The art of aromatherapy massage with essential oils, in which herbal rubs are used by therapists offering Swedish massage, provides double the pleasure of a conventional session and is believed to contribute an extra dimension to its benefits. Whether your goal is a pleasant experience or you need physical pain relief and healing, you will find aromatherapy enhances the experience.
The manipulation of soft tissue is a healing art developed over many centuries, with new techniques and old secrets constantly being incorporated in different schools of thought. Swedish massage, which is a method of stroking and kneading muscles, is especially suited to using scented lotions and rubs. Not only does this add to the pleasurable sensation, but studies have shown that the fragrances of plant essences have their own therapeutic value.
Modern science has sought to corroborate or debunk these theories. Research reveals that essential oils are not simple substances. Some, like rose oil, have been shown to be made up of hundreds of compounds. It is not clear which particular parts of a herbal extract do what, so it is generally believed to be wise to use natural, undiluted, and unprocessed oils, which are as varied as the plants they come from.
Lavender and chamomile are known for their soothing and relaxing properties. It is less well known that each of these is strongly antibacterial as well. Peppermint and the other mints are known to be purifying and stimulating. Other plant products can promote mental clarity, serve as aphrodisiacs, take soreness out of muscles, enhance restful sleep, energize, or calm.
It is easy to see why using different plant extracts works well in muscle and soft tissue manipulation. If you have sore muscles from stress and nervous tension, try lavender. If you are trying to increase circulation to speed healing, use a vibrant mint. To boost the immune system, try the pungent rosemary herb. Combining the healing touch of a trained therapist and the correctly blended essence of healing plants is as old as recorded history.
Aromatherapy is a field in itself, used without massage as well as with. There are scented candles, diffuser oil, bath oil and salts, and inhalers that many enthusiasts use at all times of the day. An energizing blend can be used during the work day, a relaxing mixture can be diffused in the living room in the evening, and a drop of a sleep-inducing blend put on a hot light bulb just after you turn it off for the night.
The internet is a great resource for information on the combined use of both of these healing techniques. You can also find many spas, health clinics, and individual therapists who offer this service. If you have a favorite masseur who does not, you can buy your own product and take it with you to your next session. There are many products online. You may want to stick to organically grown plant extracts, since they will be rubbed into your skin, and you will inhale them into your lungs.
While increasing the pleasure, the scented rubs contribute pain relieving, muscle toning, and emotion balancing benefits of their own to the treatment. If you have never tried aromatherapy massage with essential oils, a great treat is in store for you.
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