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Aromatherapy
Uses: Massage
Massaging essential oils into the skin is a
commonly used aromatherapy technique and one that'll enable you
to reap tremendous therapeutic benefits. If you've never had a
massage, you don't know what you're missing. After a massage
session, you'll feel amazingly relaxed and rejuvenated. Here
are some tips on getting the most out of your aromatherapy
massage.
You'll reap the maximum benefit if you have
someone else give you a massage. You can massage some areas of
your body yourself, such as your feet and your temples, but
what you really need to focus on while getting a massage is
relaxing. You'll never be able to fully relax if you're doing
the work, no matter how minimal. While you can enlist the help
of just about anybody, you'll be better off if your massage is
performed by a professional.
The person you choose for your massage is
just as important as the aromatherapy massage environment. It
should be somewhat darkened and very quiet. The only noises you
should hear are natural ones such as bubbling brooks, crashing
waves, a gentle rain or other similarly soothing sounds. If you
can't listen to the real thing, don't worry. Pre-recorded
sounds work just fine.
You'll be most comfortable and reap the most
benefits if you're lying on a firm but comfortable surface.
You'll also be more relaxed if you're warm so be sure you're
partially covered with a soft, luxurious towel. If you're okay
not being covered, then have a towel nearby in case you care to
use it later on. A relaxed state will cause the body's
metabolism rate to slow, which will cause the body temperature
to
lower.
Essential oils are best and are generally
what's used for massage. Essential oils are extracted from
plant material and they're most effective when they're diluted
with carrier oils or hydrosols. Essential oils are highly
concentrated oils and they can be too strong for some skin when
used alone. Plus essential oils can be expensive so
economically it makes sense to mix them with carrier
oils.
The essential oils you choose depend on the
benefits you desire. Lavender is excellent for relaxing while
peppermint is good for soothing sore muscles. Good carrier oils
to use for massage include apricot kernel, sweet almond and
grapeseed.
As a general rule, you'll need 1 to 2 ounces
of carrier oil to massage the entire body. The only carrier oil
that is not recommended for use in massage is mineral
oil.
If you're the one who are giving a massage
pour a small amount of oil into your hands first to allow them
to warm slightly. Rub into skin using a combination of long
strokes, and large and small circular motions. Continually vary
both the speed and the motion of the massage. When hand
movements begin to 'drag' it's time to use more
oil.
Massage oil recipes for
relaxation:
- Lavender
essential oils – Mix 4 drops for every tablespoon of
carrier oil
- Petitgrain
essential oils – Mix 1 drop for every tablespoon of carrier
oil
- Frankincense essential oils – Mix 1 drop
for every tablespoon of carrier
oil
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