Stones have been used for therapeutic purposes worldwide for centuries. The Japanese, Scandinavians, North American Indigenous Peoples, Chinese, and Buddhist Monks have all used stones for alleviating pains. Many different types of stones can be used for hot or cold stone application.
Alternating between hot and cold stones massage in a tight, congested area has substantial effects. This process allows for vasodilation and vasoconstriction to occur in order to bring fresh blood containing oxygen and nutrients. Hot stones treatment first frees up stored toxins, while applying cold stones after constricts the area and enables fresh blood to be carried through. Hot stones therapy is applied again to act as a pump to flush out sore muscles by bringing fresh blood to the area and aid in overall relaxation.