Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage Lesson

Hot stone massage is a form of thermotherapy that uses natural stones with high heat-retention properties to manually stimulate both superficial and deep tissues. In this course, you’ll learn about the physical and therapeutic properties of basalt, semi-precious stones, and marble – including how to choose, heat, and apply them during the treatment.

What you’ll learn – theory

• Understand the definition of hot stone massage – a manual therapy using warm, natural stones to relax muscles, reduce tension, and support detoxification.
• Explore the mechanism of action – how heat penetrates deeper tissues, enhances circulation, releases muscle tension, and improves lymphatic flow.
• Learn about the role of stones in Chinese medicine and their energetic impact on the body, emotions, and overall balance.
• Discover different stone types – basalt, marble, jade, semi-precious – and how they are used in treatment.
• Review the therapeutic properties of stones – heat retention, smooth surface, safety, and potential for cooling applications.
• Understand the effects of heat on the body and tissues – including muscle relaxation, faster metabolism, and better skin oxygenation.
• Learn how thermoregulation works – and the role of heat in restoring internal balance.
• Understand the function of thermoreceptors – skin receptors responsible for sensing warmth and cold.
• Review the structure of cells and tissues to better understand the skin and muscle response to heat therapy.
• Study the skeletal and muscular system – especially the most commonly treated areas.
• Explore skin anatomy and the lymphatic system – to enable precise, safe application during massage.
• Identify skin disorders that are contraindications or require tailored approaches.
• Master hot stone techniques – static and dynamic applications, stone pathways, and safe heat distribution.
• Learn how to choose massage oils – such as sweet almond, grapeseed, or jojoba – that work well with heat.
• Evaluate massage products based on ingredients, properties, and compatibility with warm treatments.
• Understand basic cosmetic chemistry – to select products that are safe and effective for all skin types.
• Review all contraindications – including cardiovascular conditions, cancer, inflammation, and pregnancy.
• Learn essential safety and hygiene principles – correct stone temperature, disinfection, towel replacement, hand hygiene.
• Understand the client qualification process – including health screening and skin assessment.
• Learn how to set up your workspace – from organizing stones to setting the massage table, lighting, and oils.
• Practice safety precautions – preventing burns, proper cooling, and client communication.
• Learn the full hot stone massage procedure step by step – from skin prep to post-treatment completion.
• Explore aftercare recommendations – including rest, hydration, and recovery time.

What you’ll learn – practice

• Learn how to prepare the treatment space – including heating the stones, organizing tools, and monitoring temperature.
• Get to know all required materials – stones, oils, towels, warmers, and post-massage care products.
• Perform the full hot stone massage procedure step by step – following ergonomic, safety, and client comfort standards.