How to Prepare the Limbs for a Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage uses hot volcanic stones in specific spots along the spine while a therapist massages the limbs. The results can be relaxing and deeply theraputic. Some massage therapists use the hot stones in their hands while massaging the limbs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Place the heated stones on the appropriate areas of the person's back. How long the stones stay in place depends on how long they hold their heat.

2. Apply lotion to the limb you are going to massage. Make sure that the lotion is warm before applying it to the person receiving the massage.

3. Start massaging the limb with petrasage. This is the spreading of the muscles. Use the fingers and balls of the thumb. This is a massage movement commonly used for muscles that are above a bone, as in the arms and legs.

4. Use compression techniques next. Compression is just as it sounds. Work up the limb, compressing the muscle for a few moments and then move to the next spot.

5. Continue massaging the limb using various techniques. Stretching, compression and effleurage are all used. Effleurage is using long gliding strokes or stretching.

6. Apply the same lotion and massage technique to the other limbs.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the person receiving the massage comfortable. Monitor how they are reacting and note any signs of discomfort.

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