There are many different types of massages available to you that focus on different parts of the body or healing approaches for pain, healing, muscle aches, stress, relaxation, etc. Here are some of the massage options available:
- Aromatherapy
- Swedish
- Hot stone
- Deep tissue
- Sports
- Trigger point
- Reflexology
- Shiatsu
- Prenatal
- Couples
- Chair
What is Aromatherapy Massage?
An aromatherapy massage is a Swedish massage using massage oil or lotion that contains essential oils which are highly concentrated plant oils. It is a holistic healing treatment to promote health and well-being and enhances both physical and emotional health. It can also go by essential oil therapy.
You inhale these essential oil molecules or absorb them through your skin during the massage. The essential oils are thought to promote beneficial changes in your mind and body by affecting the limbic system, a region of the brain known to influence the nervous system.
How long has aromatherapy been around?
“Humans have used aromatherapy for thousands of years. Ancient cultures in China, India, Egypt, and elsewhere incorporated aromatic plant components in resins, balms, and oils. These natural substances were used for medical and religious purposes. They were known to have both physical and psychological benefits.
Essential oils distillation is attributed to the Persians in the 10th century, though the practice may have been in use for a long time prior to this. Information about essential oil distillation was published in the 16th century in Germany. French physicians in the 19th century recognized the potential of essential oils in treating disease.
Medical doctors became more established in the 19th century and focused on using chemical drugs. However, the French and German doctors still recognized the role of natural botanicals in treating illness.
The term “aromatherapy” was coined by a French perfumer and chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé in a book he wrote on the topic that was published in 1937. He had previously discovered the healing potential of lavender in treating burns. The book discusses the use of essential oils in treating medical conditions,” according to Healthline.com.
Aromatherapy benefits
In aromatherapy, each essential oil used is said to have different properties. Some can calm and make you feel relaxed while others energize your mind or body. According to Healthline.com, “aromatherapy has the potential to treat many conditions, including:
- asthma
- back pain
- digestive disorders
- headache
- insomnia
- fatigue
- depression
- inflammation
- peripheral neuropathy
- pain
- PMS / menstrual issues
- stress
- alopecia
- cancer
- erectile dysfunction
- arthritis
- menopause
Each essential oil used in aromatherapy is said to have different properties. For example, some calm while others energize. The following lists some of the therapeutic uses of several oils for a few of today’s most common complaints. There are some real “multi-taskers,” like lavender, ylang ylang and bergamot oils that treat more than one problem.
- Stress– Lavender, Bergamot, Peppermint, Veitievr, Ylang Ylang
- Insomnia– Lavender, Chamomile, Neroli, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang
- Anxiety– Lavender, Bergamot, Sandalwood,
- Depression– Lavender, Peppermint
- Decongesting – Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Pine, Tea tree.”
Popular aromatherapy oils
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, the most popular essential oils are:
- clary sage
- cypress
- eucalyptus
- fennel
- geranium
- ginger
- helichrysum
- lavender
- lemon
- lemongrass
- mandarin
- neroli
- patchouli
- peppermint
- Roman chamomile
- rose
- rosemary
- tea tree
- Vetiver
- ylang ylang
How does it work?
Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as these:
- diffusers
- aromatic spritzers
- inhalers
- bathing salts
- body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application
- facial steamers
- hot and cold compresses
- clay masks
You can use these alone or in any combination. There are nearly one hundred types of essential oils available. Generally, people use the most popular oils.
Essential oils are available online, in health food stores, and in some regular supermarkets. It’s important to buy from a reputable producer since the oils aren’t regulated by the FDA. This ensures you’re buying a quality product that is 100 percent natural. It shouldn’t contain any additives or synthetic ingredients.
Give us a call at 727-772-0220 to schedule an aromatherapy massage.
I Got Your Back Massage Therapy is conveniently located at 1684 Alternate 19 in Palm Harbor. Our massage therapists are skilled in a number of techniques to help you improve your physical and mental health, including relaxation massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, reiki, and aromatherapy. Contact the professionals at I Got Your Back Massage Therapy and set up an appointment.
