Stone massage can be performed dry or with oils, however, therapists can generally find that the use of oil can help the stones to retain their heat, as well as affecting the pressure and manipulation of the movements. Natural vegetable oils should be used as a base, with essential oils incorporated into this. Organic oils can be partially absorbed into the skin and condition it, as well as providing lubrication.
Mustard oil is a popular choice due to the heat it generates, particularly in cold winter months. This oil raises the localised temperature of the body, stimulates blood flow, reduces pain and swelling and also soothes muscle stiffness. Almond oil is a popular and easily obtainable oil which can be good for prematurely ageing skin and hair, as well as combating pain and stiffness, and problems of the nervous system. Coconut oil is favoured by female clients due to its sweet aroma, and moisturising effects. Sesame oil is high in iron, calcium and phosphorous, and helps to moisturise and strengthen skin and hair, whilst also reducing muscular aches and pains, stiffness, and swelling. It is also particularly useful in the fight against ageing and can restore the natural colour of the hair, preventing greying. Olive oil is renowned for its effects in treating arthritic pain, muscle tension and swelling. Most products can be used in conjunction with the stones, the only criteria being that it is not made unstable by the heat, as some skincare products can be separated by high temperatures.
1) Clean the stones with disinfectant before every use.
2) Put stones in a stone heater for at least 30 minutes before using.
3) The temperature of the stones should never exceed 125 degrees F. Generally if you can handle them comfortably then they are okay to use. Always check with your client that the temperature is OK.
Adding aromatherapy to your hot stones treatment
How to incorporate aromatherapy? The wealth of combining both!
Adding aromatherapy to your hot stone treatment is easy and has an amazing affect on your clients’ mood and physical well-being. For instance, try the following recipe to alleviate muscular pain and aches:
Prepare your blend into a small bottle. Pour the essential oils first and then add your carrier oil. Apply the oils first on the body and then apply or/and massage with the hot stones.
Muscular Aches Pain
* 7 drops of Birch
* 6 drops of Ginger
* 6 drops of Peppermint
Preparing your Work Area
While Holistic Massage can be carried out with little equipment other than a couch and oil, a therapist will usually be working in a treatment room specially set aside for the purpose of massage and other therapies.
o Size: The room you work in should be adequate in size and allow you to walk freely around your client.
o Décor: A therapy room should be relaxing and welcoming. The working area should preferably have a good supply of natural light. Tip – use a blind to temper strong natural light. When you do use artificial lighting it should not be too bright and should be indirect so that it does not shine into your client’s eyes. If you light candles always remember to extinguish them!
o The floor should be of a material that is easily cleaned or vacuumed and is not slippery, noisy or cold.
o Temperature and ventilation: Your room must be warm enough for the client not to become chilled but not so warm that it’s uncomfortable for you to work. It should be ventilated to prevent it becoming stuffy. Tip: as the body cools very quickly during a massage a blanket or large towel should be on hand to cover the client if necessary.
o Hygiene: Always make sure that the room you’re working in is clean and tidy. Remember, first impressions last. If your toilet and the room it’s in are not clean it gives your client the wrong impression of you and could lead them to question your own hygiene practices.
o Music: Always check with your client if they’d like to have music playing during the therapy. There are many specialist relaxation CD’s available to accompany massage and other therapies. Don’t try to match the rhythm of the music as you work as this will inevitably lead to a less than satisfactory experience for your client. Tip: why not suggest that your client bring their own choice of music to relax to.
o Refreshments: Always offer your client a drink before leaving. Chilled water, fruit juices or herbal tea are all suitable.
o Aftercare: Remember to verbally run through aftercare advice with your client and give them these on paper to take away with them.
Holistic Massage Preparation for the client and the treatment area
o Position yourself so you can reach all the parts that you are massaging
o Remember your own body posture
o Immaculate personal cleanliness is essential. Some strong perfumes/soaps etc. may be offensive to clients
o Well-manicured hands – clean, warm, dry, supple. Nails MUST be short!
o No jewellery
Environment
o Room must be well ventilated, warm & private
o Couch, pillows, additional blankets & oil
Client
o Must be adequately undressed
o Be sensitive to cultural needs – you may need to consider the need for a chaperone
o Position client correctly with your couch at appropriate height
o Use pillows / blankets and ensure the client is comfortable, warm & relaxed
Examination – observe the skin for
o Dryness
o Oiliness
o Bruising
o Cuts / abrasions
o Skin quality
o Check client is comfortable / in no pain
o Note bony landmarks
o Note skin texture
o Gradually increase the depth of the massage. Feel the response of the tissues and note any abnormal findings e.g. tightness, spasm etc.