treatment offered that is particularly good for those with arthritis or recovering from broken wrists or ankles. The heated paraffin wax encases the painful joint and is wrapped up, allowing the heat to penetrate into the joint prior to massage. This has proved to be a wonderful relief for arthritic hands and can accelerate healing and mobility of stiff joints following a break.

Alison is offering a special introductory price until the end of November for a hot stone massage of £30 for an hour’s treatment. Hot wax treatments are £20 for half an hour. Senior citizens can enjoy a 10 per cent discount on all treatments. Home visits are available. Gift vouchers are also available - a perfect present for Christmas!

For further details or to book an appointment, please contact Alison on 07970 420730.