Most massage therapists use their bodies as their main tool of choice. Whether it is effleurage (those really long, relaxing strokes), or deep tissue therapy, there isn't any substitute for skin-to-skin contact. However, sometimes a hot stone, cupping, or a gua sha tool can do the job a little easier! Here is a collection of tools for practitioners and use at home.
Anyone Can Use
Foot Roller
Put it in the freezer for extra relief after a long day on your feet! These are readily available, cheap, and come in tons of materials. They are self-explanatory, making them perfect for anyone!
Therapy Cane
This versatile tool is a one-size-fits-all fix for those tough to reach knots. If you currently find yourself trying to tuck a tennis ball into the right spot for pain relief, this might be best for you!
After a Little Research
Therapy Gun
Therapy guns use rapid tapotement to release tense muscles. Some have heat, or come with different sizes and shapes of attachments. This tool needs a little instruction, but is great for most people to use on themselves after some practice. The more expensive models are usually geared toward massage therapists who want to use the tool often in their practice, as they focus on making sure not to vibrate the practitioner's arm too much, as this can eventually cause discomfort.
Gua Sha Tools
Gua Sha has become a popular home-remedy in recent years, with many companies promoting their beautiful stones for use as a daily face "lifter". This tool does require a little instruction for basic use, but the most difficult part might just be choosing a set. Keep in mind that if you choose a crystal or stone set, they are likely a very porous material, and will hold onto bacteria unless they are thoroughly soaked in a cleansing liquid after every single use. Metal tools may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but they are easy to clean, and can be refrigerated or gently heated in warm water for extra relief.
For the Experts
Hot Stones
See this beautiful image, where the therapist is placing stones directly on her skin? A professional will actually never do this (unless the stones have had a lot of time to cool down). Because they retain so much heat, we always use a cloth barrier to protect the skin, unless the therapist is moving the stone along skin while holding it in their hand. Not only is there a risk of burning with improper use, but the basalt stones are tricky to clean, and need to be soaked or boiled to make sure they do not hold onto bacteria from the skin.
Cupping
Whether your cupping method is a suction gun, silicone cups, or fire-cupping, definitely leave it to the professionals. Applying cups incorrectly or leaving them on too long can cause problems! Your practitioner is trained and has the practice needed to know exactly how to apply and remove cups.
With a few youtube videos and maybe some instruction from your personal massage therapist, there are many tools that are accessible for anyone to use at home! We hope this gave you some new ideas about self care, and what to leave to the professionals.
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