Aromatherapy and Massage: A Sweet Combination

Many people are aware of the positive aspects of massage therapy. Stress release, total relaxation, and relief from chronic muscle complaints are some areas that this treatment targets. Now, imagine using essential oils to compliment the above effects. By combining the healing properties of Aromatherapy with the calming touch of massage, clients undergo a complete holistic experience.

Massage is derived from a primitive instinct. It is inherent in human nature to use ‘touch’ to comfort and heal. Hugging, patting, even kissing a child’s scraped knee are all instinctive responses ‘to making it better’. Not only does this help to relieve physical pain, but it also makes one feel emotionally secure. Without conscious intent, we generate a small form of holistic care. This, the act of touching, combines the physical and emotional sides of what we consider to be ‘care’.

Essential oils complete the holistic approach by affecting the mind. Due to the fact that these oils stimulate the limbic system, the brains own healing mechanism is triggered. By inhaling these fragrances during therapy, the scents own healing power enters the bloodstream. When these oils activate the olfactory bulb, it send electrical impulses to the Limbic system, which affects emotional behaviour. This is why people feel invigorated when they smell Rosemary and Basil, and calmed by Chamomile and Jasmine.

The skin absorbs the oils approximately two hours after the massage as the body’s tissue/cells receive most of the physical benefit. As the oils become absorbed into the vital organs of the body, the effect the healing process, prevent illness and disease, improve circulation and eliminate toxins. Other benefits from using these oils are that they can help to relieve stress, headaches, arthritis, muscle pains and other chronic complaints.

Therapists can administer massages in unique ways, as they may have different strokes, touches, and formal training. But the main aspect to remember is that the clients’ needs should come first. By sending positive energy and having a giving heart, all can benefit. If the masseuse is ‘in tune’ with his/her client, then he/she can pick up the patients ‘energy’. Subsequently, the body’s energy flow can help to release blockages, allowing the client to help heal him or herself. The first couple of minutes into the therapy can establish a healing bond between the parties involved; this is a very important factor that can contribute to a patients healing. Despite being unaware of the reciprocal affect, the client may also help to heal his/her therapist.

The practical aspect basically consists of an assessment and massage. Before the massage itself, I perform a full assessment to determine a clients needs. The checking of the lymph nodes, spinal columns, and overall circulation are just part of the consultation. These procedures all combine to determine what specific oils will be used in the session. I usually choose four essential oils that are blended into a carrier oil; one of which is always a stress relaxant. My practice is based upon the fundamentals of European Lymphatic Drainage. By concentrating my strokes towards the lymph glands, this helps to expel toxins from the body’s system. Therefore it is important to drink two glasses of water following the therapy to expel unwanted wastes.

Due to the flexibility of such therapy, additional time can be concentrated toward chronic ailments (i.e. back/neck complaints). Such attention relaxes the client to the extent of sleep-a further combatant to stress. They awake rejuvenated and refreshed as a result of the combination of these techniques.

This is the main focus of Aromatherapy-Massage: to combine several of the body’s senses in effectual healing. Other orthodox medical practices can temporarily ‘heal the client’ but usually fails to help the client ‘to heal themselves’. This is where Aromatherapy-Massage excels as a treatment. Bu using scent and touch together, the body’s healing is heightened not only by the therapist, but also by the client.

Kal Kotecha, http://www.aromatherapy.ca (source: naturalhealthweb)

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