What is LaStone Therapy?

 The first observation that you might have about this type of session is that it is called "therapy" versus "massage."  This choice of wording is very intentional and emphasizes the holistic aspect of what a LaStone session offers. There are other types of massage that are generically called "hot stone massage," which are usually a modified form of a standard Swedish Massage.  LaStone differs from these types of massages in several ways. The basis of the LaStone techniques and philosophy are rooted in aspects of the Native American tradition. The goal of the therapy is to provide an experience for the client that promotes certain outcomes such as: enhanced detoxification, neurological stimulation, energy balancing and harmony, a meditative / peaceful state, muscle relaxation, and emotional release / stress reduction. In order to obtain these goals a variety of specific techniques are used.

 The most prominent difference from other stone work is that LaStone Therapy uses both heated and chilled stones. Using a thermal combination of stones allows the therapy session to address issues of inflammation and energy blockage, as well as provide deep muscle and nervous system release. In fact, at the most basic level, a person’s nervous system response does not differ based on whether it perceives a heated or chilled stone. It is this nuance of LaStone Original Body technique, along with general principles of geothermal therapy, which creates the very deep and almost trance-like state that LaStone massage can provide. From an energetic perspective, the stones bring the Earth element and the Stone Clan People (a Native American belief) into play in order to ground, drain energy, and improve chakra functioning. This results in a sense of clearing and balancing.

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Your Session:

 A LaStone session lasts approximately 90 minutes. The session is performed on a traditional massage table with traditional bottom sheeting. Top draping consists of a large bath towel. In order to allow for the full-body stone strokes, it is best if no undergarments are worn. Each session is tailored to the client’s specific needs. There is always some form of beginning and ending energetic process that helps the client and therapist prepare for the massage. Initially, the client will be comfortably positioned supine (on the back) lying on various stones.  Based on areas of inflammation and specific need, these stones may be heated or chilled. A significant amount of oil is used to aid in the gliding flow of the stone strokes and to help in the thermal energy transfer. The actual massage may consist of relaxation strokes, deep tissue work, energetic stone tapping (which creates a piezoelectric effect), or stationary pressure. The back of the body will also be massaged.  During back work the draping towel is folded down and positioned between the legs to allow for full-body strokes. The gluteal cleavage is always covered. The end of the session consists of techniques designed to help balance any residual energy that may be present.  After receiving a LaStone Original Body session, most clients find themselves in a very peaceful, relaxed and pleasant state. Time is provided for the client to remain on the table and linger in the place that they may have found.