What is Aromatherapy? – A complete guide

All the questions you had about aromatherapy massage but did not know whom to ask. Yep, you’re welcome! Aromatherapy massage is a type of massage therapy that uses ...

3 min read

All the questions you had about aromatherapy massage but did not know whom to ask. Yep, you’re welcome!

Aromatherapy massage is a type of massage therapy that uses essential oils to promote relaxation and well-being. Essential oils have long been known for their therapeutic value and have often been used as part massage therapy to help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Ayurveda is also known to use healing scents for different healing purposes. Herbs, floral waters, sandalwood have all been part of India’s ancient medical practice. It just wasn’t labelled as aromatherapy.

So, before we get into the benefits of aromatherapy massage, let’s first understand it a little better, shall we?

What is an aromatherapy massage good for?

An aromatherapy massage is more than just a sensory delight; it offers a myriad of therapeutic benefits. Aromatherapy massage brings together the art of massage with the use of essential oils. Essential oils are extracted from plants, flowers, and herbs and whose medicinal properties and aroma helps reduce stress, eases muscle tension, alleviates ailments like headaches and insomnia, and also promotes relaxation.

What’s the difference between Swedish massage and aromatherapy massage?

Swedish massage uses techniques such as kneading and long strokes to help you relax. Aromatherapy follows similar technique but uses essential oils to enhance the overall massage experience. The aromatic oils offer extra therapeutic benefits.

Which is better: aromatherapy or deep tissue massage?

That would depend on what you’re looking for from your massage session. A deep tissue massage involves a lot of pressure and targets specific muscle groups and connective tissues. It is not always the most relaxing massage mostly because its objective is to help reduce muscle stiffness, chronic pain, etc. 

An aromatherapy massage can be very relaxing because it involves gentle strokes and the use of mood-enhancing essential oils. 

What happens in a full body aromatherapy massage?

A full-body aromatherapy massage is a comprehensive experience that covers head to toe. Beginning with a consultation to determine your preferences and any specific concerns, the therapist selects essential oils tailored to your needs.

As you lie on the massage table, the therapist applies gentle to moderate pressure, incorporating a variety of massage techniques. The soothing scents of the essential oils permeate the air, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the physical benefits of the massage.

Can you shower after an aromatherapy massage?

You must avoid showering for a few hours after an aromatherapy massage session. Your massage therapist has just massaged the essential oils into your skin. These oils have therapeutic effects which can only take effect if you let the oils stay on you for some time.

However, if you do need to shower immediately, be mindful of using mild, fragrance-free soap to preserve the aromatic essence on your skin.

How often should I get an aromatherapy massage?

A monthly aromatherapy massage session should do you good. However, if you’re looking to address a specific issue, you could do well consulting a doctor before you decide on any further course of action.

Benefits of an Aromatherapy Massage:

  1. Helps reduce stress
  2. Improves sleep quality
  3. Puts you in a better mood
  4. Helps relieve pain
  5. Enhances blood circulation
  6. Balances hormones
  7. Nourishes Skin
  8. Improves digestion

Helps reduce stress

Essential oils such as chamomile and lavender help promote relaxation and tranquility. Aromatherapy massage has profound stress-relieving effects, with essential oils like lavender and chamomile promoting relaxation and tranquility.

Improves sleep quality

Certain essential oils, such as bergamot and lavender possess calming properties that can enhance sleep quality and alleviate insomnia. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself nodding off after (or even during) an aromatherapy massage session.

Puts you in a better mood

Feeling low? Turns out aromatherapy massage has a solution for that too. By using citrusy oils like orange or grapefruit that help energise your state of mind, an aromatherapy massage can uplift your mood too.

Helps relieve pain

Essential oils such as peppermint and eucalyptus help alleviate muscle pain and headaches. So, if you’re feeling any of these aches and pains, tell your therapist and they’ll pull out the relevant essential oil for you.

Enhances blood circulation

The massage techniques, coupled with certain oils like rosemary, can stimulate blood flow, promoting better oxygenation of tissues and overall cardiovascular health.

Balances hormones

Certain essential oils can help influence hormonal balance so an aromatherapy massage can potentially helping regulate hormones and reduce menstrual discomfort.

Nourishes skin

Essential oils like jojoba or almond oil are commonly used in an aromatherapy massage because they nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple.

Improves digestion

An aromatherapy massage with certain oils like ginger or peppermint can actually aid digestion when applied topically. So, if you’re feeling bloated or feeling the effects of indigestion, don’t hesitate to tell your massage therapist about it.

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