You don’t have to be a professional therapist to administer the relaxing, soothing relief of hot stone massage. The little or no pressure require makes it an easier techniques to master.

The practice of hot stone therapy dates back to ancient time. Indian Yogis, Chinese dynasties, Roman gymnasiums and Turkish baths used hot stones to balance the body’s energy and for healing. In modern times people can believe what they want about healing powers and balancing energy. The fact of the matter is hot stone massage helps you relax deeper and feels great.

There’s no need to feel intimidated to give a hot stone massage. Just follow some basic set up and techniques and you’ll be fine. First, let’s talk about the stones themselves. These smooth stones are often basalt, which is a black volcanic rock. They are used for their superior heat retention. You can find stone kits online, but they are a little pricey. When it comes right down to it you can find the same thing down by the river. Professionals use 50 stones, but for your purposes 15-20 stones in varying sizes of flat and round will do the trick. Dark stones retain heat better than light colored stones, and obviously smooth stones feel better against the skin than porous ones.

After you have secured your stones, it is time for preparation. Spread a sheet or large towel out on the ground or bed. Have another one ready for cover with a few pillowcases or smaller towels nearby. Set a relaxing mood with candles and classical or new age music. The room itself should also be nice and warm.

Now it’s time to heat the stones. The stones are heated in water, so a large crock pot or turkey roaster is ideal for maintaining a constant temperature. A large pot with a heating plate could also work. Place the stones in the pot and fill with water just until the stones are covered. Adjust the heat so the range is between 120-150 degrees. Let the stones warm in the water for about 20 minutes. Dry them after you pull them out, and have a bowl of cold water standing by in case they are too hot.

Preparation is over, now it’s time for the good part. Start the massage with the person on their stomach with a sheet over them. Place a stone on the upper back to test the heat. If the heat is uncomfortable, place a pillowcase or light towel underneath. If the stone is too cool, place the stones directly on the skin. Arrange eight stones along the spine, and then place a large, flat stone right below the waistline.

While the stones on the back work their heated magic you can use stones to massage each of the person’s legs rubbing the stones in long, smooth strokes without using much pressure. Remember to always push outward toward the extremities. Stones should also be placed on the soles of their feet.

When the back massage is complete have the person turn over with their arms out with palms facing up. Place warm stones in their hands while you massage the legs first using the same technique as the other side. Move the massage to the arms while the person is still holding the warm stones. Replace them if they have cooled. When done with the arms set aside the stones and use your hands to knead the shoulders, hands and fingers. Finally, apply oil to the top of their chest, and massage with warm stones, and finish the massage with a light scalp massage.

The experience should take about an hour with the benefits of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation lasting long after the stones have cooled.

Author Bio: Sara Ryan regularly writes for AML Stone Source, the leading hot stone massage supplies provider. They carry such products as hot stones, as well as many other many other accessories for hot stone therapy.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hot stone massage kit,massage stones