In the bodywork, energywork and massage fields specific modalities allow and encourage tools to be used. Some modalities cannot be applied without a tool or device while others call for tools in special circumstances. Learn what kinds of paraphernalia a massage therapist or bodywork practitioner may use in a session.
Crystals and Rocks
These tools stretch over multiple modalities. An energyworker, such as a Polarity Therapist, will use crystals in every session to balance energy fields. Some massage therapists use crystals in a basic Swedish massage or a combination of energywork and massage.
Rocks in a massage or bodywork session are generally heated in a water bath and used warm or hot. Types of sessions that might use these include:
- La Stone Massage
- Hot Stone Reflexology
- European Stone Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Chakra Stone Placement
Marble stones may be chilled for use in a cold stone treatment during warm weather or for clients that cannot tolerate the hot stones. The cold marble stones are commonly used on the face, hands and feet but may also be applied to the whole body.
Wooden Dowels and Sticks
Generally used in Oriental and Pressure Point Therapies dowels vary in size and use. Some modalities that use a dowel or stick in a session:
- Thai Foot Massage
- Rwo Shur Foot Reflexology
- Trigger Point Therapy
Massage Machines and Electrical Tools
Commercial grade massage machines can be used by both massage therapists and chiropractors to warm up tissues before techniques are applied. These electric tools may be used over the back, legs or feet. While it cannot replace the therapeutic touch of a skilled practitioner the massage machine can give the therapist an advantage when tight muscles are at play. For example, a five to ten minute session with the apparatus may allow the massage therapist to get to a deeper issue and reduce the need for a long warm up technique.
Miscellaneous Massage Devices and Bodywork Tools
Some of these tools may protect and save a practitioner’s hands while other devices claim to affect the client’s energy fields:
- Ergonomic tools – includes devices such as the Thumbsaver and Hand L Massager that help to reduce the strain and wear on the practitioner’s hands.
- Acupressure – ranging from hard plastic to wood these tools are used to place pressure over a small area such as a reflex point or acupressure point.
- Tapotement tools – used to apply a percussion like technique, the tool has a long handle with a soft ball on the end and is gently pounded on the back, legs and feet.
- Tuning Forks – these may be used on face reflex and acupuncture points, on the feet for Sound Healing Reflexology, and by energyworkers for room and aura clearing.
Tools for Self Help
Massage and bodywork tools are also available for home and self use. Some are shaped to allow a better reach of tight back muscles, or to roll out foot tension and pain. Others are great for a novice to use on a loved one for a good back rub.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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