HEATED STONE MASSAGE
(also known as hot rock and hot stone massage)
This modality is one of the most relaxing, stress reducing massages available.
The stones used during the massage are normally basalt (along with marble on occasion) and vary in size from small (1”) to quite large (3-5”). A certified and well-trained practitioner takes great care in utilizing a combination of placement and movement to create the most beneficial massage for their client. Stationary stones are never placed directly on the skin whereas the stones being used in the massage are in direct contact. Stones used in the massage are rotated through a hot water bath (120-130F) to maintain a constant temperature.
Stationary stones may be placed in a specific pattern for various reasons either on top or under the client, typically along the erector muscles of the spine or on the sacrum. Very small stones are often placed between the toes and/or fingers and sometimes a ‘belly’ stone is used as well.
The practitioner is ever cognizant of the importance of temperature (too low will not allow adequate muscle relaxation; too high is uncomfortable and potentially dangerous), placement, flow and sequence of massage along with many other variables throughout the entire massage.
As with all modalities, the client’s comfort is paramount and client feedback with proper practitioner response is very important.
In a typical relaxation massage, the back, arms and legs of the client are massaged with the heated stones in sequence exposing only the area being worked on at any time. If, for any reason, the client feels uncomfortable or wishes to end the massage, they need only say so.
At the end of the session, cool (not cold) stones are sometimes placed on the cheeks, chin and forehead to help the client transition from deep relaxation to fully awake state.
Heated stone massage is best suited for those with chronic muscle aches, some forms of arthritis and particularly fibromyalgia. It is also ideal after a long day of snow shoveling!
Before partaking of heated stone massage, check that your practitioner is: certified and insured; what association(s) they are a member of; request information on their training (a two-hour video or 1 day training are not sufficient to learn the techniques required) and qualifications; do they have a ‘code of ethics’ and ‘standards of practice’ to which they adhere; how long they have practiced and references. The practitioner should be happy to answer all your questions, to your satisfaction, at no charge in advance of your appointment.
At the Academy of Holistic Modalities inc., we offer a government accredited 75-hour certification program entitled ‘EnerCHI© Heated Stone Massage’. For further information, see our Academy website or call Susan Crutcher.
Experience a relaxing, rejuvenating Heated Stone Massage session at Sutopia Holistic Wellness. Aromatherapy, Reiki, gemstones, chakra and energy work are all easily incorporated into a heated stone massage for a more personalized treatment. For a list of heated stone massage practitioners personally known to Susan, contact her via email, phone or through a website listed below.
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This article was written by
Susan E Crutcher, RRPr, CPTN-CPT, CRP, CAP
Life Empowerment Mentor, Success Coach and Complementary Care Practitioner
Owen Sound / Wiarton, Ontario, Canada 519-534-2569 scrutcher@Sutopia.com
Owner, Sutopia Holistic Wellness Integrated Health Care www.Sutopia.com
Manager, Greystone Retreat Luxury Vacation Rental www.GreystoneRetreat.com
Co-Founder, Academy of Holistic Modalities Inc. www.AcademyofHolisticModalities.com
© 2008 Susan E Crutcher. All rights reserved.