The Basic Equipment Required in Hot Stone Massage Therapy

A hot stone massage therapy has become a popular and one of the most requested massages in spas and practices all around the world. It is a massage therapy that uses different kinds of cold or hot stones. It relieves muscle spasms and sometimes is even used for alternative therapy in alleviating pain in illnesses or injuries. It is used with a combination of a Swedish massage with deep heat and pressure provided by warm basalt stones.

If you are a masseuse and planning to incorporate the stone therapy into your practice, it is important you learn the basic equipment used for this massage. Here is a short list of the fundamental tools you need:

1. Massage table
These are specialized tables used to position clients during a massage. Typically, a massage table is easy to clean, heavily padded and has a horse-shoe shaped head support allowing the patient to breathe normally while lying face down.

2. Linens for the table
These are used for dressing the massage table. If you want to add a special touch for the client, you can use a sheepskin to warm the pad underneath the flannel linens.

3. Electrical heating unit

Many masseuses utilize roasting pans for the purpose of heating the stones. These pans can be purchased in any retail store and is available online. An insulated container is also a good alternative especially if the therapist frequently travels to their clients.

4. Massage oils
The three most commonly used massage oil are grape seed, olive and rose oils. Most therapists use their oil of choice during massage session. Oils are used as a lubricating source for a hot stone massage. The element of aromatherapy will definitely enhance a massage session. Lavender oil is also a good choice because it promotes relaxation.

5. Basalt stones
Massage stones comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and packages. Basalt stones are generally used for a hot stone therapy. It can absorb and retain heat very well.

The number of hot stones used in a stone massage can vary. In a full massage, there are approximately 48-56 stones you need to use. You can also use fewer stones but you will need to constantly reheat them.

It is also important to keep the stones clean after using them. There are various storage bags available for this purpose. Usually it is included in your purchase if you buy a stone package.

6. Optional equipment
These will include the utensils used for removing the stone s in the heating equipment and different varieties of essential oils.

Most people will be blown away from the level of relaxation a hot stone massage can offer. Not only is it a pleasurable experience for the mind and body but it also alleviates physical pains and aches. Having the right equipment and techniques will certainly allow the client to experience a relaxing massage but will also reduce the strain placed on the therapist while doing the massage.