Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage is a deeply relaxing and therapeutic massage modality that combines manual massage techniques with the application of heated stones. The warmth of the stones helps to soften tight tissues, support circulation, and calm the nervous system,allowing the therapist to work more effectively while reducing muscular tension and stress. Hot Stone Massage is widely used in luxury spas and wellness centers worldwide for its ability to deliver instant relaxation, deeper muscle release, and improved overall wellbeing.

OBJECTIVE

This course aims to develop professional competence in Hot Stone Massage, enabling learners to safely and effectively deliver Hot Stone Massage treatments to the general public. Upon completion, learners will gain the practical and theoretical skills required to perform Hot Stone Massage using correct techniques, heat safety guidelines, hygiene and sanitation standards, professional client care, and appropriate aftercare advice.

Graduates will be prepared to pursue employment opportunities in the local and global spa and wellness industry and may also establish their own wellness practice or business, including a wellness center or spa, as well as mobile and home-visit massage services.

PRE-REQUISITE

No prior experience is required. The Certificate in Hot Stone Massage is open to all candidates.

MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION

English / Sinhala

CURRICULUM

1: Introduction to Hot Stone Massage
Definition and purpose
Origins and historical development
Therapeutic benefits
Differences between Hot Stone and traditional massage
Scope of practice

2: Health, Safety & Hygiene
Hygiene and sanitation standards
Treatment room setup
Risk assessment and safe working practices
Infection control
Contra-indications and precautions

3: Anatomy & Physiology for Hot Stone Massage
Muscular system and muscle response to heat
Circulatory & lymphatic systems
Nervous system basics
Skeletal system overview
Skin structure and heat effects

4: Hot Stone Massage Theory
Types of stones (basalt, river stones)
Heating systems and thermostats
Stone types & sizes for different body areas
Effects of heat on tissues
Safety guidelines for temperature and placement

5: Client Consultation & Assessment
Professional communication
Health history and intake
Contra-indications specific to heat therapy
Planning treatment based on client needs
Documentation and consent

6: Hot Stone Massage Techniques
Students will develop hands-on skill in:
Use of stones to apply smooth gliding strokes
Integrating stones with manual massage
Static placements for deeper relaxation
Working different body regions: back, limbs, shoulders, neck
Flow, pressure modulation, and timing

7: Full Hot Stone Massage Treatment Sequence
Practical routine includes:
Preparation of therapist & client
Warm-up massage (without stones)
Placement and movement with heated stones
Back and neck treatment
Shoulder and limb treatment
Stone removal and finishing strokes
Aftercare & client feedback

8: Therapist Self-Care & Body Mechanics
Ergonomics for therapist
Preventing strain and discomfort
Proper posture and stone handling
Warm-up routines for therapists

9: Professional Practice & Ethics
Therapist responsibilities
Confidentiality and communication
Ethical treatment and scope of practice
Legal responsibilities

10: Business Awareness & Career Pathways
Service menu design and pricing
Marketing and promotion
Client retention strategies

ASSESSMENT

Theoretical Examination: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) exam

Practical Examination: Client consultation and 1.5-hour Hot Stone Massage

Assignments

Case studies

GRADING CRITERIA

The overall qualification is graded:

Pass: 60% – 74%

Merit: 75% – 89%

Distinction: 90% – 100%

The collective mark is formed by multiple-choice questions, practical exam, assignments, and case studies.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

Conduct professional client consultations, complete treatment plans, and identify contraindications and precautions related to heat therapy.

Apply safe and effective Hot Stone Massage techniques using correct posture, pressure control, and stone-handling skills.

Deliver structured full-body Hot Stone Massage tailored to individual client needs and comfort levels.

Apply essential anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe, effective, and results-focused heat-based massage practice.

Maintain international standards of hygiene and sanitation, health & safety, and ethical professional conduct.

Provide appropriate aftercare and home-care advice to support client recovery, relaxation, and treatment results.

Demonstrate professional communication and service standards suitable for spa, wellness center, and clinic environments.

Be prepared to pursue employment opportunities in the local and global spa and wellness industry, or work independently by setting up a professional wellness practice or business, including a wellness center or spa, as well as mobile and home-visit massage services.

CERTIFICATION

Certificate in Hot Stone Massage

Accredited by International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM), UK

Your Life Wellness Certificate in Hot Stone Massage qualifies you to apply for IPHM therapist membership, including eligibility for an identification card and insurance.

The Certificate in Hot Stone Massage course is registered under the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) of Sri Lanka.