This massage technique developed in Arizona utilises smooth, rounded lava stones heated to a temperature of approx. 50° C. About 40 of these stones are then placed on the body on defined energy centres. Alongside heated stones the massage technique also employs ice-cold marble. The stimulation induced by the alternation between hot and icy cold is similar in form to Kneipp treatment.
The La Stone treatment relaxes the muscles, and this effect is enhanced by intensive massage. The actual massage, which is carried out using stones of different sizes, only starts after careful preparation. In the early stages of the cure the body is covered with fragrant scented oils and background music is played to create a sense of well-being.
The use of heated stones to ease muscular cramps is by no means a new discovery: similar methods were being employed by the Chinese 2000 years before the birth of Christ.