[1] Stone massage and similar practices involving the placement of objects of different temperatures have been dated back to ancient civilizations as a form of healing and therapy.
[1] Cultures including Native American, Hawaiian, and many South Pacific nations have practiced similar methods to provide physical and spiritual ease.
[3] Similar practices in China that date back to 2000 years involve the use of heated stones to stimulate improved internal organ function.
[1] This form of massage quickly rose to popularity, becoming a multi-million dollar industry, and has a strong focus on spiritual healing centering around chakras and energy channeling.
[10] It is highly recommended to obtain background knowledge and training in the principles of hydrotherapy to safely carry out stone massage therapy.
[6] Training to participate in stone massages focuses significantly on the adaptive approach necessary to conducting this treatment, emphasizing the importance of understanding the needs and current condition of the client.
[weasel words][2] Studies have shown that stone massages and related therapies have assisted in improving sleep quality for individuals.
As the stones carry out the majority of the contact and work with the client, therefore the instance of stresses and strain being experienced by the therapist in the areas of hands, wrists, and upper body are reduced.
[1] There are a number of dangers and risks associated with stone massage therapy, particularly due to the presence of high temperatures being exposed to the skin.
[5] Clients with recent skin or shallow abrasions such as cuts, burns, bruising and varicose veins are advised to avoid stone massages as this therapy has the potential to increase further injury or greater concerns such as tissue damage.
[11] Such conditions or minor injuries also pose a risk for higher chances of infection from bacterial exposure from the stones, massage oils or the masseuse.
Representation of the practice commonly shows the stones arranged in an orderly pattern down the center of the client's back, tracing the spine.