Hotstone massage perfect release of post-holiday stress
By: Victoria Sadlocka - Novi News

Being stoned from head to toe doesn't usually sound like something to make an appointment for, but at Salone Nadwa and Day Spa in Novi, it is a must.

The Novi Town Center salon and spa recently debuted the innovative hot stone foot and facial massage.

In a rich atmosphere, men and women may enjoy a relaxing session of warmed Basalt Lava stones rubbed over their face or feet hitting tension points, causing a unique sensory sensation.

The technique, which is most popular in the southwest portion of the United States, has become more popular in the past two years.

"People love these," said Fiona McCann, massage therapist at Salone Nadwa and Day Spa. "It feels so good on the face. A lot of people wouldn't think about that."

Utilizing warm stones, the hour-long facial massage includes smooth stones gliding over the face, including the sinus area, temples and jaw joints.

McCann performs the facial massage and said the benefits go beyond a feel-good stress-relieving session.

She said other therapeutic benefits from the massage include sinus relief, help with TMJ, and alleviation of joint pain.

"It is a lot more calming in the winter because it really helps seasonal ailments," McCann said.

The therapist uses a special blend of eucalyptus and peppermint oil for congestion relief.

For stress relief - which may be needed after the hectic holidays - McCann uses a blend of lemon, orange and lavender which is very popular with her existing clients.

For the massage, the smooth lava stones are heated in a crock-pot with water and essential oils. Then, before the actual massage is performed, massage oil is applied to the dark massage tools.

McCann said the heat from the stones helps the oil penetrate the skin and muscles more intensely bringing the blood to the surface, helping circulation. She described the treatment as more of a Swedish massage because it uses a lighter touch technique.

Natural Nail and Foot Care Specialist at Salone Nadwa and Day Spa, Marina Palazzolo, performs the stone foot massage.

The hour-long treatment consists of an about 15 minute massage for each foot and a full foot treatment.

Palazzolo said the massage is similar to a regular foot massage with the exception it utilizes the hot stones.

The specialist takes the warm rocks and goes up and down each leg before beginning the feet. While doing one foot, the other rests in a whirlpool bath while each client sits in an adjustable massage chair the entire time.

Adding to the massage, Palazzolo puts Basalt Lava stones in between each toe to relieve pressure.

"It is a more beneficial deeper state of relaxation," Palazzolo said. She said during the regular foot massage her clients usually talk to her and joke around, but during the stone massage they close their eyes, stop talking and totally concentrate on the feeling.

The massage, which is great for people who are on their feet a lot, relieves stress and hydrates the skin. She also said the amount of men coming in for the treatment has increased.

"It feels so good," said Kendra Hubbarth, who works at the salon and spa.

Hubbarth, who spends a considerable amount of time on her feet, find the massage a very relaxing experience.

The stone facial and foot massages are both $75 and an appointment is required.