JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa introduces Healing Hot Stone Massage

JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa has introduced a unique new treatment, the Hot Stone Massage. While this is a well known treatment in Europe and America, it is still relatively new to Asia.

This unique treatment involves the use of specially selected stones which retain and radiate heat that are used to heal the body with their mineral contact and induce deep relaxation. The stones are 'basalt rock' - a modified igneous rock that is formed by either a volcanic or sedimentary process. Having been broken or eroded by the passage of water over time, the stones are then washed along the river bottom where they become smooth and round, making them idea for body treatment purposes.

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The use of hot stones dates back to the ancient Greek and Roman times when they were used by native healers. The stones are used in two ways during the massage. In addition to being placed on various parts of the body during the massage, the therapist also places a stone in the palm of her hand during the massage process, multiplying the benefits as the heat deeply penetrates the muscles, providing pain relief as well as improving circulation and inducing deep relaxation - almost like floating on a sea of warmth.

"It is said that one massage stroke with a hot stone is equivalent to ten strokes using only the hands," said Joy Phijipree, Mandara Spa Manager for Phuket. "The Hot Stone Massage has quickly become one of our best selling treatments together with our signature treatment, the Mandara Massage in  which two therapists work in rhythmic harmony to provide the ultimate  massage experience," she added.