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Hot stone therapy is a relatively new form of massage. While there are those who jump at the opportunity to try something new, there are some who are wary about engaging in something unfamiliar to them.

This is why having a hot stone massage therapy for the first time may be a little uncomfortable for some people. Not knowing what to expect or not knowing what this will bring about are some of the factors that cause a person to be anxious.

Fortunately, there are ways you can do to feel comfortable and to ease your concerns. Here are some tips you will find useful:

1. Knowing all about hot stone therapy is one of the keys to feeling comfortable for your first hot stone massage session. You may learn and study about it by reading books or researching online so you will have sufficient knowledge about it such as what to expect during the session, what the benefits of this therapy are and how to prepare yourself for it.

Some of the important things you need to know about this style of massage are:

' The therapist will use basalt stones which are rich in Iron and are able to absorb and retain heat well. He or she will sanitize these stones and heat them in 120 and 150 degree water in preparation.

' Traditional strokes of Swedish massage will be used while heated stones are being placed on key energy points of your body.

' Stones of various shapes and sizes as well as massage oils will be utilized during the entire session.

' The heat from the stones enables the muscles to release tension and to relax.

' Some of the benefits you will get from this therapy include improvement of blood circulation and relief from pain and stress.

2. Communicating with your therapist is also another important aspect in having a comfortable massage session. Before undergoing a session, discuss with your therapist the following:

' The therapist's educational background and experience. It is essential that you have confidence in your therapist's skills otherwise you will feel worried and uncomfortable during the session.

' Preferences on things such as temperature, lighting and type of music.

' Don't hesitate to speak up if you're not comfortable with the amount of pressure or the intensity of the stone's heat.

' Talk to your therapist if you are not comfortable about doing the massage in the nude.

3. Prepare for your therapy. If you're not properly prepared, it is very difficult to feel comfortable especially during a first time session so be sure to'

' Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.
' Not to eat a heavy meal at least one hour before your session.
' Relax your mind and body by meditating or taking a hot bath before the therapy.

The truth is: there's nothing to be wary about your first hot stone massage therapy. After you experience how blissful, soothing, and comforting the whole therapy is, you will find it crazy that you ever felt uncomfortable.