Hot Stone History and Technique by Sarah Woods

Hot stone massage is a treatment that is both powerful and healing. When performed correctly, and in a fluid manner, this type of massage can allow for the release of muscles that seemed as though they would never be able to let go. Hot stone massages in the western world include an array of techniques, however, the working tools are usually the same. These include: a set of stones that accommodate every nook and cranny on your body, a heated pot similar to a crock pot to heat the stones, and a sheet to create a barrier between the recipient and the stones, in case the client is too heat-sensitive. Of course, the client will be properly draped and laying down in a comfortable and supported position. Other than that, it is just the client, the therapist, and the stones.

Each stone is unique--just as each person is unique. Every stone is placed on the person receiving the service in a way that fits their body, and will give them the most comfortable and therapeutic experience. The rocks range in size from tiny toe stones that infuse heat into your littlest pinkie, to a large moon-shaped rock that cradles and comforts your aching neck. With stones to custom fit each client, your experience with westernized hot stone massage should certainly be a pleasant one.

Western hot stone massage is performed as every typical massage is performed. It is usually a full body treatment, excluding the obvious personal areas. Facial and abdominal massage techniques performed with heated rocks are absolutely out of this world, and will surprise those who are open to receiving such a treat. Of course, if there is any area that you as a client are concerned about, you should always share any feelings of reserve with your therapist. It is their first and foremost goal to make your massage experience utterly enjoyable. We never take offense to you sharing your feelings; it makes us happy to know that you are comfortable.

Hot stone massage is relatively well-known in the West (thanks to Mary Nelson the founder of Lastone Therapy), however the history of it is not. When you look into the background of this amazing technique you find that it has existed for thousands and thousands of years. More recently, it has morphed into a labeled technique, but ancient cultures have been using hot stones for medical and spiritual practices for a very long time. Native Americans, peoples of India, Asia, Hawaiians and indigenous people in South America had this idea of using stones to heal many, many years ago.

Native Americans have been performing sweat lodges for spiritual enlightenment and health purposes for thousands of years. They would build a tent-like structure with a pit in the very center to place the hot stones in. Heated for days, these high metal content stones retain and maintain such high temperatures that can stay hot for hours. In a sweat lodge session water would be poured over the stones and the steam from the hot rocks would wash over you in a blast of heat. I actually experienced a traditional Cherokee sweat lodge once, and I must say that the heat is stifling. Therapeutic! but stifling. A session can range in length but it is usually over only when the spiritual ceremony or goal has been attained. Heated rocks have been key aids in guiding one’s body and mind throughout time.

In indigenous traditions, hot stones have been used to alleviate pain from muscle or even menstrual aches. But, the purpose of a warm stone on one’s body is not only to comfort, it increases circulation and is truly beneficial to the overall balance of energy within the body. Digestion issues can literally melt away, and a deep feeling of true relaxation follows a treatment with hot stones. I highly recommend experiencing it for yourself! The results are utter bliss.