Aromatherapy Massage - The Healing Power Of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy massage is the practice of using essential oils, usually lavender, chamomile, geranium, rose, jasmine or Rosemary for the purpose of healing or relaxing. The oils are extracted from natural plants and are therefore capable of applying directly to the skin, trapping them via an aromatherapy massage or adding them to the bath water for a soak in. These oils are known to have all of the healing properties of the natural plants themselves and can help to relieve a variety of ailments, though the most common are muscle spasms, pain, stiffness, sleeplessness, inflammation, headaches, arthritis and asthma. Although this isn't scientific evidence, there are many who swear by the benefits of aromatherapy massage and will often treat themselves to a massage when they feel the need.
One of the numerous ways a person may benefit from aromatherapy massage is via skin relaxation. Many oils used for aromatherapy massage are mild and so have no effect on the skin at all. Aromatherapy massage is therefore ideal for men and women who suffer from dry, cracked skin or other skin conditions that are prone to itching and irritation. Using the appropriate types of oils for your skin type you suffer from can ensure a long term and comfortable impact.
Another effect of aromatherapy massage treatment is that it can create a relaxed mood and improve overall mood. Many men and women find it is the aroma that helps them to relax, so in case you find that you're feeling under pressure or stress then this can provide you with the ideal level of relaxation. Once you have reached a relaxed mood you'll notice that your body muscles feel not as tense, though you should bear in mind that once your mood has reached this point your mind may be thinking much faster than normal. You could also use aromatherapy to treat pain and tension in your muscles and joints, as some types of oil have anti inflammatory properties that can decrease the symptoms of joint and muscle pain. This is also great news for people who get pain from lifting items, or sports injuries.
The effect of aromatherapy massage can also be enhanced if the essential oils used are combined with carrier oils. Aromatherapy massage with carrier oils such as grapefruit, vanilla and lavender supply an even more calming effect due to the natural aromatic properties of these carrier oils. If you have never tried aromatherapy massages with essential oils before then you should try a session with one carrier oil first to see if you can tolerate its effect on your body. If you are able to adapt to the effect then you might realize that you prefer to use essential oils instead.
To create aromatherapy massage more effective you'll also have to give it some time to work. Aromatherapy works well when you give it at least 10 minutes between sessions to allow the essential oil to have time to work on your body. During this period the essential oil helps to relax your muscles and tendons. After this time you should not do anything strenuous, even though you can certainly continue with your everyday routine as normal.
Using acupuncture to alleviate a headache is another way to give yourself a treat. Headaches can sometimes be caused by stress and anxiety, so using aromatherapy massage may be just what you will need to lower your stress levels. You should begin by having a warm, relaxing bath before beginning your aromatherapy massage; this will relax and soothe your entire body. After your bath you need to apply a great rich essential oil that will help to calm your nerves. You should then allow the oil settle in your scalp and start to rub it into your hair and scalp. This will alleviate any tension from your shoulders; the exact same goes for tension in your neck and face.
Some folks enjoy getting a excellent aromatherapy massage to soothe their toes. The great thing about foot massage is you don't need to go to a spa to get the wonderful results you can get to do it at home. All you need for this kind of massage is a loofah and a few great essential oil like lavender or Rosemary. Just rub these oils onto your feet and let them sit for a couple of minutes before getting into the shower. This will relieve any stress from your feet and skin; as well as supply the crucial nutrients to nourish your skin.
Of course one of the best ways to relax your entire body is through aromatherapy massage, but you do not have to stop there. In fact, by combining aromatherapy massage with other therapeutic techniques you may provide your entire body with the sort of treatment it needs to achieve total relaxation. For example, aqua therapy works wonders on burns or eczema in addition to helping to relieve stress and muscle tension. You can use a combination of essential oils using different therapeutic methods to decrease the effects of stress and enhance the overall health of your skin. The main thing is you make sure that all of these healing processes are working together in harmony to offer you the sort of care that you will need to maintain good health.
