Accessories are an imperative piece to any fashion puzzle as well as every profession. The sensational art of message therapy is no different, in fact, taking on this lucrative career means committing to the tools of the trade as well. And in the case of message therapy the accessories can be few, but expensive. Especially if a therapist decides to incorporate hot stone massage into their repertoire.
Spas all across this magnificent land of ours are incorporating the practice of hot stone massage therapy into their line up of services as it has become radically requested. The concept of hot stone massage is that of naturally releasing the body’s own endorphins and easing the body’s stress and tensions therefore allowing the massage strokes to penetrate more deeply while the body is asunder a profound relaxation. Practicing this necessary technique means having stones, a heater (slow cooker), a strainer, tongs or slotted spoon and towels. These of course accompany having a massage table and a stable; level surface which to place the rocks on. This article is going to delve into these accessories, their uses and where to obtain them.
The Rocks
Hot stone therapy is commonly referred to as hot rock therapy. The rocks used in massage therapy need to be a combination of hot and cold rocks. The hot stones are used to relax the muscles through direct heat. The cold rocks are used to decrease inflammation and ignite the blood cells regeneration. The most widely used are Basalt (for heat) and Marble (for cold). Because hot stone massage therapy is ever more popular, finding these stones aren’t a difficult feat by any means.
You can buy the stones in single or set formations. Buying then singularly may mean more of a price tag as most companies discount the sets. A set of basalt stones can range from $19.99 to $250, while marble sets range from $35 to $400. They can be purchased on amazon.com and eBay or through spa supplies manufacturers.
The Heater
The stones are heated in water and as a result require a machine that can comply with this process. The most common heater used is the slow cooker. There are also branded ‘spa’ heaters as well (although they are technically still slow cookers). Whichever brand you choose, the device must be able to heat up to 120 degrees. But, don’t let the rocks heat beyond this temperature as it will cause burning.
The cookers can be bought at most department stores, retail outlets and e commerce stores providing home appliances as well as spa supplies manufacturers. They generally cost between $40 and $400.
Accessories
Mittens for the rocks to be placed in are readily available and can be purchased in packs of varying amounts. A strainer is to simply strain the excess water from the stones to prevent the scalding water from harming the client. Tongs and/or a spoon with slots are needed to safely remove the rocks from the hot water and of course a towel is used to place between the client and rocks to prevent pain and/or injury. These accessories can cost less than $20 and are available at your local grocery and department stores.
Though these accessories can be pricey adding hot stone massage therapy to any spa or therapists credentials is a great investment. If done well, your investment will repay itself ten fold, and then some.
Author Resource:-
Sara Ryan regularly writes for http://www.tirmassagestone.com, the leading hot stone massage supplies provider. They provide massage stones and many other accessories in the massage industry.
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