An Aromatherapy Massage Could Be Just What The Doctor Ordered

Life can be stressful and, if you’re not careful, stress can begin to reek havoc on your body and mind. A great way to release stress pinned up in the body is by taking advantage of an aromatherapy massage.

What makes an aromatherapy massage different from other massages is the use of essential oils. In most cases, you can have an essential oil blend created specifically for you and your body’s current need.

When I had my first aromatherapy massage the experience beginning to end was a joy. I have suffered from tight shoulders and chronic lower back pain for years. As a treat to myself, and a way to alleviate the pain, I embarked on my first ever massage.

I arrived early to complete a questionnaire and spoke to the massage therapist about the issues I was experiencing. After the intake, he presented me with a bottles of essential oils that would help work out the tension and clear my head of fog and clutter. I smelled the oils one by one selecting which I preferred, and which I didn’t want to smell well after the massage was over.

From my selection he create a massage oil blend that would warm the muscles and release the tension. Together with gentle music and relaxing atmosphere, I was well on my way to aromatic heaven. I left the spa an hour later feeling lighter and euphoric. Since that day, I make it a point to treat my body to an aromatherapy massage, especially when my life gets crazy.

Now, I will admit that, depending where you go, massage can be a bit pricey, but they are well worth the cost. But, in those cases when it’s just not in the budget, create an aromatherapy spa experience at home.

Bringing It Home

The first thing you want to do is create a peaceful environment. You don’t want to be interrupted in the middle of the massage by the phone, cat or neighbor’s music. Small spaces are better than big and adds to the intimacy.

Find a level flat surface, such as the floor and lay down two sheets. The bed is not a good option, so skip that thought. If you have one, plug in your portable space heater to warm the room a bit. Massages are more beneficial if the person receiving the massage is naked, so the heater will help keep them warm during the massage.

Next, find some soothing music and adjust the lighting. You want to make the person as comfortable as possible so they can relax. Prepare your massage oil blend and keep it near by. Have the person lay between the sheets, allow one to be beneath them and the other on top. The key is to only expose the part of the body that is being massaged.

Pour a small amount of oil into the palm of your hands and rub them together. the friction will help warm the oil. Starting at the top with the head and neck, gently massage the body using a kneading motion. Work your way down one side of the body to the tips of the toes. Move to the other side and repeat. Be sure to massage those fingers, hands feet and toes. They hold a lot of tension as well. Reapply the oil your hands when needed and repeat on the other side, taking care to cover areas of the body not being massaged with the sheet.

As a rule, and being one who hates to chat during a massage, I would also suggest as little conversation as possible. The idea is to let the brain rest along with the body, and not have to focus on anything other than where you need more or less pressure applied in the massage.

Massage Blends

Add the following blends to 2 ounces of your favorite carrier oil.

Relieve Muscle Tension