SIBBSPA504A Resource Book Stone Therapy Massage

Stone therapy massage
Resource book
SIBBSPA504A Provide stone therapy massage
Unit Duration 4 weeks

Mode of delivery On Campus
Student Resource
01 2016 Stone massage therapy version 2
References
Battaglia, S; 2003; The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy; 2nd edition; The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy; Australia
Lish training manual
www.lithos.com.au
http://hawaiianhotstones.com.html
http://www.rubrocks.com
http://www.naturestonesinc.com
This document is the property of CNB and contains confidential information of CNB.
Copyright in the whole and every part of this document belongs to CNB and may not be used, sold, transferred, adapted or modified
or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner or form or in any media, to any persons other than in agreement with CNB.
Student Resource
Contents
Stone therapy background 1

Material properties of stones 2
Caring for stones 4
Consult with client 6
Contraindications _________________________________________ 7
Prepare client for treatment 11
Prepare stones & treatment area 12
Occupational health and safety (OHS) 14
Sydney essential oil company pre-blended oils_______________________ 15
Provide stone massage therapy 18
Script for stone massage 19
Sample client service card 20
Stone massage procedure 24
Post treatment care of stones 30
Dealing with adverse reactions 31
Provide post treatment care 32
Advise on further treatments & homecare 33
Diagrams of systems of the body
Skeletal system 35
Muscular system 36
Diagram of Skin 37
Glossary 38
Practical assessment criteria 39

Organic spa/ Eco tan homecare cheat sheet___________________________ 42
Student Resource
Stone therapy background
This is an ancient massage technique utilising the benefits of contrast therapy (alternating
hot and cold) or heat therapy (hot stone massage) or cold therapy. Hot, smooth volcanic
basalt stone with deep penetrating heat and cold marble stones are placed and used on the
body throughout the massage restoring physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Many cultures have used stones to indirectly heat the body – heated stones have been used
to warm cold beds before the advent of electric blankets and central heating. The Finnish
heat stone to warm the small enclosed area of the sauna and then water is added to increase
the humidity in the room. The Japanese and Chinese have used pointed stones in their
meridian and acupuncture treatments. Native North American nations used stones to roll on
the body to induce healing. Although all these cultures used stones in healing and health it
was not until the late 1990s that the use of stones was incorporated into massage therapies.
Since then the popularity of the treatment speaks to its effectiveness as a treatment modality.
Hot stone therapy is a useful addition to a massage therapist as it extends and enhances a
massage without causing stress on the therapist’s joints and muscles. The stones are usually
heated although cold stones are also used. Some therapists simply place the stones on the
client in selected areas and perform a relaxation massage. Other therapists massage with the
heated or cooled stones. The approach taken here is to incorporate both and describe a
technique that places stones on specific areas of the body and the use of heated or cooled
stones in the therapists hands to perform the massage movements. The best compliment you
can get is when a client says to you that they cannot tell the difference between your hands
and the stones when having a massage.
Stones can do a lot of the work of the massage – the weight and heat penetrate into soft
tissue in a way that you cannot achieve by massage alone. This makes your massage more
effective and softens and relaxes the muscles before you massage. Therefore you do not have
to expend as much energy and effort to get a similar outcome to a massage without stones.
Stones however cannot have the sensitivity of the hands or the ability to feel the state of the
soft tissue under your hands. Therefore the use of both hands and stones are necessary for a
good stone therapy massage.
Stone therapy massage is sometimes combined with other healing systems such as
Ayurvedic, meridian work, chakras and spirituality. The benefit of these approaches has not
been proven through scientific methods and you should exercise caution if discussing these
aspects of stone therapy with clients.
Different types of stones can be placed on the body in areas of significance to these
approaches and the selected stone has a healing effect. For example, chakras are points in
the body associated with physical or spiritual energy. Each chakra has a semi-precious stone
associated with it and these are placed on the chakra to enhance healing of the energy.
Stone therapy massage can be called many different names depending on the spa.
01 2016 Student Resource

Stone therapy massage version 2 1
Material properties of stones
When selecting stones for the massage you will be looking at the type of stone, the size and
shape and the texture and weight.
Types of stone
Geologists classify rock according to how it is formed:
 Igneus rock
 Sedimentary rock
 Metamorphic rock.
Igneous rock is formed from molten rock or magma. The formation process can be
beneath the earth’s surface in which case the rocks are referred to as intrusive igneous
rocks. If the formation process is on the earth’s surface through volcanic activity they are
called extrusive igneous rocks.
Intrusive igneous rocks are formed by a slow cooling process and the crystals within them
are large and prominent. The surface of the unpolished, natural rock is coarse. Granite is an
example of this type of rock. It has a narrow use in stone therapy with the main application
being the use of weathered stones of this type for exfoliation and cooling.
Extrusive igneous rocks are formed by volcanic activity and the lava cools quickly creating
crystals that are smaller and finely grained. The unpolished surface is relatively smooth.
Basalt which can range in colour from black to grey is a common extrusive igneous rock. The
stone is usually tumbled by river or sea water and is smooth. The colour of the rock is due to
the mineral content. For example, dark basalt has a higher content of elements such as iron
and magnesium. Basalt stones easily absorb and retain heat; it is a commonly found rock,
has an appealing range of colours and is relatively cheap. These factors make it the most
popular type of stone used in stone therapy.
Basalt rocks retain a record the earth’s magnetic field as it was when the rock was formed. It
is thought that this magnetic field varies in orientation and strength over the life of planet
earth. So the orientation and strength of the magnetic field at the time that your basalt rock
was formed can be analysed. For some that work in the stone therapy field these influences
are powerful and can have an effect on the body.
The next category of rock is sedimentary.This type of rock is formed by cementing grains
of mineral and rocks together. Sandstone and limestone are two examples of sedimentary
rock. This type of rock is soft and easily breaks. It is considered unreliable and is rarely used
in stone therapy.
The third category of rock is metamorphic. It is produced by chemical, temperature or
pressure forces which changes the original rock appearance, mineral content and texture.
The original rock may have been igneous or sedimentary. Metamorphic rocks have a wide
distribution and come in many colours. Examples of metamorphic rock used in stone
therapy are quartzite, slate, jadestone and marble. These rocks are dense, smooth and retain
heat or cold easily.
Quartzite is formed from sandstone that has been heated and recrystallised. It is smooth
and has a satiny sheen. It is often lined with straight or curved markings and can be very
attractive to look at. Brown, orange, red, brown, buff, green and black colours are reflections
of the mineral content of the stone. For example, gluaconite grains or ferrous iron can create
the green form of this rock.
Marble is formed by the recrystallisation of limestone or dolomite. If the original limestone
was nearly pure calcium carbonate, the marble will be white. However many other colours
exist and are influenced by the variation in the quantities of clay or sand in the original

stone. The original stone is not in a form that can be used in massage and it must be cut,
tumbled and shaped for use in massage. Marble is dense and smooth and easily retains heat
or cold.
Jade contains a wide variety of hard, green minerals. The colour will vary from deep green
to a greenish white. True jade consists of a higher quantity of jadeite (rare) and a lower
quantity of nephrite (more common). True jade is expensive and is not used commonly in
stone therapy. However jadestone with its higher content of nephrite is not as expensive and
therapists who use this stone may have one or two in their collection. Jadestone often has a
folklore surrounding it and is associated with mysticism and love. It is said to be relaxing and
balancing. Once polished it can be slippery so you need to use it with care.
Slate is formed from shale which is a sedimentary rock made from fine silts, clays and
grains of rock. It forms in plates or flakes and it easily splits into these when handled.
However pieces of slate can be large but light and this property means that they can be used
as placement stones for the stomach or sacrum. This is particularly apt when the client wants
the comfort and heat of the stone but does not want the weight.
Massage therapist who work with stones use the properties of magnetic energy, mineral
content, heat retention, texture and shape to choose stones.
Size and shape of stone
The size, shape and weight of the stones depends on what you use them for, the size of your
hands and the area of the body you will apply them to. You will develop a personal
preference for the different sizes and shapes. However, you will need a variety, as some will
be used for placement between toes (tiny stones) and others will be used to massage broad
areas such as the thighs (large stones).
The amount of stones you require will vary with your technique and experience. Most
therapists start with a base collection of around 30 which they can easily use as they get used
to this form of therapy. As your experience grows you may use up to 50 stones.
As your technique develops you will become adept in choosing the right stone for the client
and it will quickly become second nature to choose the correct stone. You will also develop
preferences for particular stones.
Texture
For both working (massage stones you use to massage with) and placement (stones that are
placed on the clients body) stones the texture must be smooth. Some therapists prefer stones
that are naturally smoothed by the action of river or sea water. Mechanically tumbled stones
are available but some therapists do not like them as they believe that the process of
smoothing of the stone alters its electromagnetic potential and healing capacity. In addition
mechanically tumbled stones can feel slippery in the hands especially when covered in oil. Of
course, marble and jade stones are the exception to this as they are not found in a natural
state that is suitable for use in stone therapy massage. Slightly textured stones can be useful
for exfoliation. Whether the stone is naturally smooth or machine tumbled will be a matter of
personal choice. Your preferences are individual and will change as you become proficient in
the techniques.
Most therapists will purchase stones from a supply company and then add hand collected
stones if that is their preference.

Caring for stones
Once you purchase a set of stones you never have to replace them. However you will have to
cure and care for them.
Curing is a process of steeping the stones in oil and applying heat. The oils coat the stone
structure and some of the oil is retained so that they only need a light coating each time you
use them. The process for doing this is:
 Wash stones in warm water
 Allow to dry overnight
 Oil stones with almond oil
 Bake in oven at 350oC for about 15 minutes
 Allow to cool overnight
 Oil stones again and cover
 In a few days oil the stones again
 Store for use.
Storing stones is best done by immersing them in clean water in the stone heater. This way
they do not dry out. There is no risk to the stone from the water and they are ready to be used
at any time – you just have to turn the heater on to give them adequate time to heat before
the massage.
Stones used for cold treatments should be stored in a covered plastic bowl filled with water.
If stones are not going to be used in the next 24 hours then place them on a clean towel and
allow to dry.
Cleaning stones must be carried out after every client. Cleanse with fresh water and an
antibacterial soap. Rinse and place back into the heating unit. Turn the heater on again and
boil the stones for a period of about 3 minutes. Then turn it down to the working
temperature.
Some stones can become sticky and these can be cleansed with alcohol. The water in the
heating unit only needs to be changed daily and you can add a sterilizing solution to it. At the
end of the day empty the heating unit of the stones. Place them on a dry clean towel and then
empty the

Benefits of hot and cold stone therapy
The application of heat to an area causes vasodilation and consequently an increase in the
blood circulating in the immediate area. Blood is drawn away from internal organs and
increased in the tissues that are warmed. This facilitates healing and the elimination of waste
materials.
The extra blood carries away some of the heat and warms the surrounding area. The soft
tissues are relaxed and muscle soreness and tension are relieved.
The benefits of hot stone therapy include:

 Helps muscles relax more quickly than a standard massage allowing you to work
more effectively on areas of concern to the client.
 Increases blood and lymph circulation to the area
 Relaxes muscles relieving minor aches and pains
 Soothes the nervous system
 Reduces stress
 Can ease tension headaches and menstrual pain.
The benefits of cold stone therapy include:
 Decreases inflammation and swelling
 Stimulates the nervous system
 Eases sinus congestion and pain
 Eases arthritis pain
 Can ease pain caused by strains and soft tissue injuries
 Blood moves away from the area and into surrounding tissues.
Many traditional spa therapies use contrast treatments. This is where the body is
alternatively heated and then cool. Most people are familiar with the concept of having a
sauna and then using a cold plunge pool. This type of treatment is extremely invigorating.
However, stone therapy can use this concept in a more localised area, vasodilation.
The benefits of contrast therapy are underpinned by the increase and then the decrease in
blood circulation in the part treated. This in effect creates a blood ‘pump’. The circulation of
blood and lymph is increased in the local area by the application of heat. This warmed blood
and lymph is then forced into the adjacent tissues by the application of the vasoconstriction
cold. The heat application is longer than the cold application.
The benefits of contrast treatments are:

 Increases blood in areas that have poor circulation
 Removes blood from areas that are hyperaemic
 Strengthens the circulation in the area treated.
 Vasoconstriction

Consult with client
Clients who come to you for stone therapy will have varying expectations and requirements.
Taking the time to discuss client expectations will assist you to create a professional image
where the client feels assured that you are demonstrating a genuine interest in their needs
and providing sound advice to meet these needs. Detailed client consultations are an
essential component of designing an appropriate spa program. You will need to review and
confirm the treatment plans of existing clients who have regular treatments. If the client is
new to this treatment you will need to develop a treatment plan for them. Ask new clients if
they have had any spa treatment before. This knowledge will assist you to make the client
feel comfortable and assured.
Reviewing and confirming a treatment plan for an existing client and collecting initial
information from a new client involves questioning the client carefully, actively listening and
taking note of their responses. Encourage the client to advise you on what they expect from
the stone therapy. At times you may find that you need to assist the client to further clarify
their expectations or requirements. This is part of offering a professional service. Ensure that
the client is not embarrassed to ask for changes to aspects of their treatment. When
discussing the treatment plan with your client, you should ask questions that require a
descriptive answer, rather than closed questions.
Once you have established or confirmed your client’s requirements, include this in the
development or adjustment of the spa treatment plan. Sometimes after talking to your client,
you may consider that a different condition is more in need of correction than that which
concerns the client. It is important not to overlook or dismiss your client’s priorities, or make
them unnecessarily concerned about conditions of which they were previously unaware.
As well as establishing the client expectations about treatment outcomes you need to tell the
client the cost of the treatment and the expected duration. There may be some clients where
cost is not a barrier to any treatment and treatment plans are only limited by the
expectations of the client and the considered recommendations of the therapist. However,
most clients will want to know the cost. Some clients may be on a restricted time frame and
you need to establish the time they have available for treatment at the outset.
Privacy and confidentiality

The information you collect from your clients may be of a sensitive nature and will require
the application of privacy principles. The client must be assured of confidentiality with
regard to all spa treatments. Any contra-indications or personal details should not be
discussed outside the service area, unless another beauty therapist’s professional opinion or
advice is being sought. The client’s permission should be obtained before discussing their
treatment with another beauty therapist.
Privacy during stone therapy is vital if the client is to relax and receive the full benefit.
Background music will not only help relax the client but will also aid privacy by muffling the
sound of conversation. Of course the music should not be too loud and must be appropriate.
Other beauty therapists should not interrupt the treatments unless essential. Professional
draping where areas of the body are exposed as they are worked on is an important part of
client privacy.
To ensure that the stone therapy you provide is appropriate for your client’s requirements
and is performed safely, it is essential that you collect, review and confirm the following
information:
 Contra-indications
 Medical history
 Allergies

 Lifestyle
Contraindications
Before beginning the stone therapy, you must identify any contra-indications and assess any
implications they might have for the treatment. Contra-indications are problems or
circumstances that may prevent beauty therapists from performing a treatment or service or
may signal that precautions need to be taken. You may not be able to provide the planned
stone therapy massage or you may have to adjust various aspects of the treatment such as the
products and techniques used. Contra-indications can change and develop between
treatments so you cannot assume that because an existing client did not display specific
contra-indications in the previous treatment, they will not do so in a subsequent treatment.
Record any changes on the treatment plan. Professional judgement must be used at all times.
Conditions that are not recognised by the beauty therapist or which require medical
treatment should be referred to an appropriate professional.
Contra- indications
The change in the body’s homeostasis from heat used in stone massage contra-
indicates the treatment to the following conditions;
 Nerve disorders, where the client suffers nerve damage and is unable to gauge the
heat of the stones, may be in danger of burns. Eg diabetics, muscular sclerosis,
Parkinson’s disease, Sciatica
 Circulatory disorders, such as heart disease, due to the pressure on the circulatory
system from extreme heat. Thrombosis (clotting in the blood vessel caused by
inflammation of leg or arm veins caused by prolonged inactivity, obesity, smoking,
HRT, birth control pills, pregnancy, cancer, or varicose veins.
 Immunosuppressive conditions, eg, HIV/cancer, where the immune system is
overworked and is not able to take any more pressure.
 Disorders of the brain and spinal cord, eg. Epilepsy, migraines, anxiety, depression as
the change in the blood pressure may trigger a seizure or episode.
 Pregnancy, circulation changes can upset the healthy environment for the foetus.
 Vascular disorders, varicose veins, telangiectasia(are widened venules (tiny blood
vessels) that cause red lines or patterns on the skin.)
 Skin disorders, as these will spread with the increased circulation.
 Haemophilia, mainly effects men, the bloods inability to clot.
 Hypertension –high blood pressure
 Hypotension- low blood pressure
Existing clients can be verbally asked questions which may jog their memory regarding
contraindications, such as:
“Have any changes occurred since your last visit, such as medications, injuries/operations?
Are you pregnant?”
In addition to body massage contra-indications add the following:
 Heat sensitivity: clients with impaired temperature sensation. An example would be
those affected by diabetes or Raynaud’s disease. Raynaud’s is a disorder of the blood
vessels that causes some areas of your body to feel numb and cool in response to cold
temperatures or stress. These areas will appear white. The client risks scalding or
frostbite as a result of temperature extremes. Both of these conditions are chronic.
 Be careful with clients with thin skin which is typically found in elderly clients. The
massage should be light and the heat should be lower.

 With pregnancy the client should have written medical permission before you
commence treatment. It is not usually recommended to be performed with
pregnancy.
 Clients with metal implants – avoid the implant area.
Medical history
Ensure you check and/or confirm your client’s medical history so that any techniques or
products used in the stone therapy do not exacerbate an existing condition. Medical
conditions involving the heart, circulatory problems, inflammatory or infectious skin
conditions or recent surgery or injuries need to be recorded as they may often be contra-
indicated.
Existing medical history, needs to be checked and discussed as this may exacerbate the
clients existing condition and make them quite sick. Diabetes, heart condition would result
in obtaining medical clearance and altering or not even going ahead with the treatment. A
suitable alternative may need to be offered to the client.
Previous medical history must be checked as well as the treatment may stimulate the
previous condition to return. Skin infection, surgery, would result in adapting the stone
massage to suit the client’s needs, avoiding the area, applying softer pressure.
Medication the client may be taking may also affect the client during and after the
treatment. Certain medications may even put the client at risk, lessening their sense of
feeling. This becomes a problem as you are now treating a client who is not able to feel the
true intensity of the heat of the stone or feel the weight of the stones, therefore not being able
to give you safe, accurate feedback.
Allergies or adverse reactions
During the stone therapy, the skin may react to the products or techniques used. This is
referred to as an adverse reaction. For stone therapy, these reactions may include the
following:
• Extreme erythema arising from the client becoming overheated or an area becoming
overheated.
• Skin blemishes due to massage stimulation
• Allergic reactions of the skin or body to treatments or products
• Psychological reactions of the client to treatments who may feel claustrophobic
• Conditions which indicate client referral to a medical practitioner or other
professional.
Check and confirm any allergies that your client may suffer from so that the cosmetic
ingredients in any of the products used in the stone therapy do not trigger any reactions.
Even where you have carefully checked contraindications and allergies before commencing
the treatment, some reactions may occur which could not have been anticipated. There may
be unexpected reactions over which you have no control. Occasionally a reaction will occur to
a product or technique which has been used many times in the past with no problems. If this
occurs, you need to re-evaluate the treatment. You may be able to provide an alternative
treatment. If in doubt, stop the treatment immediately.
Lifestyle
Collecting information about lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exposure to stress, exercise,
different types of environment will have an impact on the treatment you recommend and the
treatment objectives you identify.

After-stone therapy activity – talk to your client about what they plan to do after the
treatment.For example, if the client has to do a presentation at the end of the day this will
affect the stone therapy routine you select and the timing of the treatment.
Temperature tolerance – some clients do not feel well when exposed for a long time to
heat. You need to ask them what their tolerance is to hot or cold temperatures.
Treatment needs – these can also be called indications for treatment. At this stage you
know what the client expects, you know the contraindications to treatment and you have
talked to the client about their lifestyle. You may have looked at the treatment site, for
example, the client has indicated that they have tense neck muscles and you may have
checked the area during your discussion of this.
From all this information you will get a list of potential indications for treatment. This is a
prioritised list agreed between the client and you of what can and should be treated.
Indications for stone therapy treatment include:
• stress reduction and deep relaxation
• chronic muscle tightness
• low back pain
• general aches and pains
• chest or sinus congestion
• non-inflammatory arthritis, joint conditions and pain
• headache
• insomnia
• pre-menstrual symptoms.
Role of therapist-
 Is to help the client
 Customise the treatment to suit the client’s needs
 Treatment may be a process of elimination to help the client achieve the
expected result. You cannot be expected to achieve the client’s desired result in
one treatment.
 You may need to incorporate both hot and cold stones in your massage.
 The role of the therapist is also to create an amazing experience for the client.
This will make the client want to come back to your salon and re book with you
for another massage.
Current body homecare
Finding out the types or products client’s use at home can help you understand their level of
sensitivity to products, how well they look after their skin, if they are using the appropriate
product for their concern/skin type. Inquire about the frequency they use it and whether
they notice an improvement in the condition of their skin. This type of questioning can lead
into suggesting more appropriate products for their skin, which you may recommend once
the treatment is complete.
 Exfoliants
 Salts
 Body brushes
 Exfoliating gloves/ mitts
 Body oils, butter, mouse
 Moisturiser, milk
 Body wash/ gel

The above are all products that the client may use depending on your professional
recommendation as well as the in house product that you retail.
Outcomes of previous body treatments
Ask your client what their last body treatment was and how it made them feel. It can help
you to understand what they enjoyed or what they did not. They may tell you, for example
that they found their last massage treatment relaxing, but would have preferred more time
focused on the feet. This will allow you to adjust your treatment or recommend an additional
service such as reflexology relaxation techniques. It may also allow you to make a
recommendation for a different type of service which may better target their needs in
conjunction with a stone therapy massage.
Another example is that you may have a client that has extremely ticklish feet. Her feedback
to you would be that she loved the massage but would prefer to not have her feet done. Again
you will be able to adjust the massage to not include the feet. This will keep your client happy
and comfortable.
You may have a client that has a very stiff neck and shoulder area, she may request that you
spend more time working on that area next time she is in.
Once you have collected all the required information, you must devise a treatment plan,
which is also to be verbalised to the client. The client’s consent needs to obtained at this
point via signature and dated.

Prepare client for treatment
When performing stone therapy, it is important to create the correct atmosphere to assist the
client to relax. The spa service area should be clean, inviting and tranquil, creating a
professional image. This environment will help to ensure that the client returns for
successive treatments.
The care, skill and thoroughness of the spa therapist will ensure the feeling of wellbeing
continues throughout the sequence of treatments. Care should be taken to fulfil the client’s
expectations as far as possible, endeavouring to assist the client to achieve their treatment
objective. The client should be led to a private change area where they can prepare for their
treatment. A robe may be provided for use between change rooms and service areas. Usually
spa service areas are laid out so that facilities and equipment are in close proximity to each
other.
In general, most spa treatments are effectively performed if the client undresses completely.
Many salons also offer their clients disposable underwear. Clients who have never
experienced a stone therapy need to be reassured that their privacy will be maintained at all
times. Sometimes this is done by asking the client if there are areas of the body they do not
want massaged. If you observe that a client is noticeably uncomfortable offer them the
option of wearing disposable underwear. Clients from some cultural backgrounds may find it
unacceptable to expose parts of their body to a stranger. Client preferences must be
respected and treated with tact and discretion.
Jewellery should be removed and ideally placed into the client’s bag. The bag should then be
placed in a locker or a secure area.
For stone therapy you can keep the client’s body covered or draped and only expose the area
being worked on. This makes the client feel more secure, warm and therefore relaxed. If the
client is having a facial as part of the stone therapy sequence, a headband should be secured
around the client’s hairline. This may need to be removed at the appropriate time if a scalp
massage is part of the treatment sequence.
Show the client to the change area or to the treatment room. Give her or him clear
instructions about what to remove and what to do next. For example, ‘I am going to
leave the room while you change for the massage. There is a basket here
that you can pop your clothes and belongings into. You just need to take
off all your clothing , leave your underwear on and then get up on the
treatment table, lying face down and cover yourself with this towel’.
Before commencing the spa treatment, check the client’s comfort. This includes checking
that the client’s temperature level is comfortable. Cushions or rolled towels can be placed
behind the head or under the back of their knees, where this is appropriate. The client’s
comfort should be checked at regular intervals throughout the treatment.

Prepare stones and treatment area
The treatment area should be well prepared for massage and enhance its benefits. You will
want to consider:
 temperature of the room
 privacy of the room
 music
 aroma
 lighting
 hygiene and health regulations
 occupational health and safety considerations
 professional presentation.
Temperature of the room – you will want it to be warm enough for the client so that they
do not feel cold during the treatment. Warmth is necessary for the muscles to relax.
However, you also need to be considered in this and if the area is too warm you will end up
perspiring and this can lead to other problems like sweaty hands.
The privacy of the room – every care should be taken not to interrupt a stone therapy
service. The client should be left alone to undress and get on the massage table and cover
themselves with the provided towels. The room should be in the quietest area of the spa
however it should not be isolated. This is an important consideration when working with
clients of the opposite gender to you.
Music – this can simply mask the other noises in and around the spa or it can be carefully
chosen in conjunction with the client. Some clients want no music at all; some may like the
sound of natural settings such as the ocean or the forest. If at all possible allow the client to
choose the background music.
Aroma – a fresh, pleasant aroma enhances a professional approach. Some spas use
aromatherapy oils for different effects. Stone therapy rooms need to be well ventilated and
after a massage the room should be aired to get rid of anybody odours from the client. You
will also work hard during the massage so attention to personal hygiene is important.
Lighting – subdued lighting which allows the client to relax is important. Some spas choose
coloured lighting for different effects.
Health and hygiene - It is important to maintain a high level of hygiene during body
treatments due to the ease with which cross-infection can occur. Consequently, whenever
possible single-use products should be used and disposed of at the end of the treatment.
Before starting a treatment always protect the service area to suit the treatment. Working
with oily massage mediums, for example, can cause staining which is difficult to remove
from salon furnishings. Massage tables are usually covered in leather or vinyl which is easily
cleaned after each client. Some salons have a fitted sheet that goes over the table and then
clean massage towels or drapes are put on top for each client.
Ensure that you are organised and have all that you require in order to perform your treatment
in a safe, efficient and professional manner.

Steps to prepare the stones
 Sort the stones into the order that you will need them. For example, if you are
doing a standard stone therapy treatment you may have a bag of stones that are
to be used on the legs, one for the back and so on. Place these bags of stones into
the heater in the opposite order of use. This ensures that the stones that are to be
used last are at the bottom of the heater, and those to be used first are on top of
the pile.
 Proper placement of the stones ensures that you know where the stones are
located and can easily retrieve them, it also ensures that they are heated evenly.
 Some therapists will organise the stones according to size and place them
directly into the stone heater. This approach generally comes with more
experienced therapists.
 Place sanitised stones in heater, cover with water
 turn the heater to between 53-55◦C or 117-120◦F
 If using cold stones, place them in freezer or in ice water, the temperature should
just above freezing when you use them. Alternatively have a bowl of cold water
nearby to dip your stones into.
 Place hand towel near heater for drying stones as you remove them
 Have spare towels available near the heater. These are used to carry heated or
chilled stones to the area of the client that is being worked on.
Working temperature is 530C. You must monitor the temperature at all times. If stones
become too hot, simply turn the dial to a lower setting or add cold water to quickly bring the
temperature down.

Working temperature for the above unit 117- 120 o F

Hot stone set up in the heater.
Stones are organised in this manner to enable you to work methodically through your
massage.
Cold stone setup.
Stones are prepared in a bowl of cold water. Stones are used in between hot placement
stones.

Occupation health and safety (OHS)
This concerns both you and your employer. The quality of the treatment table is important. It
should be sturdy and not move when you are massaging. The height is important for you as it
should be suitable for you, so that you can maintain good body position. A height adjustable
table is preferable as you will be able to alter the height according to your own and to the size
of the client. Some height adjustable tables are electric, which means you can alter the height
during the massage according to the different massage movements you are performing.
Always assist your client off the massage table.
Width of the table – this should be narrow enough so that you can reach the client easily but
wide enough to accommodate the client comfortably.
Length – the standard size is around 1.8 metres. Some tables allow for the addition of a face
cradle, which allows you to extend the table for tall clients.
The table should be padded so that the client can lie on it comfortably, but it should not be
too soft that you cannot get good pressure into the soft tissue.
Professional presentation – a room that is colour co-ordinated, uncluttered and clean is

required. Extra towels and gowns can be stored in the room, so that there is no need to leave
the room during the treatment.
Wipe any oil or water spills from the floor so that your client does not slip and hurt herself or
the therapist does not slip. Wipe the clients feet from the massage oil, this prevents any slips
or falls.
Stone size- choose the appropriate stone size to be comfortable for the client or to be
comfortable for you to perform the massage in a safe and comfortable manner. Avoid any
bony areas as this will be very uncomfortable for the clients, in particular elderly clients.
All required tools, equipment and products should be prepared before starting the treatment.
Once treatment has started you should not have to leave the client while you go to find the
tools, equipment or products that you need. This creates an unprofessional image and
unnecessarily prolongs the treatment time.
Health regulations in a salon
Within each State and Territory, there is a set of health and hygiene regulations that apply to
anyone operating in the personal services industry. Every salon must follow their individual
State or Territory legislation when performing beauty treatments. This legislation is in place
to protect both you and your client from cross infection. Effective hygiene practices are
necessary in the spa to prevent cross infection and secondary infection. Cross infections can
occur through poor practice, such as the use of equipment that is not sanitised. Micro-
organisms are then present and may be transferred through personal contact, by touch, or by
contact with infected instruments or towels that have not been sanitised.
Sanitisation procedures are used to minimise or destroy harmful micro-organisms that can
cause cross infection, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Sydney Essential Oil Company Pre-blended Oils
Sports Blend
Eucalyptus Radiata
Extraction: steam-distilled from the fresh or partially dried leaves.
Benefits: muscle tension, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, analgesic,

antibacterial, diuretic
Contraindications: Toxic when ingested,
Rosemary
Extraction: steam-distilled from the leaves, flowers and twigs
Benefits: Good for overworked muscles, arthritis, concentration pregnancy

respiratory conditions, stimulates hair growth and preventing dandruff.
Contraindications: pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure
Lemongrass
Extraction: steam-distilled from fresh or partly dried leaves
Benefits: the connective tissue oil as it tightens the elastin fibres in the
epidermis, good for after sport care, energizing, skin tonic, concentration,
indigestion
Contraindications: Pregnancy, skin irritations
Cajeput
Extraction: steam-distilled from the fresh leaves and twigs
Benefits: painful muscles, sport injuries, alleviating fatigue, oily skin, sore throats,
gastric spasms
Contraindications: Skin irritations
Peppermint
Extraction: steamed-distilled from partially dried herb
Benefits: muscle and joint pain, bruises, headaches, skin irritations, sinus
infections, nausea
Contraindications: Pregnancy, children, on the face

Purifying Blend
Grapefruit pink
Extraction: Expressed from the peels of the grapefruit
Benefits: Oily skin and acne, cleanses the liver, lymphatic stimulant, cellulitis,
water retention, tonic for skin and hair, good for stress
Contraindications: N/A
Rosemary
Extraction: steam-distilled from the leaves, flowers and twigs
Benefits: Good for overworked muscles, arthritis, concentration pregnancy,

respiratory conditions, stimulates hair growth and preventing dandruff.
Contraindications: pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure
Fennel Sweet
Extraction: produced from the distillation of the crushed seeds
Benefits: flatulence and other digestive problems, diuretic, painful period, upper
respiratory tract, urinary tract antiseptic, dull oily skin
Contraindications: Epilepsy and pregnancy
Juniperberry
Extractions: Steam-distilled from the crushed, dried or partly dried ripe berries.
Benefits: clears toxins, cellulite, cystitis, digestion, diarrhoea, intellectual fatigue,

poor circulation
Contraindications: pregnancy, kidney disease.
Carrot Seed
Extraction: steam-distilled from the dried seed of the wild carrot.
Benefits: Regenerator of liver cells, diuretic properties, skin rashes, wrinkles, cellular
regenerator for the skin.

Harmony Blend
Orange Sweet
Extraction: cold-pressed from the ripe or almost ripe outer peel of the orange fruit
Benefits: Self- doubt, fear, gives warmth and joy to all, stimulate lymph fluid,
digestive cramping, and calming children and adults.
Lavender Maillette
Extraction: steam-distilled from freshly cut flowering tops and stalks.
Benefits: Works in two ways-either stimulating or lifting the spirits or sedating mental and
emotional conditions, headaches, colds, anti-spasmodic
Considerations: Low blood pressure
Geranium
Extraction: steam distilled from the leaves and branches
Benefits: Regulates the nervous system, depression, PMS , good for dry, oily and
combinations skin wounds and bruising
Considerations: can cause sensitivity with dermatitis
Ylang Ylang
Extraction: Steam distilled from flowers.
Benefits: balances male/female energy, combats low self-esteem, focuses

thought, hair loss, intestinal problem, vasodilating
Contraindications: Low Blood Pressure
Chamomile Roman
Extraction: distilled from the flowering tops
Benefits: good for children, alleviating anxiety and stress, migraines, sensitive
skin, insomnia, calming down the breath

Aesthetic aromatic cheat sheet
Blends Sports Purifying Harmony

Ingredients Eucalyptus Grapefruit pink Sweet orange
Radiata Rosemary Lavender
Rosemary Sweet fennel Maillette
Lemongrass Juniperberry Geranium
Cajeput Carrot seed Ylang ylang
Peppermint Roman
Chamomile
Effects Anti- Liver cleansing Warming
inflammatory Stimulates Stimulating
Decongestant lymphatics Uplifting
Eases muscle Concentration Anti spasmodic
tension Arthritis PMS
Alleviates Diuretic Depression
fatigue Digestive Migraines
Good for bruises problems Anxiety
Headaches Cystitis
Energising Celleulite
Tightens elastin Flatulence
fibres in
epidermis
Contra- Pregnancy Pregnancy Dermatitis
indications Epilepsy Epilepsy Low blood
Skin irritations High blood pressure
High blood pressure
pressure Kidney disease

Provide stone massage therapy
It is assumed in the following information that you already know how to complete a basic
body massage routine.
Stone therapy massage involves the placement of stones to pre-warm areas and massaging
with stones. Once you become skilled at placing the stones and massaging with the stones
the routine will become seamless. The stones become an extension of your hands and add
heat and texture to the massage.
Placement stones are placed on the body dry, when the client exhales and taken off the body
when they inhale. You will need to judge the placement according to the size of the client.
Ensure that the size of the stone is suitable for the size of the client as otherwise the client
may feel claustrophobic due to the stones being too heavy. The temperature of the stones
should not be too hot and when lying the client down on the stones you should place a cotton
towel between the stones and the client.
Stones may at times need to be adjusted, monitor your client throughout the treatment to
ensure that the client is and remains comfortable.
The working stones should become your tools enhancing the massage and allowing the
weight, shape, smoothness and heat of the stones to do some of the massage work for you.
Just as in massage, you should be mindful of your posture, bending your knees to get the
right position rather than bending your back.
The working (massaging) stones should be placed in your palm and your fingers should
enclose the stone. Do not hold the stone with your fingers when massaging. This places extra
strain on your hands and over time this could strain your hands and wrists.
When you get to the end of the massage stroke you can flip the stone so that the warmer side
of the stone comes into contact with the client’s skin.
The temperature of the stones needs to be carefully controlled. When they are first taken out
of the water they may be too hot to apply to the skin. Have a bowl of cold water ready on your
trolley so that you can dip the stones in quickly in order to cool them so as they are not too
hot for the client. Or alternatively you may rest the stones for a few moments on a towel and
add them to the massage when you judge the temperature is correct. Throughout the mas-
sage you should check with the client as to whether the temperature of the stones is correct
for them. If you incorporate cold stones into the routine you should warn the client before
you place them. Ask the client to breathe out as you apply the stone. In this way the client’s
attention is focussed on the breath and on relaxation.
Fill the heater with the stones in the correct order. Each heater is different and you will need
to become familiar with the time it takes to reach the correct temperature. You need to
ensure that the stones are ready when you commence the massage.
To heat the massage oil you can add the bottle to the heater.
Getting the stones to the right temperature will take about 35 minutes.
Below is sample of a procedure for the application of stone therapy treatment.

Script for stone massage
Today l will be performing a Stone therapy massage. This is a beautiful

combination of relaxation massage and the use of hot and/or cold
stones. Stone therapy assists in creating a wonderful balance of mind
and body by using the heat from the stones. Stone therapy also helps to
relax, reduce tension and helps ease muscle aches and pains. To help
relax you for your treatment and to balance the body, I’ll place some
warm stones along your spine. I will be massaging the back of the legs,
the back, neck and shoulders, moving to the front of the legs, abdomen,
arms and décolletage.
Your treatment time here at the CNB for your massage today will take
one hour.
To personalise your treatment, you may choose an essential oil blends to

enhance your massage.

Client Service Card
Hot Stone Massage Date
Name Therapist
□ Contraindications/Safety Precautions checked

□ Medical form checked/updated
Contraindications requiring medical permission:
□Pregnancy
□Cardio vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, hypotension, heart
conditions)
□ Haemophilia □Recent operations
□ Epilepsy □Trapped or pinched nerve( sciatica)
□Asthma □Diabetes
□Motor Neurone disease ( Parkinson’s, MS )
Contraindications that restrict treatment:
□Fever □Open wounds, skin lesions
□Thrombosis, Inflamed Varicose veins □Recent surgery/ recent scars
□Contagious skin infections □Severe bruising
□Sunburn □Broken bones
□Under the influence of recreational drugs/ alcohol
□Undiagnosed lumps and bumps
□Thin bony clients □Thin fragile overstretched skin
Details relevant to treatment
Muscular/Skeletal problems: Back Aches/Pain Stiff joints Headaches
Digestive problems: Constipation Bloating Liver/Gall bladder Stomach
Circulation: Heart Blood pressure Fluid retention Tired legs Varicose veins
Cellulite Kidney problems Cold hands and feet
Gynaecological: Irregular periods P.M.T Menopause H.R.T Pill Coil Other
Nervous system: Migraine Tension Stress Depression
Immune system: Prone to infections Sore throats Colds Chest Sinuses
Regular antibiotic/medication taken? Yes No If yes, which ones
Herbal remedies taken? Yes No If yes, which ones
Ability to relax: Good Moderate Poor
Sleep patterns: Good Poor Average No. of hours
Do you work at a computer? Yes No If yes how many hours
Do you exercise? None Occasional Irregular Regular Types
Concerns/Goals/Objectives
Nutrition
Meals/day Water intake L/day
Alcohol intake glasses/wk
Are you a smoker? Y/N Healthy & balanced diet? Y/N
Dietary comments
Outcomes of Previous Body Treatments

Current Body Home Care
Product Type Comments/Observations
Body Wash/Cleanser
Exfoliant
Body Moisturiser
Body Oil/Serum
Treatment Duration Cost

Primary Objective/Condition to be treated
Additional Objectives/Conditions to be treated

Massage Medium
Oil Preblend
Client Consent
The proposed treatment has been explained to me and I consent to the treatment as
discussed.
Client Signature: Date:
Post-treatment Evaluation
Results Achieved
Variations to treatment plan
Therapist observations
Adverse effects
____________________________
Client’s feedback _____

Further Treatment/Homecare
Product Recommendation
Types of treatments/frequency
Homecare advice
Diet advice
Lifestyle advice
Supervisor comments
Supervisor signature

Stone Massage Procedure
Preparation
Equipment/Products -
 1 disposable fitting sheet
 1 disposable pillowcase
 1 Bouffant Cap
 1 large towel for face hole
 2 small towels in Hot Towel Cabinet (to wipe feet before and after treatment)
 2 small towels under feet (to wrap)
 1 bolster
 2 large towels covering client
 1 pillow (optional)
 1 large towel on tray to dry stones
 1 eye pillow to cover eyes/ tissue
 Antiseptic Essential Soak
 Basket- for clients clothes
 Tint bowl for jewellery
 Client Record Card/Body Treatment Card/Clipboard/Pen
 Hydro-dispersible Massage Oil/Holster
 Essential oil/ optional
 Grey plastic bowl ½ filled with cold water
 2 x mesh stone bags
 Thermometer
 Bain marie
 Pre-blended essential oils
 Hand sanitizer
 Glass of water for client
Stones – place in order

1 x Extra-large stone(XL); 2 x large stones (L)
3 x Placement (P) Stones (1 Sacral, 2 Spine/Back in bag)
4 x Cold Stones (CS) (2 x small (SCS); 2 x medium (MCS))
8 x Medium Stones (M)
6 x Small Stones (S)
2 x Pens
2 x Foot/Toe Placement Sets (1 Small & 4 Toe Placements each - in bag)
Heating Unit/Trolley/Stone Utensil/Tray/Thermometer/Jug
Set up stones – in black bain marie

 1 jugs hot water in base unit
 Float top unit with stones in
 Cover 1 cm over stones with hot water approximately 2 jugs of water
 Position trolley/plug in/switch on
 Set temperature at 120⁰F
 thermometer, put in water
 Allow to heat to approximately 53ºF (Lish) or 50ºF (Lithos)
 Do not put lids on, keep checking temperature, adjust as required
Silver unit:
 2 jugs water
 Cover stones with hot urn water/ cold water
 Position trolley/plug in/switch on
 Set temperature at 120⁰F

 thermometer, put in water
 Allow to heat to reach 50ºF
 Settle temperature at the dial to 100⁰F
 Monitor stone temperature whilst performing treatment
Treatment Area Preparation -

Prepare bed with towels, have additional towels at hand
Create desired ambience (Soft lighting, relaxing music, aromatherapy etc.)
Ensure client’s privacy with curtains, screens etc.
PROCEDURE
 Greet client, perform Consultation, devise Treatment Plan, obtain Client’s consent
 Escort client to treatment area
 Advise client to remove clothing/jewellery except underpants; apply bouffant cap; lie
on stomach with large towel across back
 Leave client to undress, wash hands, obtain hot towel from Hot Towel Cabinet,
sprinkle with few drops of Antiseptic Essential Soak
 Re-enter treatment area when client is ready, re-arrange towel lengthwise over client,
wipe client’s feet with hot towel
PRE-TREATMENT 3 placements – 3 mins
Abdominal breathing x3, stroke, pause
Rock Client, stroke, pause
Remove Placement Stones from heater, (no oil) wrap in towel
Stone Placement on Back (depending on the size of back) Place one drop of pre-
blended essential oil on largest hot placement stone
 1 XL (Sacral/Naval Placement) - rub across with hand, rub with stone, place
 2 L (Spine/Back/Sternum Placements) - rub across with hand, rub with stone, place
Cover with hand towel

 2 x cold stones in between hot stones
BACK OF LEG 1M stones – approx. 12 mins
Remove 1M stone from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel at foot

Uncover left leg
1. Effleurage x3 - ankle to buttocks/gluteals, lifting under knee, ending over toes
2. Kneading x3 - ankle to buttocks/gluteals
Pick up stone
3. Circles on heel x3 introduce stone
4. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, firm pressure, ankle to buttocks/gluteals, skip over back of
knee, turn stone, return
5. Stripping on calf/gastrocnemius x3 - ankle to knee, deep sliding with side of stone,
outside/lateral to inside/medial, turn stone, return by gliding down with flat stone x3
6. Circle up middle of calf, to just below back of knee, flip stone , glide down to ankle x3
Glide up to back of knee
7. Circles on back knee x3 - flat stone, clockwise
8. Stripping on back of thigh/hamstring x3 - knee to buttocks/gluteals, deep sliding with
side of stone, outside/lateral to inside/medial, turn stone, return
Glide up to outer/upper thigh

9. Circles on outer/upper thigh x3 - other hand supports, clockwise, side of stone , lateral ,
middle , medial x3
10. Side pull, side pushes x3
11. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, firm pressure, ankle to buttocks/gluteals, skip over back of
knee, turn stone, return
12. Glide over heel, thumb protects, stone on arch of foot, wrap foot with towel
13. Cover left leg with towel
Remove 1M from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel at foot

Repeat sequence on right leg
Remove Spine/Back placement (pressure, reverse placement procedure)

Place in heater for stomach
Cold stones in bowl
BACK 2M stones (working one side at a time) – approx. 15 mins
Remove 2M from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel on tray

Remove towel from back, place aside for front of body
Fold lower towel down to uncover back and top section of the buttocks
Stand at client’s side
Effleurage x3 no stones - flat palms, moving up spine, across the top of the shoulders,
around the deltoid muscle and back down the sides of the body to begin again
Pick up 1M stone
1. Half rowing stroke to the back x 3. One hand with stone beneath the other hand, place on
the paraspinal muscles of the low back on the same side to which the therapist is
standing. Lunge forward and apply pressure gliding over the paraspinal muscles to the
shoulder (change hands at top of spine so stone is not gliding over bony areas), move
across the shoulder around the deltoid and back down the side of the body to start again.
2. Hand after hand to the back x 3. One hand glides up the back for a short distance
followed by the other hand. At the shoulder both hands come together in the reinforced
position and glide down the side of the body to return to the starting position
3. Long hand after hand to the back x 3. One hand glides up the back to the shoulder once it
has reached the shoulder the other hand starts at the lower back and also glides up the
back.
4. Reinforced circular kneading along the paraspinal muscles x 3. Using the edge / side of
the stone, move in a small circles up towards shoulder . Pressure of the stroke is even as
you circle upwards.. At the shoulder, place one hand in the reinforced position & glide
down the side of the body to the starting position, repeat move.
5. Pick up second stone, temperature test. Flat stones, circle up paraspinals to trapezius.
Pick up trapezius, stretch , release and glide down to lumbar area. Flip stone and repeat
x3
6. Place cooler stone down , work buttock area with warmer stone.
BUTTOCKS 1 M STONE
Pick up other 1M stone
1. Reinforced circular kneading over the buttocks x 3. The Therapist hands are on top
of each other whilst performing a variety of broad and small circular movements with
the stone in clockwise direction.
2. Wide stand, Side pulls to the back x 3. Both hands reach across the client’s body to
the opposite side of the waist. Glide one hand across the client’s lower back towards
the midline. The other hand begins the same action alternating hands, place stone
down.
3. 2 x reversed effleurage, hands only

Place used stones on tray.
Collect another 2M stones from heater
REPEAT BACK AND BUTTOCKS STEPS ON OTHER SIDE
OCCIPITAL 2 Pens
Remove 2 Pens from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel on tray

1. Kneading on neck x3, with occipital stretch - to apply oil to neck
Pick up pens
2. Circles on shoulders x3 - long side
3. Strokes x3 –like hand after hand, thick ends, occipital down along shoulders and back,
different lines
4. Circles x6 - thick ends, occipital down along shoulders and back, different lines, go lower
in centre beside spine
5. On last line of circles, circle down paraspinals to hip, flatten stones
6. Effleurage x1, zigzag movements up from hips, out over shoulders, down to elbows.
Place pens in basket
Remove stones from feet (pressure, reverse placement procedure)
Place stones used on feet in basket
CLIENT ROLLS OVER SUPINE POSITION – 3mins (including placement)

Move large towel back up to fully cover client
Lift side of large towel as client turns
Place other large towel across chest and arms
Reposition foot towels under feet
Support neck with rolled towel/pillow
Support under knees with pillow (optional)
Cover eyes with hand towel/ tissue
PLACE ONE HAND ON ABDOMEN AND THE OTHE ON THE CHEST – ask client
to take a few deep breaths
STONE PLACEMENT ON STOMACH - Same stones used for back placement.

Place one drop of essential oil on each placement stone
 1 XL (Sacral/Naval Placement) under naval - rub across with hand, rub with stone,
place
 2/3 L (Spine/Back/Sternum Placements) along sternum - rub across with hand, rub
with stone, place
 Cold stone placement in between hot stones
FRONT OF LEGS 2M stones – approx. 12 mins (including foot)

Remove 1M from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel at left foot
Uncover left leg
1. Effleurage x3 - ankle to top of thigh, lifting under knee, ending over foot, lateral to medial
Pick up stone
2. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, ankle to top of thigh, avoid knee and tibia with stone, glide
down under leg
3. Stripping x3 - Slide up with side of stone, lateral side of calf, flat stone glide around knee,
medial side of thigh, flat stone glide down
4. Stripping x3 - Slide up with side of stone, medial side of calf, flat stone glide around knee,
lateral side of thigh, flat stone glide down

5. Glide to quads, Kneading quadriceps x3 - flat stone, circles one hand, kneading other
hand,lateral, middle ,medial x3
6. Side pullsx3, side pushes x3
7. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, ankle to top of thigh, avoid knee and tibia with stone, glide
down under leg, lateral to medial
On last glide down, leave stone under knee

Cover left leg, leaving left foot uncovered
FOOT 2 Sets Toe Stones (1S, 4 toe placements)

Remove 1 set Toe Stones (in Bag) from heater, apply oil to 1S only, wrap all in
towel at left foot
1. Effleurage x3- down top of foot, around ankles, one hand under, finish at toes
2. Kneading x3- Thumbs on top of foot, fingers underneath
3. Stroking x3 - cupping hands over top of foot, alternate hands
4. Stretching x3 - grasp foot, slide hands along foot to toes, pulling back with body weight
Pick up 1S
5. Palmar knead sole of foot x3, hold stone in position.
6. Pick up toe stone , start at toe and circle down dorsal metatarsal to ankle, glide up and
position stone in between the toe. repeat
Position 4 toe placement stones between toes

1S Stone in arch of foot and wrap in foot towel
Remove 1M from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel at Right Foot

Repeat sequence on Right Leg
Remove other set Toe Stones (in Bag) from heater, apply oil to 1S only, wrap all
in towel at Right Foot
Repeat sequence on Right Foot
Remove all stone placements on stomach, place in basket
STOMACH 2S stones – 5 mins
Remove 2S from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel

Ensure hand towel is covering breast, move large towel down to hips
Work from client’s left side
Apply oil to stomach with clockwise circles, left hand stays, right hand lifts
1. Effleurage x3 - slide up to ribs, out under ribs to back, lift up sides
Pick up both stones

2. Sun and moon stroke over the abdomen x 3. 2 flat stones, clockwise circles, left hand
stays, right hand lifts off
3. Hand after hand over the abdomen x 3 (diamond direction) Begin movement on client’s
waist on the opposite side of stance. Apply alternating palmer effleurage in a clockwise
direction in a diamond pattern using the ribs and pelvis as borders.
4. Side pulls over abdomen x 3. Glide hand across to the midline of the waist, as this hand
reaches the midline the other hand follows alternating and lifting up sides stroking both
sides of waist
5. Repeat to other side of the waist
6. Reinforced circular kneading over the large intestine x 1. Perform small circles clockwise
direction in a square pattern around the abdomen
7. Effleurage x 3. 2 flat stones slide up to ribs, out under ribs to back, lift up sides.
Place stones at sides on third effleurage and lift off

Place stones used on stomach in basket
HANDS AND ARMS 2S stones – 5 mins

Remove 1S from heater, apply oil to whole arm (including Triceps), wrap in
towel
Start with Left arm/hand

1. Effleurage x3 - flat palms, hand to shoulder, around shoulder, glide down
2. Kneading top of whole armx3
3. Twist/Pull fingers x1- twist and rotate joints, pulling to fingertips
Turn hand over
4. Kneading palm x3- thumbs on palms
Keep arm turned over with palm up
Pick up stone
5. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, inner wrist to shoulder, hold wrist to steady arm, long strokes,
upward only
6. Circles on palms x3 - edge of stone, clockwise
7. Circles on inner lower arm x3 - wrist to elbow, flat stone, glide back down
Bend elbow, flex arm over shoulder, place palm on bed
8. Circles on upper arm x3 - elbow to shoulder (triceps), flat stone, glide back down. Lower
the arm and place back on bed
9. Circles on biceps x 3
10. Effleurage x3 - flat stone, inner wrist to shoulder, hold wrist to steady arm, long strokes,
upward only
Finish with stone in palm, turn hand over
Remove 1S from heater, apply oil, wrap in towel

Repeat on Right arm/hand
NECK AND DEC no stones (approx. 3 mins)

1. “Prayer” Effleurage x3 - across décolleté to shoulders, around deltoids, kneading on
trapezius, up to occipital, back out to deltoid
2. Knuckling x23- across décolleté to shoulders, around deltoids, up to occipital
Turn client’s head to side
3. Stroking up sides of neck x3- alternate hands
Turn client’s head other way
4. Stroking other side of neck x3 - alternate hands
5. Effleurage x3 - pull upward to occipital, release
Pause on shoulders, press down
Glide off elbows to finish
 Remove foot/toe stones

 Gently stretch feet downwards and pause
 Remove all stones – under knees, hand
 Use one hot towel to remove oil from feet
 Help client to sit up if required/ Offer drink of water
 Commence client recovery

Post treatment care of stones
You will already be familiar with the process of cleaning the treatment room after a client
and setting up for the next client. However, there are some directions for the care of the
stones after use on a client:
 After the massage collect all of the stones that you have removed from the heater.
 Rinse in warm water
 If the stones have become sticky with oil then you will need to spray and them wipe
them with an alcohol based solution (e.g. 70% w/w ethyl alcohol)
 Immerse in warm, soapy water
 Clean by brushing with a nylon bristle brush
 Keep the stones low in the sink so that the water and aerosol from the cleaning does not
come into contact with you or your eyes
 Rinse with warm water
 Place on clean towel to dry
Spas that offer many stone therapy massages will be likely to have more than one heater and
set of stones. This allows for back to back treatments.
Deal with adverse reactions/ Contra actions
Possible adverse reactions include:

 Extreme erythema arising from the client becoming overheated or an area
becoming overheated.
 Skin blemishes due to massage stimulation
 Allergic reactions of the skin or body to treatments or products
 Psychological reactions of the client to treatments who may feel claustrophobic,
or create an emotional outburst
 Conditions which indicate client referral to a medical practitioner or other
professional
 Flu like symptoms, including raised temperature
 Dizziness, nausea, headache, fainting.
If a client becomes overheated you may need to lower the temperature of the room,
apply a cold stone to the area or remove some of the towelling from a limb. Check the
temperature of the stones and ensure that you use them at a lower temperature.
All massage can result in a break out. If you use light massage oil and remove the oil
with hot towels after the massage this should limit any breakouts. The client could also
shower after the massage if they are prone to breakouts. If the client has an allergic
reaction to the products this may have been triggered by the combination of heat and
the product. You would have checked with the client before the massage in regard to
their allergies. If the client is allergic to nuts then you should not use an oil made from
that nut. Cool the area and remove the product with a cool towel. Allow the area to rest
with no product on it. The allergy should reside in a few minutes. If it persists apply cool
packs.
If the client is claustrophobic and reacts to the closeness of the treatment and towelling
then you will have to respect their wishes and stop the massage.

If your client experiences an emotional outburst of tears, ensure her that this is only a
temporary reaction and is a means to releasing emotional build up.
A client with medical conditions will have been referred to a medical practitioner before
you commenced the massage. A written clearance is required. Under these
circumstances an adverse reaction should not occur. Note any adverse reactions on the
client treatment card.
Evaluate the treatment

Once you have completed your massage, it is essential that you evaluate the treatment.
This must be done for the following reasons,
 If any adjustments are required they can be recorded on the
clients card
 Anything you may have observed can be documented
 Any request the client may have can be documented eg. Doesn’t
like stomach being massaged
Questions that you may ask your client in order to help you evaluate the treatment may be;
 How did you enjoy your massage?

 Is there anything you would like me to change for your next treatment?
 How are you feeling?
 How do those tense areas you mentioned feel now?
 Was there anything you didn’t enjoy about the treatment?
 How was the weight of the placement stones?
 Were you comfortable with the treatment?
Provide post treatment care.

Aftercare treatment is a critical aspect of the stone therapy treatment you provide to your
client.
After completion of the stone therapy massage, advise your client to relax and take a slow
pace in getting ready to leave the spa, if possible. As this treatment involves the application
of heat and the client has been lying down advise them to take their time to get up slowly. Let
them know that they may feel light-headed or dizzy when they first sit up and that this is
quite normal. This is due to the effects of heat on the body. Heat causes vasodilation of the
blood vessels in the superficial muscles and the skin and a redirection of the blood flow to
this area and away from the internal organs. This lowers the blood pressure and if a client
sits up quickly then they may feel dizzy or light headed as the body struggles to redirect
blood flow from the muscles and towards the head. In some clients this adjustment needs to
be taken slowly, whilst others adjust quickly. Sitting up is the first step with clients prone to
dizziness, allow their body to adjust to the new position and then they can get off the
treatment couch. Always help your client sit up.
Advise the client to take their time in getting dressed and encourage them to let the stone
therapy experience sink in rather than rushing off to their next appointment. Suggest that
they spend some time in the aftercare lounge to re-orientate themselves. This lounge should

have a relaxing ambience to compliment the tone of the treatment. It should contain
comfortable seating with minimal noise from outside. Recommend that the client have a
glass or several glasses of water kept at room temperature after the stone therapy massage to
rehydrate their body. The heat or thermal component associated with stone therapy massage
acts as a stimulus for the sweating response.
Replacing water in the body is vital as water is critical in temperature regulation, nerve
impulse conduction, circulation, metabolism, immune system, eliminative processes and
sensory awareness.
Advise on further treatment and home care

As part of providing clients with a high quality service and assisting them to achieve their
goals, you should recommend and book follow up stone therapy massage or other spa
treatments for your clients. Stress to the client that it is important that they follow the
recommended after-care instructions and advice as this will complement the effects of the
stone therapy massage. If the client cannot visit the spa regularly, sound aftercare advice is
especially important.
Aftercare may include advice on:
 Suitable products for homecare
 Future treatments: rebooking/referrals
 Lifestyle changes.
Products
These will include products relating to the spa treatment performed and will assist the client
to achieve a holistic approach to their wellbeing. Other recommendations which the spa
therapist could make include products such as bath salts and minerals and pre-blended
aromatic plant oils.
It is common practice to show the client other products that may enhance their spa
treatment. If providing the client with samples, ensure the client knows what each product
does and how to use it. It is usually not good practice to supply more than two or three
samples, as the client may get confused about their application. Samples given should be
recorded on the client’s stone therapy massage treatment plan and follow-up questions asked
at the next visit.
Always demonstrate product application to the client to ensure correct usage.
Spa products a client may wish to purchase may include:
 Marine or seaweed exfoliants
 Natural spa soap bars
 Aromatherapy oils
 Replenishing serums containing marine and herbal ingredients
 Bath additives containing ingredients such as algae, minerals and vitamins.
The client should be advised of possible reactions which can occur as a result of product use.

Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle factors play a key role in facilitating the effectiveness of a stone therapy massage
and achieving mental and physical well-being. Client’s attention to diet, relaxation and rest
are all important considerations. Assisting the client with simple relaxation exercises,
healthy exercise and diet and better care of their body and skin all contribute to the
maintenance of holistic health. Recommendations can focus on:
 Dietary advice
 Stress management
 Exercise
 Water intake
 Sun protection
 Caffeine, alcohol and/or tobacco reduction
 Adequate rest and relaxation
 Meditation
 Fresh air
Offering your clients advice about the above personal lifestyle factors needs to be done with
sensitivity and tact. Some clients simply are not interested but others like to discuss their
options with you.
Further treatment
Building and launching a spa takes serious money and effort. Building a client base to
support the operations of the spa is something that everyone in the spa team has an interest
in. Spa competition is vigorous and there is always another business that can offer the
product at a cheaper rate. Excellent customer service and technical expertise is something
that the therapist can offer to the client. Remembering client’s name or details of previous
discussions and treatments, helps to build trust and confidence between you and the client.
Rewarding regular clients and always looking for different treatment options is another way
that a therapist can maintain the interest of the client. Clients expect courteous, prompt and
personal attention. They will be expected to be handled with skill and diplomacy.
Recommending further treatments is part of building the spa client base and the business
may have a policy on rebooking, rewarding regular clients and follow up procedures.
Ideal treatments to book in with stone massage can be Facials, Pedicure and Body wraps.
Whilst rebooking is good for business it also needs to be in the interest of the client. Selling
unnecessary or unwanted treatments to clients is a sure way to lose their long term
patronage.

Diagrams of systems of the body
Skeletal System

Muscular System

Glossary
Ayurveda An ancient system of Indian medicine.
Ayu means life, veda means
knowledge.
Basalt Dark coloured, igneus extrusive rock.
Commonly used in stone therapy
massage.
Chakra A level of energy in the body. It is part
of ayurvedic medicine.
Chronic Of slow onset or long standing,
persistent.
Cryotherapy Application of cold to treat a
condition.
Curing A process of preparing new stones for
use in stone therapy massage.
Extrusive igneus rock Rock formed from molten rock or
magma that has been ejected onto the
earth’s surface by volcanic activity.
Geothermal therapy Sometimes this is used to describe
stone therapy massage.
Igneus rock Rocks formed from molten rock or
magma.
Intrusive igneus rock Rocks formed from molten rock or
magma by a slow cooling process
within the earth.
Jadestone A metamorphic rock containing
jadeite and nephrite.
Marble A metamorphic rock formed from
limestone or dolomite.
Metamorphic rock Rock that is produced by chemical,
temperature and pressure forces
acting on igneous or sedimentary
rock.
Placement stones Stones that are placed on or under the
body. They can be hot or cold.
Quartzite A metamorphic rock formed from
sandstone.
Sedimentary rock Rock formed from cementing grains of
minerals and rocks together.
Working stones Stones that are used by the therapist
to massage with.

Practical assessment criteria

Practical assessment criteria
Stone therapy
Unit of Study: SIBBBOS504A Provide stone therapy massage
Assessment: as per CNB Assessment Policy - VET – ACA-004

In cases where a student is unable to attend a practical examination at the
scheduled time, they must advise their trainer as soon as they are aware of this
so that an alternate time can be scheduled. Any missed practical examination
time (whether the trainer is advised or otherwise) will count as an attempt and
will result in a grade of NYS for that attempt. Any rescheduled practical
examination time will count as a resit. If a student then receives a result of NYS
for their first resit, they will be afforded one final resit (3 attempts in total). It is
the responsibility of the student to make themselves available at the time that
the trainer reschedules their practical examination – rescheduling is not a
negotiation process between trainer and student.
Time allowed: 15 min set-up

15 min consultation
60 min treatment
5 min aftercare
10 min clean up
Students demonstrate professionalism and demonstrate safe working practices

 Full uniform and closed in shoes
 Hair tied back, nails short and clean, no nail polish
 Jewellery removed
 Clear communication
 Correct hand washing and hygiene throughout massage
 Correct equipment set up with unobstructed area
 Infection control before during and after session
 No loose wires or cracks in leads
Consultation and Client Card

 Perform the consultation to determine client expectation s in a professional manner
 Interactive discussion with client using open ended questions to identify and confirm
requirements
 Explain the purpose, treatment objective, outcomes of stone therapy massage would
meet clients’ needs and how this would benefit the client.
 Relevant contraindications are identified and discussed with client including
referring to appropriate professional if required.
 Options and limitations for future treatments are assessed and discussed.
 Any variations to the treatment plan are identified and recorded
 Obtain information is consented and disclaimer has been signed
 Client card filled in accurately and legibly
Prepare and provide stone therapy massage

 Modesty and privacy is maintained as client prepares for treatment
 Stones immersed in water in temperature adjusted stone heater
 Prepared cold water bowl
 Safe delivery of the stone treatment by

 Massage oil applied
 Warming the skin performed
 Stone temperature is checked
 Hot stone massage sequence is performed according to treatment plan.
 Placement of hot and cold stones on selected body areas
 Client’s comfort and wellbeing monitored throughout
 Recognize and respond to adverse reactions
 Treatment is performed in timeframe
 Stones and Equipment used in accordance of WPHS
Reviewing of treatment and post-treatment advice

 Outcomes of treatment evaluated
 Future treatment program is recommended
 Post-treatment adverse effects explained
 Provide aftercare and lifestyle changes
 Confirm clients satisfaction and obtain feedback from client
 Homecare product use is explained and demonstrated as required
 Rebooking with any adjustments to treatment plan
Cleaning and Feedback

 Stones scrubbed using antibacterial wash
 Stones disinfected
 Stones dried and put back in appreciate location
 Stone heater disinfected
 Treatment area to be cleaned, floors swept and mopped
 All equipment to be cleaned, sterilized and put away
 Rubbish to be taken out
 Feedback and results.

Organic spa / Eco tan cheat sheet- Body
Product Skin type Feature Benefit Price
body wash All skin types purify, freshen, zesty. Supports natural ph $29.95
Aloe vera leaf juice, balance of skin, cooling,
Calendula extract, hydrating, soothes &
Lemon myrtle oil moisturises, derived
from sugar cane. Lemon
myrtle-
antifungal/antimicrobial.
250/ 500gm
body salt Most skin revitalise, invigorate, Granules slough away $36.95
scrub types soften. Sodium dead skin, makes skin
chloride(sea salt), brighter & smoother.
macadamia seed, jojoba antibacterial/ astringent
& macadamia oil Jojoba/ macadamia
condition skin
250gm
body All skin types light, cooling, hydrating Rich in vit E, powerful $29.95
moisturiser avocado oil, macadamia antioxidant. Reduces
seed oil, chamomile inflammation& balances
flower extract skin
200gm
Body butter Dry luxurious, concentrated, Hydrating & soothing $37.95
dehydrated radiant. Coconut oil, skin conditioner rich in
cocoa seed butter, shea vit A,E &D.
butter, Vit E ant- inflammatory ,
promotes cell renewal&
skin elasticity.
Antioxidant from
soybean& corn oils.
Eco tan
Extreme most Use dry or wet. Can effectively unclog $19.50
exfoliant Removes dead skin pores, ais in reducing
mitt cells, leaves skin smooth acne, blackheads, milia &
cellulite
Winter skin Fair-medium Contains rose flower, No synthetics, use as a $29.95
skin daily nourisher builds to tan extender
honey glow

Invisible medium/olive Soft note of rose flower No need to exfoliate $34.95
tan moisturising/nourishing before, no staining
builds to rich honey tan clothes or linen
Deodorant all Natural Coconut No Aluminium . No $14.95

creates a pleasant scent Parabens .No Hidden
whilst still allowing the Nasties .Unisex
body to release toxins


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Stone therapy massage

Unit Duration 4 weeks

Stone therapy background 1

Practical assessment criteria 39

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The benefits of hot stone therapy include:

The benefits of contrast treatments are:

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Privacy and confidentiality

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Current body homecare

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Outcomes of previous body treatments

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Cold stone setup.

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Professional presentation – a room that is colour co-ordinated, uncluttered and clean is

Health regulations in a salon

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Extraction: steam-distilled from the fresh or partially dried leaves.

Benefits: muscle tension, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, analgesic,

Contraindications: Toxic when ingested,

Extraction: steam-distilled from the leaves, flowers and twigs

Benefits: Good for overworked muscles, arthritis, concentration pregnancy

Contraindications: pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure

Extraction: steam-distilled from fresh or partly dried leaves

Contraindications: Pregnancy, skin irritations

Extraction: steam-distilled from the fresh leaves and twigs

Contraindications: Skin irritations

Extraction: steamed-distilled from partially dried herb

Contraindications: Pregnancy, children, on the face

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Extraction: Expressed from the peels of the grapefruit

Extraction: steam-distilled from the leaves, flowers and twigs

Benefits: Good for overworked muscles, arthritis, concentration pregnancy,

Contraindications: pregnancy, epilepsy, high blood pressure

Extraction: produced from the distillation of the crushed seeds

Contraindications: Epilepsy and pregnancy

Benefits: clears toxins, cellulite, cystitis, digestion, diarrhoea, intellectual fatigue,

Contraindications: pregnancy, kidney disease.

Extraction: steam-distilled from the dried seed of the wild carrot.

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Extraction: steam-distilled from freshly cut flowering tops and stalks.

Considerations: Low blood pressure

Extraction: steam distilled from the leaves and branches

Considerations: can cause sensitivity with dermatitis

Extraction: Steam distilled from flowers.

Benefits: balances male/female energy, combats low self-esteem, focuses

Contraindications: Low Blood Pressure

Extraction: distilled from the flowering tops

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