If you're looking for a way to relax and de-stress, look no further than aromatherapy massage! This type of massage uses essential oils to provide therapeutic benefits. Not only is it relaxing, but it can also help improve your overall health. In this blog post, we will discuss the amazing benefits of aromatherapy massage and give you some tips on how to get the most out of your session!
An aromatherapy massage is a type of massage that uses essential oils to provide therapeutic benefits. The essential oils are diluted in a carrier oil and then applied to the skin during the massage.
Aromatherapy is normally used through inhalation or as a topical application.
Inhalation: the oils evaporate into the air using a diffuser container, spray, or oil droplets, or breathed in, for example, in a steam bath.
Apart from providing a pleasant smell, aromatherapy oils can provide respiratory disinfection, decongestant, and psychological benefits.
Inhaling essential oils stimulates the olfactory system, the part of the brain connected to smell, including the nose and the brain.
Molecules that enter the nose or mouth pass to the lungs, and from there, to other parts of the body.
As the molecules reach the brain, they affect the limbic system, which is linked to emotions, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress, and hormone balance. In this way, essential oils can have a subtle, yet the holistic effect on the body.
Topical applications: massage oils, and bath and skincare products are absorbed through the skin. Massaging the area where the oil is to be applied can boost circulation and increase absorption. Some argue that areas that are richer in sweat glands and hair follicles, such as the head or the palms of the hand, may absorb the oils more effectively.
Essential oils are never applied directly to the skin. They must always be diluted with a carrier oil. Usually, a few drops of essential oil to an ounce of carrier oil is the concentration. The most common carrier oils are sweet almond oil or olive oil.
If there is no allergic response within 24 to 48 hours, it should be safe to use.
Almost any type of massage can be combined with aromatherapy, with different types of massage suited to different conditions. Some of the most well-known types of massage used alongside essential oils are Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and hot stone massage.
The essential oils may be mixed with a carrier oil and used as part of the massage, or they might be added to a diffuser for inhalation during the massage.
Swedish massage, also known as classical massage, is a type of full body massage. Therapists use varying pressures and techniques to release tension in the body and eliminate knots in the muscles. Swedish massage is a comfortable massage technique that is often used for relaxation and stress relief. This type of massage is ideal for people who are new to massage.
Essential oils commonly used during a Swedish massage include geranium, lavender, sweet orange, patchouli, and cedarwood.
Deep tissue massage is a technique mainly used for high levels of muscle tension or musculoskeletal problems including injuries or strains such as tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome. This massage technique puts emphasis on areas of the body where you might be suffering from high muscle tension or pain.
Essential oils commonly used during a deep tissue massage to reduce pain, inflammation, or swelling include eucalyptus, chamomile, rosemary, peppermint, and marjoram.
The hot stone massage is designed for ultimate relaxation. This massage technique uses hot lava stones strategically placed on the body to increase blood circulation. The stones should be hot enough to stimulate blood flow but not so hot as to burn. This type of massage helps to relieve aches and muscle spasms whilst supporting wellness.
Ylang ylang, palmarosa, and chamomile essential oils are often used during hot stone massages to foster relaxation and promote sleep.
Scalp massages are great for relaxation. In fact, a 2016 study found that scalp massages can also help lower blood pressure and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
But add in aromatherapy, and they can also encourage hair growth and help ease tension headaches and migraines. Some of the most popular essential oils for aromatherapy scalp massage which offer these benefits include lavender, peppermint, and rosemary.
Bergamot is also a popular essential oil for aromatherapy scalp massages. This essential oil helps to soften and tame curly hair, leaving it silky and smooth. If you want to feel like you’ve just left a spa, bergamot oil is a great option.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that contain the natural chemicals that give plants their scent. These compounds can have medicinal properties and can be used in a variety of ways, including inhalation and topical application. It is believed that some essential oils have healing and cleansing properties on the body. There are a few ways in which the body can interact with the essential oils. In aromatherapy, the most common ways of interaction are through the skin and inhalation. A therapist may be using oil while applying a treatment and have another container of oil open for the scent.
If you’re a wound-up stress ball and finding it difficult to get a good night’s sleep, an aromatherapy massage is just what you need. It’s so relaxing that some people even fall asleep during a massage and here’s why
Aromatherapy Massage has many benefits. It can help to:
-Reduce stress and anxiety
-Promote relaxation
-Ease muscle tension and pain
-Improve sleep quality
-Boost energy levels
- Improve circulation
Some types of psoriasis may find relief with aromatherapy, but a healthcare professional should advise about use and application.
Digestive problems may benefit from peppermint oil, but it should not be ingested.
Toothache and mouth sores can be relieved by clove oil, but this, too, should only be applied topically and not swallowed.
A healthcare professional should always be consulted before using any essential oils, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or are taking medication.
Debilitating migraines, back pain, sore muscles, tension headaches, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, neck pain, and more. Just name your pain and an aromatherapy massage can help. Studies show that massage can even relieve chronic long-term pain to give sufferers the reprieve they so desperately need.
Massage has long been used by athletes to relieve tense and sore muscles after physical exercise. In fact, just 10 minutes of massage can reduce inflammation and help your body recover more quickly. It’s actually been found to help muscles recover their strength by up to 60%.
Your therapist will conduct a medical history to determine the appropriate essential oil for you. A therapist will choose an oil depending on your needs and expectations. You need to let your massage therapist know if you have any allergies and smell preferences.
The pressure during the treatment may vary from light to strong, but that depends on your reason for seeing a therapist. For example, if you are having difficulties relaxing or sleeping, light pressure is probably the way to go whereas, if you have muscle tension and some aches, deeper pressure should do the trick
During an Aromatherapy massage session, you will be asked to inhale certain essential oils through your nose. The therapist will then massage these oils into your skin. The essential oils used in Aromatherapy massage can have different effects on the body depending on their chemical properties. Some common essential oils used in Aromatherapy massage include lavender, chamomile, and peppermint.
Aromatherapy Massage can be done as often as you like. However, it is generally recommended to receive a 60-minute session once or twice a week for maximum benefits.
Aromatherapy Massage is generally safe during pregnancy. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before receiving any type of massage, including Aromatherapy Massage.
Warning: You should avoid the following essential oils if you’re pregnant:
If you’re feeling stressed out, or just down in the dumps try an aromatherapy massage and see how it can help improve your mood and wellbeing.
- Choose an essential oil that suits your needs. For example, lavender is known for its calming properties, while peppermint is more invigorating.
- Make sure the room is warm enough so you don’t feel chilly during the massage.
- Undress to your comfort level – many people prefer to be completely naked, but you can keep your underwear on if you feel more comfortable.
- Lie on the massage table and relax! Let go of all your worries and tension as the therapist works their magic.
You should feel relaxed and rejuvenated after an aromatherapy massage – it’s the perfect way to unwind after a long week. If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try a hot stone massage or Thai massage? Both are great ways to relax and de-stress. Whichever type of massage you choose, make sure you book with a reputable therapist who is experienced in using essential oils. Happy massaging! Book a call now and feel the relaxation!
