throughout history shaman and medicine people have used the black stone or river rocks in healings. the native americans used heated stones in their sweat lodge rituals for purification purposes. many ancient civilizations such as the egyptians, toltecs, and aztecs built their temples and pyramids from stone. the list can on and on, but by honoring the powers of mother earth we as modern day healers can cultivate a deeper healing experience in body treatments. when we incorporate the use of aromatherapy and essential oils into any stone treatment we can increase the power, intention, and vibration of mother earth energies.

the physiological benefit of using hot & cold stones in a contemporary body treatment goes beyond measure. the use of thermotherapy has scientifically and medically been proven to aid our vascular system in a “flush” of sorts by opening and closing of the vessels, thus pushing the toxins out. our connective tissue, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, are all encouraged into a state of deep relaxation by utilizing specialized techniques of applying firm pressure, circular movements, tapping and holding of the stones. by the usage of prolonged contrasting neutral temperatures (warm and cool), the parasympathetic nervous system can be accessed, encouraging our internal environment to enter a profound healing state. when we adjunct the usage of pleasing essential oils by inhalation, we invite our limbic system to aid in the release of calming and balancing nuerochemicals in the brain. the idea of this treatment is to produce homeostasis and to create a balancing, tonifying effect on the body, mind, and spirit.

black basalt river rocks are used for the hot/warm portion of the treatment. they are considered the yang/male energy and represent stillness and rest. the shapes and sizes will fall into categories of soaps, tools, abdominal, sacral, and spinal stones. they should be tumbled smooth. the facial and toe stones should be polished and kept in nets in the roaster oven. the stone warmer can be a medium size crock pot or an 18 qt. roaster oven with a removable immersion pan. the stones will be arranged in a systematic layout for easy access during the treatment. the black basalt stones will be massaged and “tucked” on and around the body for additional warmth to the muscles. essential oils can be used to “charge” the stones w/ vibrational energy, as well as diffusing the oils for an enhanced effect.

marble stones are used for the cool application of this treatment. because they are white they hold the cold temperature longer. they represent the yin/female energy and help us connect to a heightened awareness and soft side of our spirit. they should be stored in an ice bucket in the freezer and taken out just prior to the treatment. they can be utilized in a massage sequence throughout the treatment, called a “chaser”. this is where the warm stone (right hand) chases the cool stone (left hand). for acute injuries and inflammation, compression and holding techniques are encouraged; utilizing anti-inflammatory essential oils at this time would also be beneficial.

this treatment has many physiological benefits, but it is its spiritual dimension that makes it so beautiful to give and receive. as a massage therapist, it should be considered a rhythmic dance, approached with grace and compassion, allowing for a re-connection to the roots of mother earth.