Fri 27 Mar 2009
Aromatherapy is defined as an alternative form of medical practice that is different from the commonly accepted mainstream medical practice. In aromatherapy, the use of essential oils to be used to bring about the desired effects is done. These oils are rubbed on the body and they are responsible for causing a relaxed, stress-free feeling. In addition, these aromatherapy massage oils help to alleviate muscle tension problem and improve the body’s circulation.
A base oil is added the aromatherapy massage oil so that the overall mixture produces the desired therapeutic healing effects. These essential oils enter the body in either of the 2 ways. One is by being absorbed by the body during the massage process. Once in, they enter the bloodstream and are carried to the locations where they will serve the best. The other way these aromatherapy massage oils may enter the body is by being inhaled. This usually happens during the massage process too. It can thus be seen that aromatherapy has both the benefits of an average massage as well as the health benefits of the essential oils.
The practice of using essential oils in massage therapies is not new. Many aromatherapists will be quick to point out to their clients the many benefits of aromatherapy and recommend them to relieve stress and other problems.
Another advantage of going for an aromatherapy treatment is the fact that you get to choose the essential oil you want applied on your body. Masseuse will usually have a number of bottles of aromatherapy massage oils; both blended and unblended giving one a wide variety of options. They may also mix a blend for you, apply it on your body and carry the remaining one home for your do-it-yourself aromatherapy massage.
All essential oils used in aromatherapy treatments have been extracted from plants. There are a number of processes used to ensure the extracts are pure. Whether by distillation or by expression, the essential oils are then packed in bottles ready for use. These oils come in many flavors ranging from eucalyptus, grapefruit oils to myrtle.
Aromatherapy massage oil rubbing usually feels great. Apart from that however, there is yet another benefit. The massage experience is much more fulfilling due to the scents released. On the other hand, the essential oils can help tone and moisturize the skin.
These massages also tend to be more effective since the oil makes the hand movements easier and much smoother and thus, hard-to-reach muscles and deep points can be kneaded resulting in a more effective and relaxing massage. Any aromatherapy massage oil used should thus be not only fun, but also help heal old wounds.
Aromatherapy treatments and massages are different from others because they provide that mind and body connection. At the time of application, the oils get to the brain by inhaling. Eventually once absorbed, they can penetrate the body and bloodstream and affect the other body parts. Furthermore, the oils can be used as detergents or to wash around the house. The superiority of aromatherapy is thus, largely because of this mind body connection that other health options do not have.
