What Is Aromatherapy Massage?
Karina Jacobsen
Thinking about getting a massage? Whether you've got sore,
tense muscles or just need to relax, an aromatherapy massage is
definitely worth a try. Different from conventional massages,
this technique utilizes many types of essential oils, wherein
they are massaged into the skin.
While it's possible to massage many areas of your own body like
your head/temples or your feet, it's still better to let someone
else do it for you to get the most out of your massage. Massages
are for relaxation and how much can you relax if you doing all
the work? Significant others are always great at spur of the
moment massages, however, for the best massage, consider
finding a professional.
A good professional or masseuse knows that the atmosphere where
you get a massage is as important as the massage itself. Sounds
of nature and low lighting are essential in helping you focus
and relaxing throughout your massage. While it's not realistic
to expect a massage in the middle of a rushing stream or
waterfall, sounds of nature CDs can be substituted for the real
thing and work just as well.
A proper massage, one that is most beneficial to the body as
well as the mind, would include a firm, comfortable surface to
lie on. Your body temperature should be consistent, not hot or
cold but warm. To achieve this, there should be climate control
and you should be provided a large, soft towel to cover
yourself. Using the towel is totally at your discretion, many
people prefer to be completely uncovered.
You may be wondering; what exactly are essential oils? They are
highly concentrate oils extracted from plants then mixed for
dilution with carrier oils or hydrosols. They are too strong to
be applied directly to the skin without first diluting them, for
most people. And too, essential oils are costly, making it more
cost-effective to dilute them.
There are essential oils for every need; you choose which oil
depending on what your need is. If it is your goal to relax,
lavender is a wonderful choice. If however, you have sore,
aching muscles, you might choose peppermint to soothe them.
Apricot Kernel, grapeseed and sweet almond are all popular
carrier oils for mixing.
When mixing carrier oils and essential oils, use 1-2 ounces of
the carrier oil for the entire body. Mineral oil is also
considered carrier oil; however, it is not generally used for
mixing and never recommended. Here are some guidelines to
follow when mixing: Lavender oil should be mixed at a ratio of
four drops to one tablespoon of carrier oil, while Petigrain
and Frankincense oils should be mixed at a ratio of one drop to
one tablespoon of carrier oil.
If you plan to be the one on the other side of the table,
giving the massage, there are a few things you should know
before you begin. For maximum effectiveness, use a small amount
of oil, pouring it directly into the palm of your hand. Rub your
hands together, causing friction to warm the oil before you
apply it to the body. When rubbing the oil into the skin, use a
combination of large and small circular motions and long
strokes, varying your motion and speed. Don't be afraid to add
more oil if you hands begin to skip or drag.
About The Author: Karina Jacobsen is a staff writer at
http://www.alternativehealthadvisor.com and is an occasional
contributor to several other websites, including
http://www.wireless-times.com
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