HOT STONE MASSAGE

Question 1

Explain RSI, how it is caused and hot to avoid in when carrying out hot stones massage.

Answer 1

Caused by injury to the soft tissues from over use. Less likely to occur when carrying out hot stone massage than swedish. Symptoms include tingling, pain and weakness in wrist and hands. Prior to performing massage - stretching and mobilising movements. Take regular breaks. Ensure you work in the correct posture.

Question 2

Position and function on the sinuses.

Answer 2

In forehead, cheeks and nasal cavaties. Function humidifying and warming inhaled air. Lighting the weight of the skull, produce mucus.

Question 3

Effects of hot and cold stone therapy on the circulatory system.

Answer 3

Hot stones cause vasodilation of blood vessels resulting in erythema. Increased circulation bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients. Increase pulse rate. Increased efficiency of waste removal.
Cold stones vasoconstriction of blood vessels. Reduces inflamation as excess blood sent away.

Question 4

Effects of hot and cold stones on lymphatic system

Answer 4

Hot- Increases efficiency of lymphatic system. cold - Reduces swelling.

Question 5

Effects of hot and cold stones on skin

Answer 5

Hot - Improves skin colour due to blood flow. cold - De-sentisizes and
and soothes skin.

Question 6

Effects of hot and cold stones on muscles

Answer 6

Hot stones - Muscles fibres relax easing aches and pains. Reduces spasms.
Cold - analgesic properties body releases natural pain relief prostaglandin. In stressed muscles reduces histamine production so muscles relax.

Question 7

Effects of hot and cold stones on nervous system.

Answer 7

hot - Induces relaxation. Cold - stimulating.

Question 8

Effects of hot and cold stones on digestive system.

Answer 8

Hot - Decreases peristalsis and relieves spasms. Slows down digestive system. Cold - increases peristalsis. speeds up digestive system.

Question 9

Psychological effects of stone therapy.

Answer 9

Reduce stress and anxiety

Question 10

Different methods of cooling stones

Answer 10

Add cool water to heater
Adjust thermastat
dip in cool water briefly
Set the stones on the couch
They will cool slightly when you do your first effleurage

Question 11

Basalt stones

Answer 11

Dense volcanic stones. Hold heat for a long time and release it slowly. Have energy and heating properties. Heated before use. Naturally occurring not shaped by man.

Question 12

Marble

Answer 12

Often considered best for a cold stone massage.
Often start off white, however turn yellow/green because of the oils.
Good at retaining coolness and draw heat from the body.
Do not heat up rapidly during massage.
Can be sculptured into a specific shape.

Question 13

Marine

Answer 13

Sedimentary stones from the ocean. Silky and can be used without massage medium. Cooled before use and take on a green hue. Retain coolness and draw heat from the body. They need to be wrapped when stored.

Question 14

Semi-precious

Answer 14

Used for spiritual, emotional and physical healing.
They are laid over the chakras to help restore harmony and vitality. Some can be used to recharge the energy of the stones.

Question 15

Adapting for a male client

Answer 15

larger denser strokes.
Care of harrier areas.
Avoid femoral triangle.
If a female therapist don't massage the buttocks or abdomen.
Don't lean over.