A stone massage therapy is a pleasurable way of releasing stress and rejuvenating the body, mind and spirit. In this type of massage therapy, different shapes, colors and sizes of massage stones are used. It is an ancient method utilized by healers to serve as extensions of their hands in facials and healing treatments.

The most basic equipment used in this massage includes the massage table, linens, essential oils, the heating equipment and the stones used for the massage. The stones are an essential part of the massage therapy so it is important to take care of them. It must be used properly in order to give the client with the best massage experience. It is crucial to follow the correct procedures when heating and maintaining these warm stones. Here are some helpful tips to keep your stone collection in good shape:

• Once you have purchased your stones, it is advised you rinse them initially with warm water. It is also recommended to apply essential oils on them. This process is called breaking in the stones. After applying the oil, allow the stones to sit for awhile and absorb it. The stones are now ready to be heated for a massage therapy session.

• There are many appliances that can be used to heat the stones for the massages. Some may use a crock-pot before actually buying a stone heater. If you are planning to use this, then it is important to follow some crucial steps. The temperature of the heating equipment should be set to medium and the stones arranged uniformly inside the pot. This will ensure that all stones are heated evenly and in the same temperature. But it is still better to buy a proper heater especially designed for heating massage stones.

• Cleaning the stones properly is also important to keep them in shape. You should boil the stones in approximately 7-10 minutes in a pan filled with water. River or sea water is the recommended type of water you need to use. Adding salt to tap water is also a good option. Let the stones cool naturally in room temperature. This method will help the stones to be as good as new.

• There are several types of stone heaters found in the market. They are usually shallow pans that can hold preheated water. In this way the stones are able to absorb heat evenly. Whatever type of heater you use, it is the therapist’s main responsibility to maintain the rocks in its ideal temperature and not too hot for the client.

• After cleaning the stones, you should let the stones to sit awhile before using them again in another hot stone massage therapy session. Let it dry first inside or outdoors.

• Check the stones once in a while to make sure they are not too hot for the client’s skin.

• You can also use disinfectants that can help in cleaning your stones. Other product such as tree oil and alcohol are also used. However, these substances absorb the scents and may possible be allergic to some patients.

After purchasing your first set of stones, spend some time learning how to properly take care and maintain them. Although they may be hard and efficient, follow these essential tips so that they may serve their purpose well.