I have yet to experience a full on hot-stone massage - and I can't imagine why! I have often enjoyed the warmth of sun-baked rocks against my skin. I would imagine my skin would recall a time from my youth if I were to experience this therapy... a time when I sun-bathed on rocks in Greece...
I'm also partial to weighted items, like our Thermasand which provides the localized heat. Again, there is some kind of comfort and caring that comes from feeling the pressure of the weight of this item.