Hot stone massage at home: how it works, the warmth and safety tips
Updated October 24, 2026 · 2 min read
Warmth spreading along the spine is why many people choose hot stones on a cool day or after a long one. Here is how a session works, what to know about heat and how to book one at home.
What hot stone massage is
Hot stone massage uses smooth basalt stones warmed in a dedicated heater. The therapist places stones along both sides of your back, in your palms or under your feet, then uses a warm stone as an extension of the hand to glide along the muscles, together with massage oil.
Basalt holds heat for a long time and releases it evenly, so the warmth goes deeper and lasts longer than with hands alone.
The warmth, and when to choose it
Heat helps the body let go faster, so the therapist rarely needs strong pressure for your muscles to soften. The rhythm is slow and steady, which suits people whose hands and feet get cold, whose back and shoulders feel stiff after a long day, or who want a deeply relaxing session.
It is especially pleasant in northern Vietnam's winter or on rainy days. In the hot season it still works well in a comfortably air-conditioned room.
Heat safety
The therapist always tests the stones first and adds a towel when needed. Say straight away if anything feels too hot, and choose another treatment or ask a doctor first if you:
- Are pregnant.
- Have diabetes or areas of skin with reduced feeling for heat.
- Have varicose veins, unstable blood pressure or a heart condition.
- Have open cuts, sunburn, a rash or a recent skin procedure.
- Have a fever or feel unusually unwell.
Booking hot stone massage at home on MiMi
Hot stone massage comes in 90 minutes (₫550,000) and 120 minutes (₫690,000). The therapist usually brings the stones and heater (you can check by chat in the app); you just need a bed or mattress, a power socket nearby, a few towels and a comfortably warm room.
MiMi has therapists across Vietnam, with the most in Hanoi. The price is shown in the app before you confirm, you pay the therapist directly and there's no tip. Sessions between 22:00 and 06:00 carry a night surcharge of ₫50,000, also included in the total.