Archive for the ‘Massage Stones’ Category
The Use of Massage Stones and Massage Rocks Can Be Awesome
February 22nd, 2010
There is one business which can practically guarantee a satisfied customer every time. This would be massage therapy. One branch of this form of therapy uses rocks or stones. Massage stones or rocks are typically heated. If placed directly on the body, a piece of fabric is placed between the stones and skin to prevent accidental burns. Cool marble stones can also be used during treatment, most often if there is muscle inflammation in the area. Whether hot or cold, both can be beneficial and very agreeable.
Hot stone therapy is most helpful for those who suffer from back pain and aches, osteoarthritis, poor circulation, people who tend to feel chilly or persistently have cold feet, muscle tension, insomnia, stress or anxiety and even depression. Many others find the hot stones soothing and get it purely for relaxation and enjoyment.
Hot stones are mostly made of basalt, a type of lava rock rich in iron so it retains heat. The rocks are usually flat and smooth. Stones used on the back are about the size of a large egg but flat. After the rocks are heated they are typically placed at specific points on the back, in the palms or between the toes, although this varies with the needs of each individual client.
Ongoing communication with the client is important during the treatment in order to ensure the stones are not too hot. The gentle clicking of the stones can provide a soothing, relaxing resonance for both the client and therapist to derive pleasure from. Care should be taken the stones are cleaned between clients, keeping them fresh and sanitary. Placement of the stones, as well as size may vary according to the needs of the client and treatment desired.
A typical hot stone massage lasts from 60 to 90 minutes and costs from $50.00 to $190.00. The therapist often begins by applying oil to the body. The oil allows the rocks to glide smoothly over the body, and then she/he proceeds to use the stones to massage the back. After the heated stones have relaxed the back muscles, the therapist may put down the stones and use his/her hands to directly massage the skin. Afterwards the stones may be placed back on the body and left for a short period of time. The client is then asked to turn over lying face up, and stones can be placed between one’s toes and in the palms of one’s hands, while the therapist repeats the process.
One need not go to a costly salon or buy expensive kits, which are usually comprised of uniform, polished stones, in order to reap the benefit of a good hot stone massage. Instead one could visit a rock quarry or landscape firm, but select rocks that are round and smooth. Ask to see their collection of river rocks as these stones tend to naturally be smoother due to the constant flow of water over them. One will need larger ones for the back, tiny ones for between the toes, round marble shaped ones for rolling with and a few oblong ones for trigger-point usage. Then purchase a warmer, a slow cooker or large 6 quart tabletop skillet with a lid, big enough to heat all of the stones simultaneously. Get a strainer, tongs, a food thermometer, body oil with essence and at least two tea towels. Remember to wash the rocks and stack them in the warmer with water until they are submerged. Do not heat the water higher than between 104 and 120 degrees for maximum safety.
 12 Hot Stone Massage Basalt Rocks 15 25 Stones  US $16.99
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 SPA HOT ROCKS THERAPY STONES FOR SPA HOT ROCK MASSAGE US $9.99
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 Hot Stone Massage Rocks Esthetician 24 Piece Set US $24.99
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Naturally, this type of massage is contraindicated for individuals immediately after surgery, for people with skin infections, rash or open wounds, after chemotherapy or radiation treatment unless recommended by one’s doctor, people prone to blood clots, or pregnant women unless the therapist is certified in pregnancy massage. As one might expect hot stone massages should never be done directly over bruises, unhealed wounds, tumors, inflamed skin, abdominal hernias or areas of recent fractures. Also one should avoid eating a heavy meal immediately before receiving this type massage. Massage stones or rocks when used appropriately can be a very beneficial tool to a very enjoyable and relaxing experience.
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