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Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy
is the use of certain therapeutic oils that
are usually massaged into the body, run into
a warm bath or inhaled. It is a popular, enjoyable
way an aromatherpist can help someone maintain
and enhance well-being, health, beauty and
lifestyle.There are many reputable therapists
throughout the country so ensure they are
qualified therapists.
For centuries, mankind has used plants, many of them fragrant, in the treatment of common ailments, as well as in cosmetics and around the home, and aromatherapy can be seen as a natural extention of these practices.
Aromatherapy can help relax, uplift, revitalise or restore the body and spirit depending on the oil used and is a natural aid in maintaining the body's own sense of balance and well-being, at the same time working on mood enhancement and ambience.
It's hard to imagine a more enjoyable health treatment than a deep, relaxing massage accompanied by the aura of sweet-smelling oils.
A Brief History
Nobody
knows exactly when and where the ancient healing
art of aromatherapy began although we know
from paintings in Egyptian tombs that it was
used extensively by them. Its use is also
recorded in ancient Chinese writings and the
use of oils found its way to Britain with
the Romans in the 13th Century. Indeed, there
are Bible references to the use of oils in
anointing - think of the Three Kings with
their precious gifts of frankincense and myrrh!
In the early 20th century, a French chemist,
René Maurice Gattefosse, accidentally
discovered the healing power of lavender when
he plunged his hand into it after receiving
a bad burn in his laboratory. In a short time
the burn had healed without forming a blister
or leaving a scar. He then went on to treat
soldiers in the First World War. Later his
work was built upon by a French physician,
Dr Jean Valnet and later a French beautician
and biochemist, Marguerite Maury, developed
a massage and beauty programme to incorporate
the use of essential oils, which she introduced
into Britain.
How does it work?
Essential
oils are produced by tiny glands in the petals,
leaves, stems, bark and wood of many plants,
trees and herbs. In nature they are released
slowly but when crushed or heated, these oil
glands burst releasing the aroma more strongly.
These essential oils are extracted by various
methods to leave a pure essential oil and
fall into four categories:
1) Stimulating : to invigorate the
body and raise the spirits
2) Sedative : to relax and calm the
body and mind
3) Regulating : to regulate the main
bodily functions
4) Euphoric : to uplift emotions
These can be used in any of the following
ways :
by massage: oils can penetrate the skin and
are absorbed into the body fluids and bloodstream
to work internally
by aroma alone : this is believed to have
the quickest beneficial effect as smell has
been shown to have an immediate effect on
the brain, almost instantly releasing desired
hormones (think about the effect of freshly
ground coffee, or freshly baked bread)
by inhalation: to help clear the head, again
working on the brain
by adding to baths:- working at two levels
by inhalation and by absorption into the skin
by use of skin products, compresses etc
Oils are blended for the client's needs, depending
on the nature of the problem and can treat
several conditions at the same time.
Warning : Aromatherapy oils are freely available but please take great care. Oils should not be used neat on the skin or ingested. If in doubt, don't take the risk. Contact a qualified aromatherapist like myself.
What is it used for?
- Aromatherapy has been used for a wide range of illnesses :
- Digestive problems
- Aches and pains
- Arthritis
- Period pains and problems
- Headaches and migraines
- Sinusitis
- Depression
- Stress and anxiety
- Skin complaints such as psoriasis and eczema
- Insomnia
Are
there any side effects?
Aromatherapy is virtually free from side effects
and is suitable for people of all ages. You
may feel thirsty and experience more visits
to the toilet, but this is nature's way of
releasing the toxins within the body and I
advise drinking plenty of water after the
treatment to help.
However, clients who are pregnant or who suffer
with epilepsy or high blood pressure should
only consult a qualified therapist.
What
a typical Session entails
After the first consultation when I ask for
full details regarding medical history, lifestyle,
diet etc, you are asked to undress to your
underwear - there is no need to feel embarrassed
because you are fully covered with towels
whilst on the couch and only the area of the
body that I'm working is uncovered. The treatment
uses various massage techniques aimed at relieving
tension, draining lymph and improving circulation
so that the oils can circulate through the
body.
You then relax, enjoy the relaxing music,
savour the aroma of the oils and let me do
all the work. And please, don't be too upset
if I have to wake you up to turn you, as most
people normally fall asleep. But don't worry,
you'll soon drift off again.
How
much does it cost?
The sessions last around 1hr15mins at a cost
of €50 or ½ hr for back and shoulder
massages at a cost of €35.
However,
treatments can be tailored to suit your needs,
for example including an aromatherapy facial
with prices pro rata.
Also offered is a wide range of products that
are blended just for you at various prices
for use at home, such as bath oils or body
lotions.
After the initial consultation, I can usually
advise how many sessions you may require but
generally I find that most clients try to
at least "pamper" themselves once
a month to maintain their well-being.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Here
is a list of some typical questions I'm frequently
asked. Hopefully anything you might want to
know is covered somewhere on this page. If
it isn't, don't hesitate to contact me.
Can I have a bath or shower when I get home?
You can if you wish but where possible DON'T.
It is preferable to leave the residue of oils
on the skin if possible so that they can continue
to work
Can
I use essentail oil neat on the skin?
All oils should be diluted before applying
to the skin but lavender can be used neat
for first aid treatments. Tea Tree can also
be used neat but should be used in spot treatment,
that is, by putting the oil onto a cotton
bud and then applying the bud to the skin.
Can
I stop taking my medication?
No - it is best to carry on with any medication.
In some cases, dosage may have to be altered
but this will only be done with doctor's approval.
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