Traditional Swedish Massage is the manipulation of soft tissues in the body. Massage techniques are commonly applied with hands, fingers, and elbows. The purpose of massage is generally for the treatment of body stress or pain. Only those who are professionally trained and registered by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario hold the title of Registered Massage Therapist.

Relaxation Massage (All Ages) - Slow and Gentle Massage designed to maximally calm the Nervous system and tense muscles.

Athletic Massage (All Ages) - A faster-paced massage designed to both relax the client but also get the body ready to move.

Deep Tissue Massage (18-64 yrs)- Deep Tissue involves deep techniques designed to get into troublesome areas. These techniques are not suitable for everyone and deep pressure is NEVER forced onto anyone. We use a “Pain Scale” to control deep techniques in order to keep the client safe and comfortable. Pressure levels in any massage are always monitored and controlled by the client.

Dry cupping therapy is another modality used by our certified RMTs to relieve muscle tension, improve blood circulation, release excess fluid and toxins, and stimulate the nervous system. Therapists use plastic cups and a pump to create negative pressure (or suction) over muscle. This suction creates space between the layers of muscle and tissue and draws blood to the area, effectively relaxing the muscle.

The effects of cupping can lead to some discoloration of the skin, ranging from faint red to deep purple. The degree of discoloration depends on the level of stagnation of blood in the tissue. These bruises can last anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks. Slight tenderness at the site of cupping is also common for a few days.

Although cupping therapy can be beneficial for many, it is not recommended for those with circulatory conditions or blood disorders. This is due to the increase in blood circulation that accompanies this modality. If you have any concerns about whether cupping is right for you, please consult your physician.

At Sunstone, our Hot Stone Massage is provided by Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) who are certified in Hot Stone Therapy. We kindly ask that you review the full details of this service before booking to ensure it's the right option for you.

Please note that **Hot Stone Massage is not available for pregnant or pediatric clients (ages 3 months - 17 years).**

**For adults (18+), including seniors,** we welcome you to book a Hot Stone Massage. However, please be aware that the RMT may determine during your session that hot stone therapy may not be suitable if there are any pre-existing health or cardiovascular concerns. Your safety is our priority.
What is a Hot Stone Massage?

Hot Stone Massage is a specialized form of massage therapy designed to help you relax, release tension, and ease sore muscles and soft tissues throughout the body. Smooth, heated stones are placed on specific areas to deliver warmth and comfort, allowing for deeper relaxation and muscle release.

Typically, stones made from **basalt** (a type of volcanic rock known for retaining heat) are placed on areas such as:
- Along your spine
- Stomach
- Chest
- Face
- Palms
- Feet and toes

The therapist may also use the heated stones as tools, incorporating them into a **Swedish massage** technique, which includes:
- Long, gliding strokes
- Circular motions
- Vibrations
- Tapping
- Kneading
Health Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage

1. **Relief of Muscle Tension & Pain:** The heat helps to increase blood flow to tense muscles, relax muscle spasms, and improve flexibility and range of motion.
2. **Reduces Stress & Anxiety:** The warmth and pressure work together to reduce stress and promote an overall sense of calm.
3. **Promotes Better Sleep:** By easing tension and stress, hot stone massage may support improved sleep quality.
Who Should Consider a Hot Stone Massage?

Hot Stone Massage can be beneficial for individuals experiencing:
- Muscle tension or soreness
- Stress or anxiety
- Insomnia

If you have a **chronic condition**, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure hot stone massage is a safe option for you.
Risks & Precautions

While generally safe when performed by a trained therapist, there are certain conditions where Hot Stone Massage should be avoided. Please consult your doctor before booking if you have:
- A bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners
- Burns or open wounds
- A history of blood clots
- Recently had surgery (within the last 6 weeks)
- Severe osteoporosis or a recent fracture
- Diabetes or a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

We always take measures to prevent burns by ensuring a protective barrier, such as a towel, is placed between the heated stones and your skin. **Only professional massage stone heaters are used** in our treatments to ensure your safety and comfort.
What to Expect

A Hot Stone Massage should be a soothing and relaxing experience. It may leave you feeling slightly sore afterward, especially if deeper tissue work was involved, but it should never be painful. If at any point during the massage you feel discomfort, please let your therapist know immediately.

Trust our certified therapists to provide a **safe, professional, and rejuvenating experience.**