Massage · Oakville

Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage at S.D. Wellness Clinic is a full-body massage in which smooth heated stones are used alongside the therapist’s hands. It is offered at 117 Cross Ave B6 in Oakville from $79, in English, Mandarin or Cantonese. Booking is by phone or text at 905-338-7551.

What it is

Smooth basalt-type stones are warmed and either rested on the body or held by the therapist and worked over the muscle. The heat does part of the job that pressure would otherwise have to do, which is why many people find a hot stone session feels less intense than a deep tissue one at the same pressure.

It is a full-body treatment by default. If you would rather the work stayed on the back and shoulders, say so at the start — that is a normal request, not a special one.

What to expect

You will be asked what you want from the session, which areas to concentrate on, and which to leave alone. Pressure is set by you and can be changed at any point; you do not have to wait until the end to say it is too much or too little.

You undress to your comfort level and stay covered throughout, with only the area being worked on uncovered. The room is quiet and warm.

When we would suggest something else

Heat is not right for everyone. If you are pregnant, have a skin condition on the area, reduced sensation, a circulatory or blood-pressure condition, or are recovering from a recent injury or surgery, tell us before you book — depending on what it is, we may suggest Swedish or deep tissue instead, or ask you to check with your doctor first.

If what you want is focused work on one stubborn area rather than whole-body relaxation, deep tissue (Chinese tui na) is usually the better fit.