Aromatherapy Massage
By Free Massage Therapists Listing
Aromatherapy massage refers to the rubbing and kneading of the skin with essential plant oils with the intent of promoting relaxation, an increased sense of well being, and overall healing. Aromatherapy is primarily slow, gentle, rhythmic movements called effleurage. Effleurage is a French word meaning to skim or to lightly touch on. Essential oils are a volatile, highly concentrated plant extracts, derived from leaves, bark, roots, seeds resins and flowers. These oils are extracted by the means of steam distillation, cold expression, or fixed oil or alcohol extraction.
The word aromatherapy is derived from two words aroma which means smell and therapy which stands for healing. There are two different mechanisms involved in the effects of aromatherapy on a person's mood or health. The first is the effect of the aroma on the brain, more specifically the limbic system through the olfactory system. The nostrils are attached to the part of the brain that is the limbic system. The limbic system controls emotions and influences the nervous system and hormones. Upon inhalation of the essential oil molecules, messages are sent to the limbic system that can affect the heart rate, stress level, blood pressure, respiratory rate, memory, digestion, and the immune system.Essential oils are highly concentrated and should not be used directly. The oils are selected by the massage therapist based on the client's individual needs and are blended with a carrier oil - such as jojoba or grape seed oil before being applied to the skin. It is also believed that the essential oils can be absorbed directly through the skin producing a variety of results depending on the plant used. A calming effect can be produced by using chamomile, lavender, and geranium. An uplifting effect can be produced by using ylang ylang, clary, sage, rose, and neroli. For an energizing effect, rosemary is a good essential oil to use in the massage. Rosemary is also good for cleansing. During cold and flu season, decongestant effects may be desired and can be produced by using eucalyptus, pine, and tea tree oils. Access to these essential oils is becoming more available; therefore, your masseuse may suggest a blend of oils to use at home in between your massages.
Aromatherapy should not be confused with fragrances or perfume oils. Fragrances are often made from chemicals, and lack the therapeutic properties of essential oils. All aromatherapy massages should involve a consultation prior to the massage so that the masseuse can ask a series of health related questions which will give them a good idea of the whole body; the mind, body, and spirit. Based on the information collected, the appropriate essential oils will be selected for use during the Aromatherapy massage.
|
|
