Massage is a popular form of alternative therapy that is used in a variety of ways, from stress reduction to muscle relaxation and pain reduction. In fact, an estimated 18 million adults and 700,000 children in the United States use massage therapy each year, according to surveys conducted by the National Institutes of Health. Massage can come in many forms, including shiatsu, reiki, deep tissue and Swedish. One common type of massage that can be used on its own or integrated into other modalities is hot stone massage. Anyone can perform this modality with the right tools and a little training.
Flat River Rocks
The most important tool for a hot stone massage are flat river rocks. Although any rock could in theory be used for a hot stone massage, river rocks have a smooth and even surface, making them easier for the therapist to handle, and more effective when used during the massage. These stones come in a variety of sizes and can either be purchased from a store or online, or they can be gathered from a river. If you gather your own stones, wash and disinfect them before using them for the massage.
Heating Element
A heating element is another important tool for a hot stone massage. Heating elements for this form of massage look similar to a slow cooker and contain enough space for both water to immerse the rocks in and the rocks themselves. The heating element heats the water, which imparts its heat into the stone. You can purchase a heating element specifically made for hot stone massage, or you can carefully use a slow cooker to heat the rocks to between 140 and 200 degrees F.
Tongs
When taking stones out of the heating pot, they can be extremely hot. To ensure that you don’t burn your skin, use tongs to remove each rock, instead of reaching your hands into the hot water.
Towel
Hot stones should be placed on a towel next to the heating element until they have cooled down enough so as not to burn the person receiving the massage. Clients most likely will have different heat-tolerance levels, so you may need to use the towel as a buffer between the skin and the hot stone during the massage. When the stone has reached a more comfortable temperature, it may then be placed directly on the skin.
Massage Oil
Not only can rocks be strategically placed directly on the skin, they can also be used in the hands of the therapist as a massage tool. To reduce drag on the skin, use massage oil, cream, gel or lotion to lubricate the surface of the skin, which allows the rock to easily drag across the tissue.
