Hot stone massage uses a combination of warmed stones with special massage techniques to relax tense muscles, relieve pain and stiffness in the body, and improve blood circulation. This treatment can be used as a treatment for muscle pain, rheumatism, and autoimmune disorders. The heat from the stone can penetrate the skin and increase blood flow, releasing toxins, and providing a deeper muscle relaxation effect than a regular massage. By placing heated stones on your acupuncture points, you can help release energy flow while enhancing your body's natural healing abilities. Therapists who use hot stone massage techniques can also modify the technique according to the needs and desires of the client. It is very important to remain vigilant and pay attention to the condition of your clients. Burns from hot stones are the #1 reason most often used to sue licensed massage therapists!
Step
Method 1 of 3: Gathering the Materials Needed
Step 1. Find or buy stones
The stone used in this treatment is usually made of basalt because of its ability to retain heat. The surface of the stone must be very smooth so as not to irritate the skin. However, if you can't find basalt, you can use fine river stone. You can purchase a hot stone massage kit online through Amazon or eBay. Don't buy stones from a material store unless you can choose the stones you want to buy in person.
You should prepare 20 to 30 stones, but some professional therapists sometimes use 45 to 60 stones. There should be at least two large oval stones 20 to 15 cm in diameter, seven stones the size of your palm, and 8 small stones the size of an egg or a dime
Step 2. Prepare the massage area
If you don't have a massage table, a mattress or floor can be used. After choosing a place to do the massage, you can spread out a clean sheet or a thick towel so that the person being massaged can lie down. In addition to providing a sense of comfort for the person, the mat used also serves to absorb excess oil from the massage process.
- To create a comfortable massage area, try lighting some aromatherapy candles. Gentle fragrances such as lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and vanilla will help clients enjoy the massage session.
- You can try playing soft classical music or the sound of rain for added comfort.
Step 3. Heat the stone
Ideally, you should prepare the hot stone about 30 to 60 minutes before the massage session begins. The water temperature should not exceed 54 °C. The stone will turn cold when worn. Stones with a heat below 43 °C are used for warm massages. However, keep in mind that stones at 40 °C can cause burns if left on the skin for a few minutes.
- To heat the stones, use a crock pot that can hold at least 1 liter of water or a large skillet with sides measuring about 8 cm. Remember, crock pots and similar kitchen utensils have a rotating heat cycle. In other words, the temperature can vary so it must be monitored closely. It's a good idea to look for a heater with a precise temperature control instead of a low-medium-high heat setting.
- Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature in the crock pot. (Never use a glass thermometer as it can break easily). You should also use a warm or low setting on the crock pot to prevent the water from boiling.
- You should also apply a little massage oil on each stone that you want to use.
Step 4. Never place a hot stone directly on the client's skin without moving it
The image in the spa advertisement is not accurate because the image is only made to look attractive. To prevent burns, you should place a flannel sheet or towel over the client's body and then place a hot stone on top.
Remember, the heat from the stone takes about 3 to 4 minutes to penetrate the skin
Method 2 of 3: Doing a Massage
Step 1. Remember, you should never tell the client to lie on a hot stone as this can cause serious burns
Step 2. Place four small stones on the client's face
After the client lies down, prepare four small stones that have not been oiled, then place them on the acupressure area of the face. There should be one stone on the forehead, one under the lips, and one on each cheek. You should not oil the stone as it can irritate or clog the client's pores. Alternatively, you can cool the stone instead of heating it to reduce swelling on your face.
Step 3. Place a medium or large stone in the area of the sternum, collarbone, and hands of the client
Depending on the height and width of the client's body, the size of the stone used varies greatly. However, you should try placing one or more stones on one side of your collarbone, two large stones along your breastbone, and two palm-sized stones in your hand. The client does not need to grip the stone, but simply hold it as relaxed as possible.
Step 4. Use two palm-sized stones to massage other areas of the body
Expose the body part to be massaged and remove any stones that have previously been placed. Apply a small amount of oil to the stone and skin to be massaged. Follow the groove of the muscle to relax any tense points and replace the cooled stone. When you're done, close the massaged area again, change the stone, and then move on to another area. Remove all the stones after you finish the massage session.
Step 5. Turn the client over
After finishing massaging the front of the body, ask the client to turn around and lie on his stomach. For added comfort, try placing a rolled towel under the client's ankle.
You should also change the stone every now and then to keep it warm
Step 6. Cover the client's body and place the stone over the shoulder blades, behind the knees, and between the toes
Use stones that are large enough to fit over your shoulders and the back of your kneecaps. For between your fingers, use small stones. You will then need to bandage each foot with a towel to maintain the temperature and prevent the stone from shifting.
After placing the stones, cover the area to be massaged and rub a little oil into the skin. Prepare two palm-sized stones that have been oiled, then use them to massage the client. As before, cover the area that has been massaged, replace the cold stone, and move to another area
Method 3 of 3: Trying Different Techniques
Step 1. Use a stone to massage instead of using your hands
Do this by gently moving the stone over the tense, stiff area. The pressure from the stone may be a bit harsh, but since the client's muscles have relaxed enough from the heat, the procedure is generally painless.
Step 2. Combine warm stones with other massage techniques
You can try a Swedish massage or a deep tissue massage. This will maximize the benefits of the massage experience. Although the stone can heat and relax tense muscles, other massage techniques can be applied without the side effects of causing discomfort – whether the stone is still on top of the client's body or has been moved.
Step 3. Alternate hot stone with cold marble
Most clients find that after some time, their body will feel so relaxed that they don't feel the change in temperature when you put the cold stone on. This process is often recommended to relieve wounds caused by severe swelling or inflammation.
Warning
- Never leave a stone in one place unless you've lined the area with a thick flannel or towel. Without a base, hot stones can cause burns.
- When doing a hot stone massage yourself or hiring a therapist to do it, make sure the massage technique is done correctly. Learn how to get a hot stone massage from an expert in this field or consult an experienced therapist for the best results.
