Are you looking for a new and exciting way to relax? If so, you might want to consider a lava shell massage.
This new, trending massage is quickly becoming one of the top spa treatments around, and for good reason – it’s simply amazing!
So should you try it, or does the thought of it make you want to clam up (sorry…)?
Read on to find out!
Key Facts
- Lava Shell Massage: A Lava Shell massage is a type of heat treatment that uses polished, naturally self-heating shells filled with a blend of minerals, algae, dried sea kelp, and salt water.
- Techniques Used: Techniques from Swedish and Deep Tissue massage are often incorporated, making it versatile in addressing different wellness goals.
- Heat Release: The shells create heat through a chemical reaction, which aids in muscle relaxation, increased circulation, and relief of tension.
- Benefits: Benefits reported from Lava Shell massages include reduced muscle tension, stress relief, improved sleep, and a boosted sense of wellbeing.
- Treatment Duration: A typical Lava Shell massage can last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the client’s needs and the therapist’s recommendation.
What Is A Lava Shell massage?
Tiger-Striped clam shells are used as a massage tool in this massage, which is a form of heated massage therapy.
In the Philippines, clams have been eaten for many centuries. As you can imagine, that creates a LOT of shells.
Spas are now using this massage is an eco-friendly alternative to the traditional practice of discarding the shells.
Special gels and liquid are inserted into the shell for this soothing massage treatment, which when activated, heat the shells up (this is the “lava” or sometimes known as lava gel).
The heated shells are used by the massage therapist instead of their hands to perform a full-body massage.
Why Are Tiger Clam Shells (Codacia) Used for Lavashell massage?
Striped Tiger clams (or Codacia) shells are often used as massage tools because they have a smooth surface, perfect to massage the body.
As well as being smooth, it also has ridges on its surface that help stimulate nerve endings. These ridges also help to scrape away dirt, oil, and other debris from the skin.
While some people favour the “real deal”, it’s not uncommon for spas to use man-made shells, usually ceramic—sometimes mixed with crushed shells when they’re made.
Each ceramic shell is hand-painted to look like a real Codacia shell.
The main benefit of the manufactured shell is that it tends to heat up faster and stay hotter for longer (which makes for a longer, more relaxing experience for you).
How Does Lava Shell Massage Work?
It’s very similar to a normal full-body relaxing massage, except that instead of using hands and elbows, the masseur will hold the heated shells and use them to massage your skin and muscles.
Essential aromatherapy oils will be used alongside the shells, to make sure they can glide smoothly over your body.
The heat from the shell allows the massage to get deep into the muscles, which provides a more relaxing experience.
The heat can really help work out deep knots and muscle soreness.
What Are The Benefits Of A Lava Shell Massage?
Natural oils, dried algae, sea salt, and dehydrated sea kelp are all part of what makes lava shells so special.
This mix of ingredients chemically reacts inside the shell, which continues to give off heat for up to two hours, which is a lot longer than hot massage stones.
Also, the calcium ions that come off of the shells make the skin look firmer and better.
Of course, some of those benefits won’t be the case if you are using the manufactured versions.
As well as these lava shell specific benefits, like any form of massage, it also helps with:
- Reducing stress and tension
- Helping to improve blood circulation
- Relieving aches and pain
- Reducing inflammation from sore muscles
- General relaxation and well-being
Also, it’s a great way of recycling used shells, which is a valuable resource—so a massive tick for being eco-friendly:)
Why Is It The Latest Spa Trend?
There are a few reasons:
First of all, it’s a unique experience that’s sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Second, the shells are environmentally friendly—you won’t have to worry about using any harmful chemicals or oils.
And finally, it’s a great way to recycle old shells that would otherwise end up in the trash.
It’s certainly a unique and exciting spa treatment, that is sure to provide a sensual and relaxing experience.
Of course, you could argue that it’s just because it’s the ‘new kid on the block’ and people are choosing it for novelty value, but it’s worth trying for yourself and seeing what you think.
How Is A Lava Shell Massage Different From A Hot Stone Massage?
In some ways, they are actually quite similar, as they both rely on heat as the key element of the massage therapy technique.
However, one key difference is that hot stones can actually be left on the body during your treatment, whereas lava shells are actually held and used by the massage therapist throughout your massage.
So to put it simply, in a lava shell massage, the shells are always held by the massage therapist, but in a hot stone massage, the stones are sometimes held by the therapist.
You can read all about Hot Stone Massage in our post here.
Conclusion
So there you go. There’s no doubt that Lava shell massage is ‘trending’ right now, but do you fancy giving it a go?
Let us know 🙂
