How to Give a Hot Stone Massage

Contributor

By Paul Favors
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Few things are more relaxing than a hot stone massage. Whether you're a licensed masseuse or just learning the ropes, you can perform one of these massages rather easily. Follow the steps below to give a hot stone massage perfectly and keep your clients coming back for more.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Roasting Pan
48 to 56 Massage Stones
Massage Table
Fresh Linens
Towels
Massage Oil

Step 1

Heat the massage stones for 15 to 50 minutes depending on the nature of your heating unit.
Step 2

Prepare fresh linens for the massage table and play some relaxing music.
Step 3

Have your client come into the room for treatment and explain the process to them so they'll know what to expect.

Giving a Hot Stone Massage

Step 1

Place fresh linens on the massage table and about eight, flat stones on the table where you think your client's back will be. Be sure to arrange the stones in pairs and leave roughly one to two inches of space between each stone.
Step 2

Have your client lay down on the massage table but be sure their spine isn't touching any of the stones but they are on each side of the spine.
Step 3

Rub a small coat of oil over your client's face. Take four little stones and put one on the forehead, upon each cheek and beneath the lips.
Step 4

Massage your client's leg with oil. Choose the appropriate sized stones and rub them on each side of your client's leg. Place a little stone between each toe and cover the leg. Repeat this process for the both legs and feet.
Step 5

Coat your client's arms with oil using the effleurage stroke. Massage the arms with a couple of medium-sized flat stones. Put a warm stone in the palm of your client's hand as you complete the arm. Repeat this process for each arm.
Step 6

Remove the stones on the face, between the toes, and in your client's palms. Have them lie on their side for a moment as you clear the stone from the massage table. Have you client lie on their stomach and coat the back with oil using the effleurage (defined as touching lightly) stroke. Put stones on each shoulder, the lower back and the scapular area after you have massaged the back area.
Step 7

Uncover one leg and put a medium to large sized stone beneath the buttocks, behind the knee, and on the calf. Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 8

Take a moment to massage your client's scalp as well as their shoulders and neck.
Step 9

Clear the stones from your client's back and legs.
Step 10

Finish up with an effleurage (defined as a light touch) stroke along with a nerve stroke on your client's legs and back using your fingertips.

Comments

mommashopper said

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on 11/7/2008 This sounds like just what the Doctor ordered. Thanks for fully explaining the process.

listenhere101 said

on 10/1/2008 sounds very soothing.

Alisiane said

on 10/1/2008 I only recently became aware of this kind of massage, and though I don't think I'd trust anyone other than a pro to administer one for me, kudos to anyone willing to give it a shot :-)