| Origin | Heated stones have been used for warmth and healing in several cultures. The modern spa style was developed by an American massage therapist in 1993 (branded "LaStone Therapy") and spread quickly through the spa industry. |
|---|---|
| Feel | Warm, heavy and soothing. The heat helps many clients relax quickly; strokes with the stones are smooth and gliding. |
| Pressure | 2–6 / 10 |
| Used for |
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How it works
Smooth stones, usually basalt (a dark volcanic rock that holds heat well), are heated in a water heater made for the purpose. The therapist:
- Places warm stones on the body, often along the back, in the palms or between the toes, usually over a sheet or towel.
- Holds stones in the hands and uses them to perform strokes like Effleurage, with oil on the skin.
- Swaps stones as they cool, and may use cool stones (for example, marble) for contrast.
Safety
Burns are the main risk. To reduce it:
- Use a heater with a thermometer and keep the water within the temperature range your training and the manufacturer specify. Do not guess.
- Test every stone on your own inner forearm before it touches the client, and keep stones moving on bare skin.
- Put a layer of linen between stationary stones and skin. Never place a client’s body weight on top of a hot stone without a buffer.
- Check in often. Heat builds up, and some clients cannot feel heat properly.
- Screen during intake. Take particular care, or avoid heat, with reduced sensation (for example, neuropathy or diabetes), circulation problems, heart conditions, pregnancy, varicose veins, skin conditions, recent injury, sunburn or broken skin.
- Clean and disinfect stones between clients.
Evidence
There is no good research on hot stone massage specifically. High-quality reviews show short-term benefits for massage in general, and warmth is widely found comforting. Claims that stones “balance energy” or “align chakras” are not supported.
Hot stone massage needs specific training beyond Cert IV relaxation massage.