Hot Stone Massage

With the cooler weather, hot stone massages are once again top of the popular list! I have collected my basalt stones from all over the country. I have about 80 different stones, most of these are my favorites; some are on probation (the lighter colored ones) The first obstacle is to find two stones that are very similar! They need to heat up at the same rate but they also need to fit into the hand comfortably!
Once the client is snugly tucked into the warmed bed (electric blanket) I start to warm up the back; the flat stones in the left hand corner is placed along the spine. One of these flat stones is curved and fit nicely over the upper back, close to the neck. I like to keep the client covered whilst this is going on.
A hot stone massage should be a relaxing experience and I prefer effleurage (smooth, fluid strokes) movements, rather than trying to iron out knots etc.
The smaller stones make for excellent tools in the neck area and also to warm a particular sore spot.
In the middle of my hot tray is the crystal that is placed under the bed. The mirrored base contains some LED lights and lights up the crystal in lovely specs of light and shades- gently soothing the view through the hole which makes it easy for the client to lay on the tum.
To the right is a rain stick which I sometimes use: its a lovely smooth wooded one and if used in a tilting action produces a nice rhythmic sound.
The copper bowls are very unusual and one needs to practice quite a bit to use them. The heat up quickly and cool down instantly. The rounded side is very smooth and the cup side provides a nice back scratch!
I find that I connect easily with most individuals, but once in a while there is a total disconnect on a spiritual base!
A massage is a dance; it pleases, it soothes and releases physical and emotional tension...........
Thanks to all my clients today - I gave; but you energized me!