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Mark Perren-Jones

Master the Art of Hot Stones Massage with Mark Perren-Jones

Wouldn’t you love to learn how to deliver an incredible hot stones massage that combines soothing warmth with expert massage techniques?

Now you can—taught by best-selling massage course instructor Mark Perren-Jones, whose innovative approach ensures you’ll not only master the basics but also deliver a truly unforgettable experience.

Here’s what students are saying:

"Great instructions on hot stones massage." – C.V.

Read more

Master the Art of Hot Stones Massage with Mark Perren-Jones

Wouldn’t you love to learn how to deliver an incredible hot stones massage that combines soothing warmth with expert massage techniques?

Now you can—taught by best-selling massage course instructor Mark Perren-Jones, whose innovative approach ensures you’ll not only master the basics but also deliver a truly unforgettable experience.

Here’s what students are saying:

"Great instructions on hot stones massage." – C.V.

"Excellent teacher. Love it. This is one of the best hot stone massage courses I’ve taken. I gained several new insights that really helped. Thank you for the professional and well-done teaching. " – P.K.

Why This Course is Different

Mark discovered early on that most hot stones massage courses focus so much on the stones that they forget the essential element of massage—using the hands and forearms to create a deeply therapeutic and relaxing experience.

In this course, Mark combines his 25+ years of massage expertise with a step-by-step approach, teaching you how to integrate the heat and glide of the stones with hands-on massage techniques. Whether you’re new to hot stones massage or looking to refine your skills, this course has everything you need.

What You’ll Learn

- Using Forearm Techniques: Maximize your effectiveness while minimizing strain.

- Equipment Essentials: Learn what you need (and what you don’t) to get started.

- Body Alignment and Postural Tips: Work smarter, not harder, and protect your body.

- Creating the Perfect Atmosphere: Set the stage for an unforgettable client experience.

- First Impressions That Matter: Build trust and loyalty from the moment your clients walk in.

- Spa & Clinic Marketing Strategies: Learn how to grow your business and attract more clients.

- …and much more.

What Sets This Course Apart?

Mark doesn’t just teach techniques; he shares the secrets to building a thriving practice. You’ll learn advanced skills to deliver exceptional massages, avoid common therapist mistakes, and grow your business.

Mark’s own spa grew from a one-person operation to employing four therapists in under two years. His insights will empower you to stand out in the highly competitive wellness industry.

Why Quality Matters

The heart of any successful massage practice is delivering exceptional experiences. Without an outstanding massage, even the best marketing won’t sustain your business. This course ensures you’ll stand out by combining hot stones techniques with the quality of touch that keeps clients coming back—and raving to their friends.

About Your Instructor

Mark Perren-Jones is an Approved Continuing Education Provider (APCE) with the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork ( His award-winning teaching style has helped thousands of therapists elevate their skills and transform their practices.

Join the Course Today.

Take the first step toward mastering hot stones massage and creating a rewarding, successful practice.

Enroll now to learn the techniques, strategies, and secrets that will set you apart.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will get a certificate of completion when you finish this hot stones massage course from mark personally
  • You will understand how to perform hot stones massage using correct body mechanics
  • You will know what you need to do to give a massage client an incredible hot stones massage experience from the moment she/he walks into your room/spa
  • You will know how to avoid the many mistakes and pitfalls that so many other massage therapists make
  • You will have the tools to build your own highly successful spa or massage clinic
  • You will be able to perform our amazing hot stones massage sequence, plus have a wealth of knowledge on other aspects of the spa business

Syllabus

Introduction

You are about to learn how to do our hot stones massage sequence and here i not only introduce the course but also talk about getting your massage equipment and set up correct.

Read more

I wanted to explain why you see this section in my massage courses each time

Here I have provided for you in the resources a PDF file that you can download and it summarizes what I teach throughout this course

You will need certain equipment for your hot stones massage. Here are a few ways to save money when it is time to buy.

In this lecture, we cover the 4 most important factors when purchasing your massage table - for you, and your clients!

Learn how we set up our massage tables in the most efficient and practical way - remember, the small touches will separate you from the rest!

Its the little things that can make a huge difference. Here I show you some things that will make your massage even more incredible before you even start the massage.

As it is said, Time is of the Importance, and no moreso than when it comes to your massage clinic or spa.

There are a few things that therapists commonly do in their massages which i do not. I explain what these are and why not.

A very important aspect of your carreer is to do what you know and don't do what you don't know

There is nothing more important once you have the skills than to hone them. This is the person you want to practice on

In this lecture, we go over the biggest mistakes massage therapists make and the reasons why most do not last.

As with any skill, practice makes perfect! In this lecture, we cover this and our experience.

A contraindication is a situation when massage should not be performed. Continuing with treatment may be more detrimental than beneficial and in some cases may cause serious medical problems. Here is a list of those contraindications and also useful forms for you to download

My Facebook group and Instagram are great resources for you

It is important for you to know that you have absorbed and understood the lecture, therefore this quiz qill help you to see how much information you have learnt and retained

I have made an entire YouTube music channel that you can check out and use it in your spa/clinic with your clients, or for yourself at home, meditating, or in the car. Anywhere!

Here, for a bit of fun, I teach you some interesting facts about our bodily systems

Let's look at the skin, hair, nails and other parts of the integumentary system in under 2 minutes

And now a look at our skeletal system in under 1 minute!

It's time to learn about muscles.

It's time to see how are circulatory system works

So just how does our digestive system work?

The communications center for your body-the nervous system

And now for a look at our wonderful respiratory system.

You need to know how to do the techniques correctly. Here I show you both the correct ways and also what not to do.

It is imperative to keep your hands soft

This is the first stroke that you use on the client.

You will see how to and how not to do this stroke in this lecture. It is so often done poorly

Let us take a look at kneading correctly

Using your forearms feels great when done correctly.

This is important to get correct or your thumbs will get hurt very quickly.

As you practice I want you to focus on applying the correct pressure. It will take some time as you develop your palpation skills but this will make your massage feel incredible to your client .

Let's see how much you have absorbed from section 2

Now that you know how to perform the techniques properly it is time to start massaging the body parts one by one.

It's always to start your massage well. The client knows within seconds whether they are going to have a fabulous massage or not by the feel of your touch from the outset.

Here we work the feet and backs of legs

This is the full back sequence

Some students had asked me how I turn the client over using the towel. I will refilm this lecture when I have a massage table again( I have just moved), but I  hope this gives you a bit of an idea. Also, I explain what I do when I start the massage and how I end it.

Here we do the face, head and neck massage

The arm massage sequence

Here is the other side of the arm massage

The front of the legs sequence and feet.

It is practice time! Here is the complete sequence with music.

It is practice time! You can watch the videos and put on your favorite music whilst you go through the sequence.

It is practice time! You can watch the videos and put on your favorite music whilst you go through the sequence.

Many students wanted to have the sequence without music so that they can watch it and also put on their own music at the same time from the same computer/tablet/iPad so that is why I have this lecture included for you.

Here are a couple of lectures on how you can simply perform chair massage on a normal chair

If you would like to earn money doing massage here are a few ways that you can get started.

If you want to work full time for yourself you need to work on these qualities to become successful.

It is important to market your new found skills. Here are some things that have worked really well for me.

Oh, as they say, hindsight is a wonderful thing. If only I had done these things early in my career I would have been a much better massage therapist sooner.

Lot's of great tips here to take your massage that much further

Here are some tips on how to get more money per client and also happier clients

What to do when that friend wants to sit in on the massage session

How to handle the person that wants to keep their cell phone on during their massage

Your clients will get so much better more quickly by doing these

Here is a word about deep tissue and applying correct pressure

Here are my thoughts on whether you should massage someone that is pregnant or not.

Here is what you do when you have that very hairy client

Can you beat me?

You may want to start also doing aromatherapy hot stones massage and charge more for it. Here is what you should look for when it comes to buying high quality essential oils.

It is imperative that you store your oils properly to keep them from oxidizing and they will last much longer. Here is what you need to do.

Do balms, salves and liniments really work? What does the research say?

I had a question about what I do, if anything to help my body physically. Do I stretch? Take supplements? or do I do something else? Yes, I do something else. Here is what I do and it is great!

Here is what a lot of research has been continually showing. EAMC ( exercise associated muscle cramps) are not due to what we commonly have believed

You know what it is like. You go to the gym or do some unaccustomed exercise and then are hardly able to move a day later. This is known as D.O.M.S. ( delayed onset muscle soreness), but there are a lot of myths about what it is and does massage help it?

Congratulations!

Does this certificate allow me to work and sell products?

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by an Approved Continuing Education Provider, which may help therapists fulfill continuing education requirements and maintain their professional certifications
Explores spa and clinic marketing strategies, which can help therapists grow their business and attract more clients in a competitive wellness industry
Covers body alignment and postural tips, which can help therapists work smarter, protect their bodies, and minimize strain during massage sessions
Includes a section on common mistakes massage therapists make, which can help learners avoid pitfalls and improve their practice
Requires specific equipment for hot stone massage, which may represent an additional upfront investment for learners
Explores contraindications for massage, which is important for ensuring the safety and well-being of clients during massage sessions

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive hot stones massage certification

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation in hot stones massage, distinguishing itself by effectively integrating stone use with traditional hands-on techniques. Many found the instruction by Mark Perren-Jones to be clear, practical, and highly effective. Students particularly appreciated the detailed video demonstrations covering the full massage sequence and specific strokes. Beyond technique, the course is praised for including valuable business and marketing tips, making it relevant for professionals seeking to grow their practice. A large portion of reviews indicate this course is excellent value and a great resource for gaining CEU credits.
Affordable way to learn and earn credits.
"For the price and the amount of information, this course is great value."
"Being able to get CEUs for this high-quality training is a big plus."
"Affordable and provided the necessary credits for my professional development."
Includes helpful tips for growing a practice.
"Beyond the massage techniques, the business tips were incredibly helpful for my practice."
"I wasn't expecting the marketing advice, but it's practical and appreciated."
"Learned some great strategies to market my new hot stones services effectively."
Visuals help master the sequence and strokes.
"The video demonstrations of the full sequence were invaluable for practicing."
"Seeing the strokes performed correctly made a huge difference in my learning."
"The visual clarity of the videos is a major strength of this course."
Instructor Mark Perren-Jones explains concepts well.
"Mark is a fantastic teacher. His explanations are very clear and easy to follow."
"His teaching style is excellent and he breaks down complex techniques simply."
"The instructions were very detailed and easy to understand, perfect for learning at my own pace."
Teaches effective integration of stones and hands.
"The integration of stones and hands was excellent, making the massage feel very fluid."
"I really liked the emphasis on combining the hot stones with actual massage techniques."
"Mark shows you how to really incorporate the stones into a full, relaxing massage flow."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Isla Verde Spa Hot Stones Massage Certificate Course (4 CEU) with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reinforce your understanding of the human body's structure and function to better understand how hot stone massage affects the body.
Browse courses on Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review your notes from previous anatomy and physiology courses.
  • Focus on the muscular, skeletal, and circulatory systems.
  • Take a practice quiz on basic anatomy and physiology concepts.
Practice Basic Massage Strokes
Refine your basic massage strokes to ensure a smooth and effective integration with hot stone techniques.
Show steps
  • Practice effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement on a willing participant.
  • Focus on maintaining consistent pressure and rhythm.
  • Get feedback on your technique and adjust accordingly.
Read 'Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice'
Gain a deeper understanding of massage therapy principles to enhance your hot stone massage techniques.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice'.
  • Read the chapters on massage techniques and contraindications.
  • Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Hot Stone Massage with a Peer
Refine your hot stone massage skills through hands-on practice and feedback from a fellow student.
Show steps
  • Find a classmate to practice hot stone massage with.
  • Take turns giving and receiving hot stone massages.
  • Provide constructive feedback to each other.
  • Focus on proper technique and client comfort.
Explore 'Advanced Massage Therapy'
Deepen your understanding of advanced massage concepts to enhance your hot stone massage practice.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Advanced Massage Therapy'.
  • Read the chapters on specific conditions and advanced techniques.
  • Reflect on how these concepts can be applied to hot stone massage.
Document Your Hot Stone Massage Routine
Solidify your understanding of the hot stone massage sequence by creating a detailed written guide.
Show steps
  • Write down each step of the hot stone massage sequence.
  • Include details on stone placement, massage strokes, and pressure.
  • Add diagrams or illustrations to clarify the steps.
  • Review and refine your guide based on practice and feedback.
Design a Hot Stone Massage Package
Apply your knowledge to create a unique and marketable hot stone massage package for potential clients.
Show steps
  • Define your target client and their needs.
  • Develop a detailed description of your hot stone massage package.
  • Determine pricing and marketing strategies.
  • Create promotional materials for your package.

Career center

Learners who complete Isla Verde Spa Hot Stones Massage Certificate Course (4 CEU) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Massage Therapist
A massage therapist provides therapeutic massage to clients for relaxation, pain relief, and overall wellness. This often involves using various massage techniques to manipulate soft tissues of the body. Studying this course equips you with specialized skills in hot stone massage, enhancing your ability to offer a unique and highly sought-after service. The course emphasis on combining hands-on techniques with the use of hot stones ensures that you deliver a deeply therapeutic and relaxing experience, setting you apart in the competitive wellness industry. Furthermore, the course integrates business and marketing strategies, vital for a massage therapist looking to build a successful practice.
Spa Director
A spa director oversees the operations of a spa, ensuring high-quality service, managing staff, and developing business strategies. This course may help the director enhance the spa's service offerings. By learning the latest hot stones massage techniques, the director can train staff and increase client satisfaction. The course's emphasis on marketing and business strategies is highly relevant for a spa director looking to grow the business and maintain a competitive edge. The insight from Mark may be applicable to their business. Taking this course may provide a competitive edge.
Spa Owner
A spa owner manages and operates a spa facility, overseeing all aspects of the business from staffing to service offerings. They create a relaxing and rejuvenating environment for clients. Taking this course may help improve the services offered by the spa, particularly in hot stone massage. The course teaches how to create an unforgettable client experience, which is crucial for attracting and retaining clients. The spa and clinic marketing strategies taught in the course are especially relevant for a spa owner looking to grow their business. Moreover, the insights from instructor Mark, who grew his spa from a one-person operation, offer practical guidance.
Holistic Health Practitioner
A holistic health practitioner focuses on treating the whole person, considering physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes using various alternative and complementary therapies. This course provides a specific skill in hot stones massage, which can be integrated into a holistic treatment approach. The course emphasis on creating the perfect atmosphere and building trust may be valuable in establishing a strong connection with clients. The additional knowledge on business and marketing strategies helps a holistic health practitioner expand their practice and reach a wider audience. A holistic health practitioner is well-served by learning the material taught in this course.
Wellness Consultant
A wellness consultant provides guidance and support to clients seeking to improve their overall health and well-being. This may involve recommending various therapies and lifestyle changes. This course helps develop a deeper understanding of massage therapy, specifically hot stones, which can then be incorporated into personalized wellness plans. The course's emphasis on creating a deeply therapeutic experience may be useful in promoting the benefits of massage to clients. Additionally, the course may provide insights into spa and clinic marketing strategies, valuable for consultants looking to expand their service offerings and attract more clients.
Aromatherapist
An aromatherapist uses essential oils to promote health and well-being through inhalation, topical application, and other methods. The course may improve an aromatherapist's service offerings by integrating aromatherapy with hot stone massage. By enhancing the therapeutic experience, aromatherapists can provide an even more relaxing and beneficial treatment for their clients. The focus on creating the perfect atmosphere and understanding client needs helps build a loyal clientele. The additional business and marketing strategies taught are valuable for aromatherapists looking to grow their practice and stand out in the competitive wellness industry.
Resort Manager
A resort manager oversees the operations of a resort, ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction and managing all aspects of the property. This course may provide valuable insights into enhancing the spa services offered at the resort. By understanding the benefits of hot stone massage, a resort manager can better promote these services to guests. The course emphasis on creating a positive and memorable client experience can contribute to overall guest satisfaction. The instruction may be useful in building a spa in the resort.
Esthetician
An esthetician provides skin care treatments, such as facials, waxing, and body wraps, to improve the appearance and health of the skin. This course may offer estheticians a valuable additional service to enhance their clients' spa experience. Incorporating hot stones into body treatments provides relaxation and therapeutic benefits. The esthetician may use the course to create a more luxurious and comprehensive service menu. The emphasis on creating a perfect spa atmosphere and first impressions may help estheticians attract and retain clients.
Cosmetologist
A cosmetologist provides a range of beauty services, including hair styling, nail care, and makeup application. This course may be useful in offering additional spa-like services to enhance the client experience. Incorporating hot stones into hand and foot treatments can provide relaxation and therapeutic benefits. The cosmetologist may market these new services to attract and retain clients. The instruction given in the course may be useful to a cosmetologist.
Physical Therapist Assistant
A physical therapist assistant works under the direction of a physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. They assist in implementing treatment plans and providing therapeutic exercises. This course may provide a useful complementary skill in hot stones massage, which could be used to enhance patient relaxation and pain management. The course's focus on body alignment and postural tips may be relevant to a physical therapist assistant's understanding of biomechanics. The emphasis on creating a positive client experience and building trust can also improve patient interactions.
Athletic Trainer
An athletic trainer specializes in preventing and treating injuries related to sports and physical activity. They work with athletes to develop rehabilitation programs and ensure safe participation in their sport. Studying this course may provide additional skills in hot stones massage, which can be used to promote muscle relaxation and reduce pain in injured athletes. The course emphasis on body alignment and postural tips may be relevant to understanding proper biomechanics. The skills taught in the course may enhance their practice.
Recreation Therapist
A recreation therapist uses recreational and activity-based interventions to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals with illnesses or disabilities. This course may be useful in adding complementary relaxation techniques to their therapeutic toolkit. The hot stone massage techniques could be adapted to promote relaxation and reduce stress in clients. The emphasis on creating a positive and therapeutic environment may enhance the effectiveness of recreation therapy sessions. This course may provide additional strategies.
Occupational Therapist Assistant
An occupational therapist assistant helps patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. While the core focus differs, this course may offer a complementary skill. The hot stone massage techniques could be adapted to address sensory and motor challenges in some patients. The emphasis on creating a relaxing and therapeutic environment may also be beneficial for patients undergoing occupational therapy. The knowledge of body alignment and postural tips may give the assistant additional knowledge. It is especially useful to learn how a massage client may benefit from these skills.
Concierge
A concierge provides personalized services to guests at a hotel, resort, or residential building, assisting with reservations, recommendations, and other requests. A concierge may be expected to provide information about the local area, including spa and wellness services. This course may provide the concierge with specialized knowledge of hot stone massage, allowing them to better recommend and describe this service to guests. The concierge may then be better able to discern spa quality. This can allow the concierge to provide better service.
Fitness Instructor
A fitness instructor leads group exercise classes or provides one-on-one training to help clients achieve their fitness goals. This course may not directly align with fitness instruction, but the knowledge of body alignment and postural tips could be relevant to understanding proper exercise form and preventing injuries. The relaxation techniques learned in the course could also be incorporated into post-workout recovery sessions. The additional information on marketing strategies may be useful for fitness instructors looking to build their client base or offer specialized wellness services.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Isla Verde Spa Hot Stones Massage Certificate Course (4 CEU).
Comprehensive guide to massage therapy, covering techniques, theory, and practice management. It provides a strong foundation for understanding massage principles, which is essential for effectively integrating hot stone techniques. This book is commonly used as a textbook in massage therapy programs. It offers in-depth knowledge that complements the course material.
Delves into advanced massage techniques and research, providing a deeper understanding of the physiological effects of massage. It is more valuable as additional reading to expand your knowledge base. It can help you understand the science behind hot stone massage and its benefits. This book is suitable for those looking to go beyond the basics.

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