
A hot stone massage uses smooth, heated volcanic stones as an extension of the therapist's hands. Some stones rest on the body, others glide over oiled skin. The warmth helps muscles relax faster, so the massage feels deep without heavy pressure. At Elvara Spa it costs AED 700 for 60 minutes and AED 900 for 90 minutes.
Before you lie down, the stones are heated to a comfortable temperature. The therapist may place a few along your spine, in your palms or between the shoulder blades while working on other areas, then use stones in the hands for long strokes. The rest is a full body massage with oil, similar in rhythm to Swedish massage.
Warm, not hot. The therapist checks the temperature first and keeps oil between stone and skin. If a stone ever feels too hot, say so and it will be moved or cooled straight away.
Most guests describe it as heavy, warm and very calming. Many drift off. Because the heat does part of the work, the therapist can relax deep muscles without pressing hard, which suits people who like the feeling of a deep massage but not the intensity of deep tissue.
Heat treatments are not recommended in pregnancy, with high blood pressure or heart conditions, varicose veins, diabetes with reduced sensation, skin infections, or on sunburnt skin. Tell us when booking if any of these apply.
Hot stone gives the deepest warmth and a slightly firmer feel. Hot candle uses a candle that melts into warm oil with plant butters, softer and good for dry skin. Hot oil is a classic full body massage with warmed aromatic oil. All three cost from AED 700. See the full list of types of massage.
They should not. Temperature is checked before use.
Yes. Strong air conditioning keeps many people tense, and the warmth helps.
It feels deep because of the heat, without needing heavy pressure.
People who are pregnant or have high blood pressure, varicose veins, diabetes with reduced sensation or skin problems.
At Elvara, 60 or 90 minutes.
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