PROVIDE STONE THERAPY TREATMENTS
This unit is about the skills involved in providing hot and cold stone therapy treatments. It covers
both massage and the placing of stones on the head, face and body. The ability to adapt stone
therapy treatments to suit individual client needs is a crucial requirement.
To carry out this unit you will need to maintain effective health, safety and hygiene throughout your
work. You will also need to maintain your personal appearance and good communication with the
client.
OUTCOMES
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Maintain safe and effective methods of working when providing stone therapy treatments
Consult, plan and prepare for treatments with clients
Perform stone therapy treatments
Provide aftercare advice
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (NOS)
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Maintain safe and effective methods of working when providing stone therapy treatments
Consult, plan and prepare for treatments with clients
Perform stone therapy treatments
Provide aftercare advice
ASSESSMENT
4 different clients on 4 separate occasions, 2 of which must be full body and face treatments.
UNDERPINNING KNOWLEDGE
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Organisational and legal requirements
How to work safely and effectively when providing stone therapy treatments
Client consultation
Preparation for treatment
Anatomy and physiology
Contra-indications and contra-actions
Stone therapy equipment
Treatment specific knowledge
Aftercare advice for clients
ASSIGNMENT
What is the definition of stone therapy?
Thermotherapy - the application of heat and cold to alleviate pain and stiffness in muscles and joints
and increase blood flow to the area.
The application of hot and cold stones to the body provides the therapeutic benefits.
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Hot stones introduce relaxation to the muscles and treat them on a deeper level
The cold stones can be used to take down inflammation in muscles, reduction of erythema
Heated stones balance the energy centres of the body and heal whilst cold stones can be
placed to relive stress.
One stroke with a stone is considered to achieve the equivalent of 5-10 strokes with the
hand, so therapeutic benefits are achieved much more quickly.
Hot cold stones can be used in facial and Indian head to perform elements of the massage.
Tucking stones can be applied.
Stimulates Lymphatic System
Metabolism increases
Warmth has sedative effects on the nerve endings. Sedative affects more than Swedish
massage.
Deep relaxation occurs with in the muscle fibres.
What could be some of the long term benefits of stone therapy treatments?
The long term benefits: Removes physical tension in the muscles, increase in circulation causes a
hyperaemia thus improving skin colour also brings nourishment to the skin improving its function,
promotes sense of well-being, encourages clients to have healthy life style, induces relaxation,
soften and breaks down fatty tissues, the lymphatic system is stimulated to remove waste products
more efficiently, metabolism increases people loose weight, clients feel calm and relaxed less
stressed, muscles less tense because of deep relaxation occur in the muscles fibres.
ORGANISATIONAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
List 3 considerations the therapist must abide by the Code of Ethics:
As a beauty therapist it is important that you adhere to a code of ethic practice .Purpose to set out
core ethical principles and guidance of good practice for its members to maintain and promote high
standard of professional treatment and behaviour towards statements, clients, other professionals,
other therapists, employers and employees.
1. Maintain professional standards of behaviour towards:
-Other members of the organisation
-Members of the public and clients.
-Other professional therapists.
-Members of other professional organisation
-Colleagues within industry.
2. Protect clients or consumers from improper practices.
3. Establish appropriate conduct
List three laws that directly affect the therapist:
1. Health and Safety at Work act 1974.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 protects self-employed people and employees, it lays down
the minimum standards of health and safety and welfare required in each area of work. It’s the
employer’s legal responsibility to implement the Act to ensure its reasonably practicable, they
responsible for health and safety at work and workers.
2. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulation (RIDDOR) 1995.
RIDDOR requires the employer to notify to the local enforcements officer, in writing, in case of injury
at work resulting absence from work for 3 days. In all cases where personal injury happens should be
reported at in the workplace accident book. Where visitors to the work are injured this must be
reported also.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at Work regulation 1992
The PPE at work regulation 1992 require manager to provide through risk assessment protective
equipment to any employee who may be exposed to any risk to health or injury during working
hours.
-Assess the need for use of PPE.
-Supply protective clothing or equipment free of charge.
-Train staff in use of PPE.
-Ensure all such equipment is well maintained.
-Ensure it is suitable for the nature of the work.
What are your legal responsibilities when working with minors? If you treating someone under age
of 16 need to ensure they are practising in accordance to a number of Government Guidelines. Its
important establishes that the child wants the treatment on voluntary basis, and they haven’t been
pushed into making a decision by an over- bearing parent or guardian. If child make any indication
that they do not wish to have a treatment, then you should not treat them under any circumstances.
As the therapist it is responsibility to ensure that the young client understands what the treatment
involved the possible benefits and risk including contra- action. The alternatives, if there are any.
Providing written information that they can look through and discuss with their parents at home
may also be useful. Make it clear to the client they are entitled to change their mind at any point
during the treatment. The treatment on fewer than 16 year olds should be carried out in presence of
a parent so they can witness the work you do. Along with a signature of consent from the parent or
guardian.
If child discloses that they are being abused the therapist has a moral and professional obligation to
report this to the appropriate authorities.
What are your organisational requirements for the removal of waste?
All waste rubbish must be placed in to bin, with has a lid and contains a bin liner. At the end of
day/session this should be sealed and disposed of immediately into the main bin liner. Any waste
that has met body fluids should be placed into a yellow bin liner if a large item, otherwise into yellow
sharp container. This will then be collected and burnt at suitable site.
What are your responsibilities as a therapist towards the Data Protection Act?
If you place client details on the computer, you will be required to comply with the Data Protection
Act. It is important that you follow the rules as peoples lives can be affected by incorrect data for
examples people can be refused jobs or credit because of this. There are eight principles of good
practice that should be followed. When processing data on the computer it should be:
-Fairly and lawfully processed.
-Hold information for limited purposes.
-Only hold data which adequate and relevant
-Ensure that the date is accurate and kept up to date.
-Hold information for no longer than it necessary
-Processed in line with the data subjects rights.
-Take security measures to prevent unauthorised or accidental access.
-Only transferred to countries outside the EU with right protection.
Explain the importance of professional image when regarding personal hygiene and appearance:
When working in such close proximity as therapist do to their clients, it is extremely important to
pay special attention to personal hygiene.
-Take daily shower or bath
-Use an effective antiperspirant.
-Teeth should be clean and mouthwash used if necessary.
-Hair should be kept clean and tied back off the face.
-Uniform and shoes should be spotlessly clean
-Shoes should be comfortable to prevent aching backs.
-Hands should be kept clean and nails should be short.
-Nails enamel should not be worn as clients could have an allergy to it. It may chip during treatment
which will look unprofessional.
Explain briefly the procedure for client preparation:
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Prepare the work area.
Follow general safety precautions of using any electrical equipment.
Fill heating unit with water so that the stone are fully submerged
You can add a thin cloth to the bottom of the unit.
Do not attempt to lift stones out with bare hands or apply stones to a client above
recommended temperature (132⁰ F /57.5⁰ C ),use insulated gloves and use spoon to lift
stones out. Allow stones to cool down before applying to the client.
Always use the thermometer to check temperature of stone.
Avoids any bony surfaces as to avoid unnecessary bruising.
Wipe excess water from stones and your hands before applying to a client.
Always check with client the temperature of the stone.
Explain the treatment procedure, benefits, timing and cost to the client
Carry out consultation and complete record card – check verbally for contra-indications.
Allow client to ask questions.
Instruct client how to prepare for the treatment: ask to remove jewellery from the area and
glasses if worn, clothing should be removed (explain what underclothes should be kept on),
provide large towel for covering the client. Leave the client to prepare for treatment.
Wash hands
Check visually for contra-indication.
Explain the importance of the service time for stone therapy massage treatment:
A calculation is made for how long hot stone massage treatment should take to insure that the price
charged for each treatment is correct and profitable. It’s important that you complete the service
within the agreed time as:
-Its prevent time wastage within salon
-Client can calculate the time required for the treatment
-Clients are not left waiting
-An effective system is guaranteed.
What are your organisations requirements for cleaning and maintenance of the working
environment?
Each work place should have its own workplace policy identifying hygiene rules.
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Health and Safety - Follow the health and safety policies for the workplace.
Personal hygiene - Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene. Wash your hands with
detergent containing chlorhexidine, which wildly used for skin sanitation.
Cuts on the hands - Always cover any cuts on your hands with protective waterproof
dressing.
Cross-infection - Take great care to avoid cross-infection in the salon. Never treat a client
who has contagious skin disorder, or any other contra-indication.
Use hygienic tools - Never use an implement unless it has been effectively sterilised or
disinfected, as appropriate.
Disposable products - Wherever possible use disposable products.
Working surfaces - Clean all working surfaces (such as trolleys and couches) with chlorine
preparation, diluted to the manufacturer’s instructions. Cover all working surfaces with
clean, disposable paper tissue.
Gown and towels clean gowns and towels must be provided for each client. Towels should
be laundered at temperature of 60⁰C.
Laundry - Dirty laundry should be put into covered containers.
Waste – Waste should be disposed of in a suitable container inside a disposable waste bag.
Clinical waste & non contaminated waste – It must be disposed of following the COSHH
procedures and guidelines provided by the environmental health department and training
by the employee.
Eating & drinking –It is unprofessional to eat and drink in the treatment area. There is a risk
of ingesting chemicals harmful to the body.
The treatment should never be performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It puts
yourself, the client and the colleagues at risk.
HOW TO WORK SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY WHEN PROVIDING STONE THERAPY
TREATMENTS
Why is it important to provide a suitable stone therapy treatment environment?
Providing a suitable stone therapy treatment environment to make client comfortable and relaxed
the right temperature of treatment room should be set, room should be well ventilated, clean and
looked cosy, relaxing music to be used and dim lights appropriate. Use cloth to put under bottom of
unit to make less noise during treatment, always make sure clients is comfortable with treatment.
What consideration do you take when preparing the stone therapy environment?
Treatment room temperature to take to consideration a minimum 16⁰C room should be well
ventilated, lighting should be adequate, the right temperature of stones, clean working
environment, safety precautions with electrical equipment, clean towels, bed rolls, massage couch
of appropriate size and ideally be height adjustable also put towel under heating unit to make less
noise will be appropriate.
Why is it important to maintain the client’s modesty and privacy?
To make client comfortable and not to expose too much so clients feel relaxed to promote
professional ethics. The client should always feel welcome and comfortable. To maintain modesty:
-You must ensure that the client is suitably covered at all the time with towels ( one for upper body
and one for lower part of body) and that only treated areas will be exposed.
- While the clients are changing, you must ensure that nobody enters the treatment area. This
should also maintain throughout the treatment with an exception of the therapist.
- Talk using the quiet tones of voice- particularly when in a training environment, as conversation
can be easily overheard.
Why is it important to cleanse the hands before treatment?
To wash your hands before and after treatments is very important because it minimise the risk of
cross-infection, and presents to the client a hygienic, professional, caring image.
Why is it important to position the client correctly during the stone therapy treatment?
Therapist should give clear instruction to the client before treatment what position they want client
on to couch. If client has wrong positioning he will not be able to relax and enjoy the treatment, may
not be coming back for treatments. Position the client on the couch ensuring maximum support and
comfort. A pillow or towel roll should be supplied for support. The position of the client should be
central to the bed and allow the therapist access to the areas that are being treated. The client
should be encouraged to lie straight and not cross they legs.
In the prone lying position (on the front), the head is usually turned to the side and support can be
given under the ankles. This position is used when massaging the back, back of legs and buttocks.
In the supine lying position (on the back) the front of the body, face, neck, shoulders, and scalp is
easily massaged. Offer support under the neck, under the knee.
Why is it important to maintain the correct standing posture during stone therapy treatment?
Posture is the way you hold yourself when standing, sitting and walking. Correct posture enables
therapist to work longer and not become tied; it prevents muscle fatigue and stiff joints; and
improve your appearance.
Therapist need to have right posture when massaging. This will prevent strain and fatigue to the
therapist whilst working. Incorrect posture and stance will result therapist not being able to work full
day and can lead to serous back injuries. Working positions are walk standing and stride standing.
Stride stance- used when working across the body. Keep the back straight and bend your knees.
Walk stance- used when working along the body. Place one foot in front of the other and use a
rocking motion from one foot to the other, whilst moving along the body. Keep your back straight.
Good posture- remember to keep your back straight, shoulders pushed back where possible, do not
over stretch , or hyper extend the knees and keep your weight as evenly balanced as possible.
How can RSI affect the therapist?
Repetitive strain injury(RSI) if you do not follow correct postural position during treatments muscles
and ligaments may became overstretched and overused resulting repetitive strain injury (RSI) This
may result in you being unable to work in short term- and potentially in long term –in occupation. To
avoid RSI your muscles must be stretched, especially those of the neck, shoulders, back, arms, and
hands .Stretching exercises should be performed slowly to avoid muscle fibre damage.
CLIENT CONSULTATION
Why is it important to encourage clients to ask questions?
Encourage client to ask lots of questions- and show them the stones, the heater, how it works and
let them hold a hot or cold stone or crystal during your consultation. Just holding the stone in the
hand and stroking it will relax the client and fill them with interest for treatment. Explain the physical
physiological and emotional effect of massage and what you hope to achieve. As you build up
relationship and the client trusts you, you can then introduce the concept of chakras and the
emotional balancing and cleansing of them.
When the client asks questions it allows the therapist see the results of the treatment and help to
understand what works best. The therapist can change and improve techniques in the treatment
according to the client’s feedback and in doing so provide the best treatment possible. The therapist
should inform the client on the treatment and make note of any contra-action that takes place. Any
possible contra indications need to be noted too. At the end of the massage the therapists is
responsible for reviewing the effectiveness in the massage and evaluate the results.
Collecting feedback can be visual, verbal, written on a record card, a questionnaire or a comments
box.
Why is important to record client responses?
A medical liaison is an important way of getting information about the client’s medical history.
Knowing these details will allow the therapist to work with the client’s needs and change treatments
if needed to. Important medical information is any operation details, muscular or skeletal problems,
digestive problems, circulation, gynaecological problems, nervous problem, immune problem, and
allergies (asthma, hay fever, epilepsy, diabetes etc.). Other information to consider is whether the
client smokes, undergoing medical treatment, on medication or drugs.
How does the therapist visually assess the physical characteristics in the range?
The therapist checks on physical characteristics during consultation. A postural analysis for example
is performed through visual checks, when the client is stood up it provides the therapist with
posterior, anterior and lateral views.
To check the posture the therapist will need to look at certain points in the back the scapular should
not protrude on either or both sides, the spine should be straight with no signs of scoliosis and the
hip should be level. The knees and ankles should be level with no swelling. When viewing the client
from the side the chin should not lean forward, no hump at the top of the back, the abdominal
muscles are not protruding and weak, the pelvis is not tilted and the feet should be flat. Looking
from the front the therapist should notice if the shoulders curve inwards which is a sign of bad
posture and check the waist, hips and knee levels. When the client is sat down the level of the spine
and shoulders should also be checked.
Also check for visual contra- indication.
What can be some of the beneficial effects of improving lifestyle?
Changing lifestyles for the better by eating healthy and doing regular exercises can benefit both the
body and mind. Exercise improves energy levels and stamina. It’s been known to tone and get rid of
cellulite, as well as being relaxing and helpful for people with circulatory problems. Healthy mind
and body not affected by stress,
If a client begins to exercise he or she can avoid the following complications:
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Gaining weight
Increasing fat mass
Low energy levels and stamina (unfit)
Becoming lethargic
Suffering from cardio-vascular and or joint problems (long term)
Lack of mobility
If the client does not exercise the treatment can be less effective.
In terms of eating overconsumption can badly affect the skin and body conditions. Processed foods
are typically the main cause of cellulite and fluid retention. A healthy diet should work with the
metabolism and steady insulin levels and will improve the overall performance of the body. If the
client is a smoker and is willing to quit it would be best for the client to do so.
PREPARATION FOR TREATMENT
How do you select the appropriate oil for stone therapy massage?
Choice of oils – your essential oil choice can only be made after a thorough consultation with client.
You choice will depend on the client’s emotional and physical condition at the time of treatments
and what outcomes the clients would like.
If you applying hot stone massage you should know that each chakra has corresponding oils.
The correct essence use in a treatment can have a balancing restorative effect on the chakra.
Oils can be blended to make massage oil or used in a room diffuser.
For example: 1st chakra essential oils- sandalwood, patchouli, vetiver 2nd chakra - jasmine, geranium,
orange blossom. 3rd chakra – basil, ginger, bergamot, 4th chakra- rose, benzoin, eucalyptus 5th
chakra – hyssop, clementine, blue chamomile , 6th chakra – rosemary, clary sage, ylang ylang. 7th
chakra - myrrh, violet, frankincense.
What areas are generally cleansed before treatment? Witch hazel, antiseptic or au de cologne - too
wipe over the clients skin if they have not showered.
Surgical spirit- to clean over client’s feet, trolley, couch etc.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
What are the main effects of hot and cold stone therapy massage on the body systems?
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When using the Hot Stones vasodilation occurs
Stimulate immune system and strengthens resistance to disease.
Increases red cell counts
Improves skin tones by removing dead skin cells and improving circulation
Regenerates tissue
Lower’s blood pressure and reduced heart rate.
Slow and regulates respiration promote deeper and easier breathing.
Stimulating lymphatic System
Metabolism increases
Warmth has a sedative effect on the nerve endings
Deer relaxation occur with in muscles fibres
Promote of well being and less stressed.
Increases blood circulation and decreases tension and stiffness in the body tissue.
When using the cold stones- marbles get read of redness and reduce erythema
Vasoconstriction
Cools the skin and inflammation
Constrict nerve endings that can cause a mild numbness.
Stimulates tighten, and increase muscles tone and decrease swellings.
What are the psychological benefits of hot and cold stone therapy?
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Reduce mental stress and promotes better sleep.
Induces mental relaxation and calms temper
Bring peace of mind.
Provides a relaxing state of mental alertness
Improves concentration
Enhance ability to monitor stress and respond appropriately.
Enables a person to make peace between they’re ambition and limitation.
CONTRA-INDICATIONS AND CONTRA-ACTIONS
List 3 conditions that would prevent treatment: Inflammation-Massage can further irritate an area
of inflammation, so you should not administer it. Inflamed conditions like phlebitis (inflammation of
a vein) dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) arthritis (inflammations of joints)
Loss of sensation- the clients with loss of sensation could not feel heat or cold as nerve endings
doesn’t recognised that so client can be easily burned.
Osteoporosis- Elderly people especially women’s with severe stoop to the shoulders often have this
condition in which bones become porous, brittle, and fragile. Massage may be too intense for this
condition.
List 3 conditions that would restrict treatment:
Skin problem: You should avoid rashes wound bruises, burns, boils, and blisters, usually these
problems are local so you can still massage in other areas.
Varicose veins- apply the light massage avoiding directly the area of varicose veins also always in
direction of toward the heart, it can be beneficial.
Bruising avoid the area of bruise.
What is a contra-action?
A contra-action is something that occurs because of the treatment and it’s undesirable.
Erythema- is due to stimulation of the circulation during the heat from stones or body massage. The
warmth created causes capillaries to dilate bringing the blood closer to the skin surface.
Excessive urination-due to stimulation of lymphatic system
Skin blemishes-released toxins and hormones may surface trough skin especially if you previously
suppressed your skin condition.
Headaches, discomfort in digestive tract or solar plexus-a build up toxins in the solar plexus.
STONE THERAPY EQUIPMENT
How should a stone tank be positioned for safety?
Always position the stone tank on safe steady surfaces make sure the cord does not create a tripping
hazard when you leave the heater plugged in.
What are the insurance implications of using non-professional stone heating equipment?
Give 2 examples of cooling the stones:
1.cool stones by placing them in a bowl of cold water for few second. 2. Gauge the temperature by
applying lubricant and rotate the stones in your hands.
Describe the massage stones, their properties, and how you would choose which to use?
Hot stones – balsat /marine – found on bottom of river or sea divided in sizes and shapes placement
stones usually large size used to put on body to introduce the heat placed on towel not directly on
skin and talking stones in smaller sizes to fit between fingers and toe nails, medium stones used as
working stones to perform body massage while the keep warm in your hands. The most popular type
of rock is basalt.
This is volcanic rock that holds heat well. The denser the rock the better it
will hold in heat. Basalt stones have a smooth texture and are fairly regular in shape with rounded
edges. They also work well for deep tissue massage. Other type of rocks includes river rocks, jade
stones chakra stones and crystal.
The cold stones- made of marble chilled on icy cold water and introducing them carefully. The cold
stones can be used for reduction of erythema, vasoconstriction, and cools inflammation, placed on
eyes during facial massage.
How stones are washed stored and re-energised?
After use wash stones with warm antibacterial soapy water to get read of oil. Wash each stone
individually and place them on towel to dry. Store stones in plastic bowls in dry cool place.
On a monthly cycle the stones will also need recharging to restore their energy levels, to discharge
all the negative energy they have absorbed throughout the treatments and reconnect to their roots
in nature. You can tell when the stones need recharging as they do not hold the heat for very long
and are nit hot to the touch, even if water is at the correct temperature.
For re-energised sprinkle those with sea salt, clear at the full moonlights. Cleansed with crystallabradorite or moonstone for cold stones cleansed with Reiki therapy. Also held under natural
running spring water or soaked overnight in bottled natural spring water. Immerse stone in sea
water then leave out to dry in sun and wind.
How is the skin protected when using the stones during the treatment?
Never apply the stones directly onto client’s skin. Allow stones to cool before applying to the client.
Gauge the temperature by applying the lubricant and rotate the stone in your hands. When using
the placement stones put them on the towel not directly on the clients back. Always ensure you
using the gloves when you taking stones out of heater. Do not place hot stones over the eyes.
What are the recommended operating temperatures for the stones during treatment?
The desired temperature is 132⁰F/57.5⁰C.Always check the temperature before using the stones use
the gloves or net when you take them out of the heater.
TREATMENT SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE
Give a brief overview of the history and culture of stone therapy:
Using stones
The oldest known civilisations to use hot stones in history include the Indian, Mayan and Ayurvedic
cultures. Rocks collected from rivers would be heated up by hot coals or hot water and used by
healers. To perform a healing process the hot rocks would be placed on cloth and onto the body
along the energy centres of the body. The hot stones are known to relax the muscle pain and ease
discomfort.
Native Americans used hot stones in sweat lodge ceremonies as a part of hot stone massage
treatments. These stones were known as grandfather stones. A key part of the ceremony are the
four elements; fire, water, air and earth which were used in the heating preparation of the stones.
Round stones were favoured to use in the massage and rubbed on areas in pain and discomfort.
Ancient rituals like these are still used in modern practice and serve a respect and remembrance in
the stones and the people.
In 1993 Mary Nelson a massage therapist from Tucson, Arizona created a system of using hot,
stones, cold stones and one room temperature stones as a massage treatment. Despite the use of
stones being a long run tradition it’s not until this year that it was fully recognised and used in
modern settings. This formalized massage treatment was named LaStone Therapy.
Every culture has its own tradition and many include the use of stones either as art to create
patterns, jewellery serving as protection, in diagnosis of health, treatment for diseases, sweat lodges
and or medicine wheels. Healers in cultures have used hot and cold stones to ease pain, aid healing
and promote physical and emotional balance. Today many people still carry with them stones for
good luck, protection or healing and even using pumice stone on our feet to soften the hard dry skin.
Explain the five elements of stone therapy
On deep holistic level, the stones have their own high vibrational energy, connecting us to Mother
Earth and Father Sky and the five elements Earth, Fire, Air, and Water. The 5 elements are provided
by the Earth and are represent the blocks of life for all leaving things. The stones connect with us on
a Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual level. The stones open and balance our chakras and awaken the 5
elements within us. Chilled stones can be used on areas of inflammation and injury- just as the sport
therapist will use the ice. In fact hot and cold stone therapy is often advertised as a ‘’fire and ice
massage’’.
How can the 7 major chakras be incorporated into a stone therapy treatment?
The Sanskrit word for chakra means,, wheel of light ‘’.Chakras are our spinning vortexes of energy
centres. These openings allow our life energy to flow into and out of our aura. The seven chakras are
associated with our physical, mental and emotional interaction. The chakras absorb our energy
through our thoughts feelings and environment we are living in and feed this to our body. Our body
is affected by the quality of the energy passes trough chakras. If a chakra is not performed correctly
has become blocked or unbalanced this could cause our physical health, mental health, and our
spiritual selves to suffer. The seven major chakras start at the base of the spine and move upwards
to the crown of the head. They coincide with positions along the spinal cord that contains major
nerve ganglia. Every chakra has it own colour and stone depending on what is affected you can use
the crystal and stones to open or balance our chakras and awaken the 5 elements within us. Each
chakras has they own function and associated with parts of our bodies controlling your body
responses. The first chakra (root chakra) red in colour located at perineum base of your spine. It
closest to earth its function is physical survival and concerned with earthly grounding. This chakra is
associated with your legs, feet, bones, large intestine and adrenal glands. It controls your fight or
flight response. Blockage may manifest as paranoia, procrastination and defensiveness. We put
stone representing the chakra hematite, garnet between legs above knees to give grounded feelings
and balance.
Chakra 2-The Sacral (or Naval Chakra) orange located between base of your spine and your navel. It
is Associated with your lower abdomen, kidneys, bladder, circulatory system and reproductive
organs and gland. It is concerned with emotion. When the second chakra is functioning properly a
person is creative, imaginative, energised and lively. Blockages in second chakra create obsession
with sex, emotional problem, compulsive or obsessive behaviour and sexual guilt. Stones: coral
moonstone.
Chakra 3-The Solar Plexus Yellow in colour located a few inches above the navel in the solar plexus
area. Chakra concerned with digestive system, muscles, pancreas, and adrenals. Controls emotional
life feelings of power laughter, joy and anger are associated with this centre. Sensitivity ambition
and ability to achieve are stored here. Blockage may manifest as anger, frustration, and lack of
direction or sense of victimisation. Stones: Topaz, Citrine, Tiger’s eyes.
Chakra 4-The Heart centre Green colour located with in heart. It’s centre of love, compassion,
harmony, and peace. The 4th chakra relates to the elements of air in us. The power of sacrifice divine
love, it’s the home of maternal love. Any selfless act of giving without expectation of return comes
from heart centre. It’s the arena of kindness and compassion. Blockage can show itself as immune
system, lung and heart problems, or manifest as inhumanity, lack of compassion or unprincipled
behaviour. Stones: jade emerald rose quartz placed at the heart centre.
Chakra5- The Throat blue or turquoise in colour and located within the throat. It has to do with
power and impact of speech. The 5th chakra commands by word. It’s associated with neck,
shoulders, arms, hands, thyroid, and parathyroid glands. It is concern with the senses of inner and
outer hearing gives access to arena of knowledge, healing, transformation, purification. Blockage can
show us creative blocks, dishonesty or problems with communications Stones: Soladite, Turquoise.
Chakra 6 – The third Eye (or Brow Chakra) Indigo in colour located at the centre of your forehead at
eye level or slightly above. Here we can see unseen and know unknown. The 6th chakra gains us
access to, and increases our faculty of intuition. The 6th chakra is the place to set your goals and
assess the long-range effects of your actions. Your dreams for this life and recollections of other
lifetimes are held in this chakra. Blockage may be as problems like lack of foresight, mental rigidity,
selective memory, and depression. Stones: Opal, Azurite, Lapiz Lazuli
Chakra 7-The Crown Chakra Violet in colour located on top of our head. Associated with cerebral
cortex, central nervous system and the pituitary gland it is concerned with information,
understanding, acceptance and bliss. It’s place of connection to god the chakra of divine purpose
and personal destiny. Blockage can manifest as psychological problems. Stones: diamond, amethyst,
clear quartz.
The 8TH Chakra Aura. The 8th chakra is the magnetic field generated by vibrations of a human being.
Our aura surrounded us. It’s normally extended several feet in every direction. The quality and size
of aura revels a lot about the person. It is either a projection of power or it can reveal the weakness
and depression of defeat. The 8th chakra is our protective shield. It changes in colour, strength, and
size depending upon your general physical health and your moment to moment thoughts and
feelings.
How are stones placed to maximise benefits and client comfort?
Before applying the stone check the temperature of the heater then place a towel on the clients
back, ideally a hand towel. Remove stones place them on the couch ask client to breath in and when
they exhale place the stone on a lower back (root chakra) Then one on area of heart chakra (thoracic
region) and the last between the shoulder blades throat chakra (rhomboids) Fold the towel over the
stones to keep them warm and cover the clients with a large towel.
Remember that it is possible to burn client with cold stone too. If you remove the stone from the
cold box and place it straight onto the skin it can give a cold burn. If this were to happen, apply a
warm ( not hot ) moist cloth to ease the stone away.
What is the importance of the stone temperature during the treatment?
The right temperate is important because its take several hours to heat up tank and heat stones up
for 1,5 hours prior to treatment as they should hold the temperature during the treatment. You have
to turn over the stones as the body takes the heat.
How can the therapist adapt the stone therapy techniques to suit different clients?
Providing therapist to use your techniques wisely, have best interests of the client in mind, and the
treatment suitable for their physical characteristic, there is no set methods of working.
Effleurage – all the normal benefits of effleurage, such as spreading the oil warming the tissue are
gained using stones. The stone held flat in the hand. Use strokes with effleurage along the area to be
massaged first, then gradually turn the hand over to introduce the texture of the stone to the skin.
The gliding will introduce sensation to the client and also gives therapist time to judge the heat of
the stones. Remember to take care over bony areas and do more transverse effleurage – i.e. down
the body, working along the length of the muscle fibres.
Stroking – a superficial gliding stroke is often performed with the outer edge of the stone, which
reduces the amount of pressure applied, and it usually for finishing the movement at a lymph node
to aid drainage.
Combing/stripping- this is deep, intense stroke using the stone on its edge, working the muscle along
its entire length from its origin to its insertion. This helps pull the muscle fibres outward and
removes tension, best performed when stone has lost some of the heat, so use technique after first
round of effleurage and stroking.
Petrissaqe- all the effects of kneading, squeezes. Pressing and releasing of the tissue that you would
achieve with the hands you can do with a stones. Kneading movements can be very deep – always
checking with the client that they are comfortable. It not supports to be hurt! You don’t want to skin
bruising.
Friction- frictions can be stimulated with stones by using the edge of the stone, to give mild pressure
for a soothing feeling, or more concentrated pressure, to stimulate the nerve endings. This will
depend on clients – where they just need tensions released or deep tissue manipulation.
Alternatively you may miss this movement out altogether if clients want to sleep.
Vibration- Swedish massage (vibrations) can be achieved with the stones. Also it can be achieved by
rhythmical tapping of two stones together creating sound- one stay in contact and other taps at the
top. This causes a transfer of energy- mechanical energy to electrical vibration that penetrates
deeply in to the soft tissue. You should gently remind the clients of the noise. This method if highly
effective at removing tension knots.
Stone placing – the stones placed on or underneath the body, covered by towel to prevent burning.
Never place the stones directly onto the spinous processes of vertebrae or over bony area such as
scapula. Using placements before massage soften and prepares the tissues; placement after
massage continues the good relaxing work of the stones and keeps the heat in the muscles.
Holding- the heated stones can be held in the hands or used as a prop during the treatment for any
specific problems in any region. Choose a suitable sized stone to fit the area, and keep referring back
to the client to check they are comfortable.
Provide suitable cushioning and support as required.
How would you evaluate a stone therapy treatment and why?
A treatment is evaluated based on the client’s feedback including their physical and emotional
needs. These are listed examples of types of treatment to suit different clients and how they
should be carried out.
Relaxation – Is a type of massage best suited for the client who is nervous, suffering from insomnia
or has too much energy. To perform a relaxing massage it should be adapted in the following way:
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The tone in the voice needs to be calm and positive. It should be relaxing and unhurried.
The atmosphere should be set with the suitable temperature, relaxing music, with the lights
dimmed in a way that maintain privacy for the client.
The therapist should encourage the client to not talk and instead relax or sleep to get the full
effects of the treatment.
The client should be encouraged to practice deep breathing.
Effleurage and stroking techniques need to increase throughout the treatment.
Individual areas with tension should be focused on.
Every movement needs to be paced slowly.
The massage should be changed to work against the meridian flow.
The oils compatible with relaxing treatment are: chamomile, clary sage, geranium, lavender,
marjoram, neroli, rose, sandalwood, ylang ylang to be used during hot stone massage.
An evaluation of this treatment would rely on how relaxed the client felt afterwards and whether
they felt it was fully effective.
Uplifting – Is used for clients who are lethargic, lack motivation and do not have enough energy. For
an uplifting treatment should be changed in the following way:
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The massage should be applied in deeper and firmer movements.
Movements of effleurage and stroking should be reduced.
Movements of petrissage, pressure and stroking need to be increased.
The massage needs to be applied in a faster and invigorating manner than normal.
The essential oils with uplifting properties are: eucalyptus, grapefruit, lemon, lemongrass,
rosemary, tea tree using with hot stone massage.
An evaluation of this treatment would be on how much more energetic and awake the client felt
after receiving the massage and whether they felt it worked successfully.
Sense of wellbeing – The therapist should spend time with the client to talk about their lifestyle and
diet. In the talk the therapist can inform the client on the philosophy of holistic therapies, the
benefits of abdominal breathing and balance the meridians. Work on balancing the chakras using the
crystals and use hot stone for introducing client to holistic therapy. You may feel you need to
increase or decrease the client’s energy level as some clients have excess stress/energy and others
depleted levels.
Incorporate all movements from Swedish massage and use pressure points.
The following oils would be beneficial: chamomile, clary sage, geranium, lavender, neroli, rose
yalanq yalanq.
How can stone therapy be used to enhance other treatments?
Stone therapy can be applied to other holistic and beauty treatments. Stone can be used instead of
pad on your manicure work station. The client can enjoy the heat in the palm releasing tension while
you work on nails. Stones and crystals can be submerged in a manicure/pedicure bowl. Soaking the
hands and encourage the client play with stone stroke and twist them around fingers. Incorporate
the hot stones into hands massage and also to hold stone in their hand that is not being massaged.
Use stones to apply and massage the exfoliant into the hand.
Hot & Cold stones can be used in facials and Indian head to perform elements of massage.
Talking stones can be used in holistic therapy and applied so the clients can benefit from the heat
and spiritual energy.
Sports or Remedial massage deeper movement can be made with the hot stones to aid penetration
into muscular tension.
Hot stone massage will aid lymphatic drainage.
Stones can be used in the hands and under the neck, or either side of the spine.
Cold stones can help vasoconstriction and reduction of fluid retention.
Toe stones can be used instead of toes separation in a pedicure also can be used in pedicure bowls.
What is the recommended treatment time for a stone therapy treatment and when can it be
adapted?
The recommended treatment time for stone therapy massage is 1 hour and 30 minute it can be
adapted for client’s specific need.
There are several reasons why you might need to adapt your massage. These will become evident
whilst you are performing your consultation.
Relaxing massage used to relive stress and tension: avoid stimulating movements and use effleurage
movements. The pressure should be firmer and the rhythm slower. Hot stone massage will be very
beneficial for relaxation.
Tight or contracted muscles tapotement movement should be avoided, and slow and rhythmical
movements should be used to help stretch the muscles. Concentrate your massage application on
tension points like trapezius muscle.
Slack muscles elasticity of muscles has been lost and circulation needs to be improved. Deep
petrissage and stimulating tapotement movement should be used to help tone and firm area been
treated.
Massage for weight problem stimulating movement’s deep petrissage and tapotement should be
used in areas of excess fat and cellulite with increased pressure. This helps to mobilise the fat
deposits. Enterprise effleurage strokes to aid lymphatic drainage between massage manipulations.
The massage should be combined with low fat diet and exercise program.
Massage for male: muscles bulk in men is large and stronger than in women. The muscles are firmer;
the skin thicker and there is less fatty tissue. Avoid femoral triangle. If client is hairy select massage
medium that provides slip and avoids ‘’ dragging ‘’ body hair.
Older client: as the client ages the skin become thinner: bony areas may become more prominent
and possibly brittle and the skin reduces in elasticity and tone. Avoid over stimulating the skin,
unnecessarily stretching the skin and excessive pressure during massage application. Always check
with the client to ensure they are comfortable during the treatment.
Skin condition: If the clients have oily skin with pustules and papules present, avoid over-stimulating
the skin and select purified talk massage medium. If skin lack elasticity due to stretch marks or aged
skin avoids stretching massage manipulation and incorporate toning manipulation. Choice of
massage medium enhances the effect of the massage.
What is the recommended recovery time for a stone therapy treatment?
The recovery time for a stone massage therapy is 12 to 48 hours.
AFTERCARE AND HOMECARE
How would you evaluate a treatment?
It is vital to evaluate the treatment based both on the client’s feedback and your own thoughts of
how it went. The client may not always give back truthful feedback so you should make sure to
watch for visual clues. Depending on how you went and what the positives and negatives were of
the treatment you can adapt your technique for the better. In the next session with the client you
can suit their exact needs and receive better results. The satisfaction of clients increases your
turnover and profit.
You should be able to identify the effectiveness of the treatment by gaining feedback in visual,
verbal and written form. These can be acquired through a record card, questionnaire or a comments
box.
The visual signs you should look out for are:

Symptoms of erythema


Is the erythema patchy or even, if so the technique of the application should be changed to
suit the client
Be sure to observe the client’s body language when they return to the reception
The therapist should ask themselves these questions while observing their client:
-
Are the muscles softer and relaxed?
Is the skin softer and smoother?
Did the client appear relaxed during the treatment?
Did the client’s breathing appear deep and relaxed?
Did the client keep still through the treatment or did they constantly fidget?
Did the client seem more alert after the treatment?
Did the breathing of the client change to be deeper and more relaxed?
Questions you could ask the client can range from:
-
How does it feel?
Did you manage to fall asleep?
Did/Do you find any part of the massage uncomfortable?
How does/did the pressure feel?
Do you feel that we need to adapt the massage in any way for you next treatment?
Were you able to relax mentally?
Give 3 examples of post treatment restrictions:
Allergic reaction to the oil- obviously if the client had reaction to the oil you should act immediately
and remove it, apply a cool compress or the cold stones to the area and stop the treatment.
A healing crisis may also occur if the client has bottled up emotions and been over doing things has
high level of stress suffered bereavement or sorted up lots of negative energy. The treatment relaxes
the client so much that the blockage is removed. So the client may feel completely drained and
much tied. This is the body asking for rest and recuperation time. On next visit of the client ask them
about treatment reactions and make some note on record card.
The removal of toxins and emotional balancing ma also show as disturbed sleep, disturbed digestion,
upset tummy, irregular bowel movements and bloatedness .All these are sign of rebalancing and the
body ridding itself of toxic build up.
Once the client is prepared for this to happen and gives in to it with rest, and you must explain that
with regular treatments the balancing gets easier. The clients feel more centred and balanced and its
gives their whole outlook a lighter more positive feels.
What aftercare could you advise for your client?
-Make sure the client getting up after treatment slowly to allow the blood flow to the brain to
increase and so prevent any dizziness or fainting occurring.
-The client should be offered a glass of water after treatment and encouraged to drink lots of water
with in 24-48 hours.
-Avoid electrical or heat treatments for 12-24 hours.
-Avoid heavy mental stimulation where possible- ideally recommended that the client doesn’t go
back to work straight away after treatment.
-Avoid alcohol and spicy food for the remainder of the day.
-Avoid or minimise any stimulation such as loud music films, games.
-Take it easy rest id possible and sleep to restore the body balance.
What is homecare and what could you advise as homecare for your client?
Home care is long term aftercare advice. When giving out advice to the client on homecare it should
be specific and constructive to their needs. It’s important to realise each client will have different
lifestyle and schedules. The advice of a therapist can really help to find a balance for the client and
help to reduce stresses.
Homecare advice promotes the improvement of health both in the body and mind. A diet, exercise
and control over salt and alcohol intake can make a big change in how much easier the client can
relax. Smoking, alcohol and drugs are toxins and overstimulate the body, advising the client on
cutting down can make for a healthier balanced lifestyle.
It’s also vital to encourage the client to have positive thoughts. Negativity is a hard cycle to break
and can impact the client in daily life. To help they overcome this asking the client to name things
they enjoy and or good at like their hobby of favourite pastime can help to focus on positive aspects
of life.
Ways that the client can treat themselves at home are moisturising the skin and applying heat to
relax muscles, and or baths for enjoyment.
Other advice could include options like further treatments to promote health and well-being.
Examples are stone therapy and aromatherapy together, Indian head massage and or a Swedish
massage.
Comments:
Tutor sign: Lindsey
Student sign: Sardana Sanderson