Massage Stones

11 Super Steps to Give the Perfect Massage With a Massage Stone

As you stir the pot carefully, the pleasant aroma of the colorful chicken soup tells you that it is almost finished. You have spent the past few hours preparing the meal. First you made the broth for the soup. Then you added the ingredients. Now the chicken soup is in its final stages. You dip the cooking spoon into the broth, and then lift it to your mouth, to taste it. Suddenly, to your horror, you realize that you forgot to add one ingredient to the chicken soup: the chicken!

When performing a massage using massage stones, it is vital to always follow the correct procedures, from preparing the stones, to cleaning them after the massage. Failing to adhere to the right steps, can make the activity as ineffective as a stone massage without the stones!

1. Performing a good hot rock massage begins with doing the necessary pre-massage tasks. The first step is to prepare the materials you will need:

o massage table
o sheet for the massage table
o massage oils
o massage stone kit
o heating machine for the stones

2. Before beginning the massage, you will need to create a massage environment before the patient arrives. Place the clean sheet over the massage table. Also, heat up the massage rocks. You can also different methods to improve the ambiance. This can include incense, low lighting that does not glare, and tranquil music that will relax the patient. Some examples of ideal music include elevator music instrumentals, light classical music, and meditation music.

3. Have the patient lie down on the table, face-up. Before you begin the massage, explain to him or her about exactly what a stone massage is. While he or she may be familiar with various massage techniques, such as Swedish and Shiatsu, a stone massage might be a completely new experience. If the patient knows what to expect during the massage, he or she will be able to relax more, making the experience more effective.

4. Place the massage stones to the left and right sides of the spine. However, the stones should not be placed directly on the patient's backbone.

5. Start the massage with the patient's face. Use a layer of oil and massage it lightly. Place four stones in a cross formation on the face. That includes one stone on each of the cheeks, one on the middle of the forehead, and one beneath the lips.

6. Next, massage the legs. Massage some oil onto the leg, and then use a hot stone on both sides of the leg. Afterwards, position small stones between each of the toes on the patient's right foot. Then duplicate the process with the left leg and foot of the patient.

7. Massage both arms next. Coat one arm with oil and then use a moderately-sized flat stone to massage the arm. Next, place a warm stone onto the patient's palm. Repeat the process for the other arm and hand.

8. Ask the patient to then lie face-down. Massage the back with stones, pinpointing important acupressure points. Then place a massage stone on each shoulder, and one on both sides of the middle and lower back.

9. Place a medium-sized stone underneath both sides of the fanny, at the knees' backs, and atop the calves.

10. Massage the patient's scalp and neck.

11. Remove the massage stones from the patient's body.

The massage stone provides an ancient yet effective way to enhance your massages. At the end of the massage, allow your patient to cool down or sleep. Serving some hot green tea is the final step to make the massage a feast for each of the patient's senses!