There are two types of hot stone massage: LaStone therapy, a trademarked technique for authorized providers that uses warm and cold stimulation, and standard hot stone massage, originating from ancient Hawaii and not restricted by trademark. LaStone therapy uses 54 basalt stones that are heated in water and 18 marble stones that are cooled in ice. Standard hot stone massage therapy uses gentle stimulation without cold stones, to avoid contrast, and is a trend augmenting manual massage.
Benefits
Hot stone massage calms the body, relieves the effects of stress, improves soft tissue metabolism and strengthens the immune system, according to Leslie Bruder, founder of the Institute for Phenomenal Touch Massage. Regular use of hot stone massage has a positive effect on well-being. Hot stone massage also helps relieve the pain from physical ailments such as arthritis, due to the heat from the stones. It helps improve circulation and helps the body remove toxins.
Equipment
Hot stone massage requires equipment that is not necessary for traditional massage. This includes a set of stones, a table for holding the stones, an electric skillet for heating the stones, or an electric stone heater with a thermostat, and essential oils to disinfect the stones. Massage oil is required instead of cream or lotion.
Types of Stones
The types of stones commonly used by hot stone massage therapists are basalt (volcanic rock), quartzite (sandstone sedimentary rock), marble or jadestone. The stone kit should have about 55 stones, including 36 working stones for massaging the client, four tool stones for specific massage techniques and 15 placement stones for body warmth. The best stones have a smooth surface. To find the stones you must collect them or buy them from a distributor.
Considerations
The massage room should be clean, quiet and comfortable. Keep the lights dim to promote relaxation. Add atmosphere to the room with candles, soft music and potpourri or flowers, to make the client feel welcome. Keep the equipment in a convenient place where you can get to it without having to stop the massage. Make sure a warm blanket is available nearby, to cover the client or support the legs, head or stomach. The therapist should radiate a calm presence and pay attention to the client while massaging, without talking too much.
Technique
Use a massage technique without stones for a few minutes to make the client feel comfortable. Keep a pile of stones near the massage table, close to where you will start the therapy. Ensure that you have several bowls of oil in the massage room so you can dip into them and oil your hands. Slide your oiled hands across the tops of the hot stones.
Touch the stone with with your fingertips first, then grasp the stone's edge and finally the whole stone. Make sure that the stone fits in the center of your palm with your fingers curled around the edges.
Start the hot stone massage technique by moving the stone quickly along the skin, especially when you are working on a large area of the body. Move the stone slowly when the stone is not as hot or when you are working on a small area of the body. Use quick strokes to stimulate the client or slow strokes to relax a muscle.
If the stone is too hot to hold, flip it over. Be careful not to burn yourself or the client with hot stones or dripping water, and never overheat the client by using too many stones.
References
- "Hot Stone Massage: A Three-Dimensional Approach"; Leslie Bruder; 2010
- "Hot Stone and Gem Massage"; Dagmar Fleck and Liane Jochum; 2006
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