How to Use Stones in Massage Therapy

For those practicing massage, the idea of incorporating stone therapy into your practice may sound appealing, as this form of therapy is not only therapeutic, but popular and profitable as well. There are some basics you need to understand about the art of giving a hot stone massage, as well particular steps you want to follow when offering this form of massage to clients.

There is, of course, special equipment needed in order to perform a hot stone massage. The most obvious of these is the stones themselves, as well as a heating unit to warm the stones and various massage oils that can be applied using the stones. Other incidentals, such a tools for removing the stones from the heating unit, are also needed.

When heating massage rocks, most massage therapists simply use roasting pans. These are easily acquired and an efficient way of heating stones with great temperature control. Rocks can also be held at a warming temperature in an oven utilizing these same roasting pans. For those who visit clients at other locations, insulated containers are best for transportation. Remember that massage stones should never be heated in the microwave.

When purchasing massage stones, consider not only the size and shape, but also the type of rocks. Some are simply much better at retaining heat. A common rock that's reasonably priced and very effective is the basalt stone, also known as basalt river rocks or volcanic basalt stones. While some therapists use actual gemstones for performing hot stone massages, cost is a huge consideration.

How many stones are needed for a typical heated stone massage will vary according to the type of massage performed. A fully body massage will require anywhere from 45-58 stones. While you can use fewer stones, you'll need to reheat them more often, which will interrupt the session and your client's ability to relax. To clean these stones before another session, you will want to sanitize them and store them in a clean, dry container.

Massage oils pair well with the use of massage rocks as the rocks work as a great way to apply the oils evenly. Most therapists use olive, rose, or grapeseed oil when giving a hot stone massage. Aromatherapy is also a popular pairing for heated stone massage as it does enhance the experience for clients. Which oils should be chosen for use during the massage is entirely up to the therapist, but lavender is always a popular choice.

When beginning a heated stone massage, focus on the client's face utilizing a set of small stones. Place these under the lips, on the forehead, and one on each cheek. Then slowly massage a light coating of oil into the skin. Once this has been finished, most therapists move to the legs, using larger stones and focusing on one leg at a time. The arms should follow in this same manner before the client is turned and the process is repeated. The back is a great source of tension and most therapists spend a longer period of time massaging larger stones into the skin.

Stone massage therapy isn't complicated to incorporate into a massage practice but there is a new technique that needs to be acquired as well as a lot of accompanying accessories.