Welcome to Aromatherapy Massage
A brief history of Aromatherapy
The roots and fundamentals of Aromatherapy can be traced back to nearly 3000
years before Christ, when the ancient Egyptians used the basics of Aromatherapy
in their daily lives. Historical records show that Egyptians burned incense made
from aromatic woods and other herbs to honour their gods. Also royal harems and
guest houses used many aromatic oils very profusely to satisfy many important
guests. Aromatherapy has its roots in the most ancient healing and therapeutic
practices. Medicinal plants are used to cure many ailments and used in many
sacred rituals to evoke different states of consciousness.
However, the term aromatherapy was not applied until the 20th century. The word
aromatherapy is derived from two Greek words: ‘aroma’ meaning fragrance or
pleasant smell, and ‘therapia’ or ‘therapy’ meaning healing or treatment.
Aromatherapy is a therapy that uses aromatic oils, which are derived from
leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers of plants. They are blended in
carrier oil (another oil used for dilution), before being used for body
massages, inhalation and baths. It refreshes and de-stresses the mind and
induces a sense of well-being. Since, the smell detection centre in the human
brain is closely linked with the emotional centre, aromatherapy is said to
affect your moods. Various essential oils are used in aromatherapy to obtain
various results. Some are great sleep inducers, some are great for the skin and
some others are good stress busters.
Aromatherapy oils may be inhaled directly (or steam inhaled), massaged into the
skin or added to warm bath water. Needless to say, natural oils are better than
synthetic oils as it proved better therapeutic benefits. Before use, these oils
must be diluted with carrier oils such as almond, jojoba, sunflower or wheat
germ oils. If concentrated oils are massaged directly, they may play havoc on
the skin. Diluted oils are absorbed by the skin and enter the circulatory
system, which in turn, help to relax and rejuvenate.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
The benefits of aromatherapy depend
on the type of
essential oils that are used.
Relieves stress and tension
Aromatherapy is a safe, natural therapy.
It is a good way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body. You do not
have to have a condition to have Aromatherapy, it is a very relaxing therapy and
a good time for you and your body to relax and watch the world go by.
After treatment
Following your treatment you may experience minor reactions, there is no need to
worry as these are only temporary and occur as the toxins are dispersed from
your body. This will be fully explained to you at the treatment.
Aftercare
In order to reduce the chance of any temporary adverse side effects you should
try to do the following:
Drink plenty of water.
Listen to your body: If you feel tired, simply rest, if you feel energetic, go
for a short walk.
Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
Eat light meals.
Will I have to undress?
For a full body massage you will need to remove all clothes except your pants.
This is done privately and then you will lie face down on the couch with a towel
over you. Your modesty is a priority.
What happens in a treatment session?
On your first visit I will talk to you about your lifestyle, diet and medical
history. This session will last just under 2 hours, subsequent sessions will
last about 1.5 hours. Such information is confidential.
I will talk through with you the conditions I will treat and then advise you on
which oils I will use.
As a qualified Aromatherapist I will give you the best and most appropriate
treatment.
It's part of my job to make you feel comfortable. I will ask for feedback, such
as; 'How's the pressure? Is it too light, too strong, or about right?' If you
have regular treatments your response to this question will vary, according to
your state of health and energy levels. It's not necessary to chat during a
session, and you are more likely to benefit if you can quietly focus on your
breathing and bodily sensations. You may find it more relaxing with your eyes
shut. It is entirely up to you.
What is the cost?