Lava stone massage

The stones used during the massage carry within them the power of fire and earth, water has smoothed them, and the sun has left its energy in them. In contact with the skin the stones begin to pass on the warmth of fire and the strength of the earth, the energy gathered from the sun balances our energy flows, and water calms the senses.

Stone massage was known in China, India and elsewhere in Asia, as well as among the Native Americans — everywhere lava stones are found. Thanks to their high iron content, lava stones hold heat very well. Before use the stones are warmed in water, which awakens the primal force within them. Hellad Kolumatsid use Peruvian lava stones naturally polished in rivers and green jadeite stones, Frantsila herbal oil, and natural essential oils. The treatment combines the approaches of different peoples — influencing energy channels (meridians), acupuncture points and chakras with stones — together with hand massage.

Pre-warmed lava stones are placed on the chakras of the body — each chakra, an energy centre of the organism, is connected to a particular organ system, the endocrine glands and the emotions. Emotions can affect the chakras and through them the energy flow of the corresponding organ to such a degree that a health disturbance can show up on the physical level. With warmth the energy channels are activated and energy blocks are released, raising the tone of the whole organism and balancing its energetics. As a result, muscle tension disappears, blood vessels dilate, and the digestive, metabolic and hormonal systems balance out. Because of its deeply relaxing effect, this type of massage is especially effective for depression, stress and exhaustion.

After working on the energy centres with either jadeite or lava stones, the whole body is massaged with stones. To finish, a semi-precious stone best suited to its nature is placed on each energy centre, to reinforce it further with the right energetic charge.

Any change in vital force is the real cause of physical and emotional complaints. Stone massage removes those changes. Stone massage balances the energy moving in the chakras and energy channels on a 'bump and dip' principle. From where there is too much, energy moves to where there is too little.

• stress

• insomnia

• muscle and joint pain

• circulation problems

• emotional imbalance

• high blood pressure, risk of stroke

• acute skin diseases

• fever or inflammatory illness

• serious heart, kidney or lung disease

• viral or infectious disease

• malignant tumours

• diabetes

• pregnancy

Jadeite is a strong, tough stone whose name comes from the Spanish phrase piedras de ijada — 'stones of the loins'. It was believed that this stone helped against kidney colic. It is mostly greenish in tone, but can vary from grey to reddish shades. The composition of jadeite contains more than 60 chemical elements from the periodic table; it is a translucent, non-layered calcium-magnesium silicate, with iron and chromium giving it its colour. It represents two distinct minerals known as jadeite and nephrite. The main deposits are in China, Japan, Burma, Tibet and Mexico.

In China jadeite was a symbol of state power, being the second most important gemstone after pearls, and more valuable than gold. The Chinese called it yu and it symbolised five virtues: moderation, justice, wisdom, compassion and bravery. In Chinese and Tibetan medicine jadeite is used as an energy stabiliser. The Aztecs and Mayans also valued jadeite highly — it was considered a sacred stone. Jadeite is among the most magical of stones, influencing both living and non-living nature; it carries within it very concentrated energy while remaining steady and balanced.

Jadeite strengthens the whole immune system, stimulates metabolism and improves intestinal function. It eases kidney-related illnesses, supports the heart and circulation, balances arterial blood pressure, and strengthens male potency. It has a favourable effect on conception when this is hindered by psychological blocks. It works very well as a meditation stone, lifts the mood and helps personal expression.

For infertility jadeite can be placed on the lowest chakra; for migraines and headaches on the forehead chakra; for discharges, digestive problems and stomach ailments jadeite is placed on the solar plexus. For kidney diseases and discharges jadeite is placed on the painful spot, ideally on both kidneys at once.

Lava stone is made of basalt, a light and porous material formed during volcanic eruptions. It is found in volcanic regions around the world. Natural, undyed lava stone comes in three colour tones — black or greyish, brown and red.

Lava stone is the stone of protection, strength, vitality and fertility. It gives a person support and confidence during times of great change. Thanks to its direct connection with the Earth, it has the power to ground both unpleasant emotions and anger.