February 25, 2008

The Benefits of an Aromatherapy Massage

The effects of stress on the human body are not to be ignored. From early warning signs such as tension headaches or a stiff neck, to more severe ailments such as stroke or heart attack, stress wreaks havoc on the human body, mind, and emotions.

Nervous conditions, depression, anxiety, and phobias are all attributed to (in some part) or are triggered by stress. Many people who suffer from stress related conditions are often advised by their medical caregivers to avoid stress-causing incidents at all costs. Though this may be harder to achieve than at first realized, there are many pro-active steps that you can take to ensure that the negative effects of stress don't overshadow your life and ultimately bring pain, sickness, and disease.

One of the most beneficial ways that you can counteract the negative effects of stress in your life is to incorporate a daily routine of massage. More than just simply moving your body, an aromatherapy massage combines the art of aromatherapy with the benefits of massage.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using fragrant herbs and flowers to evoke emotions of peace and tranquility, while the skin absorbs the healing properties inherent to that particular herb. More than one herb may be combined allowing the recipient to receive additional benefits at once. Massage is a great way to relieve instantaneous benefits from herbs because the oil is worked directly into the skin and absorbed.

Using aromatherapy candles during a massage will add great relaxation and enhance the mood. You can choose candles that compliment the same oils that you will use in your Massage Oils. Make sure that you use oils that blend well. Choose oils for your massage that will help the specific conditions that you are experiencing. For instance, an aromatherapy massage can deal with more problems than just too much stress, although if your purpose is to bring relaxation, you can use lavender, chamomile, and rose essential oils. Yet you can use different essential oils that will treat other conditions during your massage.
You can make your own aromatherapy massage oils by choosing Essential Oils that blend well together and adding them to a carrier oil. Be sure to choose Essential Oils that are gentle to the skin and don't cause skin irritation. You may want to test some of the oils on your skin before using as well. Some of the more popular carrier oils include Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, Apricot Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Coconut Oil.

Here are some great Essential Oils that make wonderful aromatherapy Massage oils and the healing properties that they contain. To relieve anxiety and tension consider using Lavender, Arnica, Calendula, Jasmine, and Frankincense. For a quick Anti Stress Massage Oil, try blending Oil of Sage with Lemon and Lavender.

Cedarwood blends well with Patchouli, Sandalwood, Eucalyptus, and Lavender. Cedarwood makes excellent calming massage oil. Chamomile added to your choice of carrier oil will provide instant relaxation and will enhance sleep. Try a deep Chamomile massage (preferably after a nice cup of Chamomile tea) for those who are suffering from Insomnia.