What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils extracted from aromatic plants to improve physical and emotional health and enhance wellbeing.

How does Aromatherapy Massage work?

Aromatherapy massage is a deeply relaxing treatment which combines two very powerful forms of therapy:

• Massage (touch and manipulation)
  
  
• The natural therapeutic properties of essential oils (e.g. anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, anti-viral etc)

Essential oils can be administered in different ways. One of the most pleasant and relaxing involves applying the oils through massage. Massage in itself has many physiological and psychological benefits.

Essential Oils - the power of smell

Essential oils used in Aromatherapy Massage have two effects upon a person:

1. Their fragrances are inhaled into the nose where the olfactory receptors transport odours to a part of the brain called the limbic system. This area controls a person’s moods and emotions. Research has shown that the smell of lavender increases alpha waves in the back of the head causing relaxation, whilst the smell of jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head which stimulate and increase alertness.
   
   
2. Each essential oil has unique therapeutic properties (anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory etc), which are utilised by the body to aid good health and prevent disease. The oils are absorbed by the skin circulated in the bloodstream having a positive effect on a specific organ or function of the body.

How can Aromatherapy Massage help you?

In addition to the many benefits of massage, essential oils can help numerous physical and emotional ailments, including:

• Stress
  
• Depression
  
• Anxiety
  
• Eczema
  
• Aches and pains
  
• Colds
  
• Fatigue
  
• Headaches and migraines
  
• Hangover
  
• Sleep disorders and many more

An Aromatherapy massage is ideal for relaxing, unwinding and letting go of everyday stresses and strains.

If you have never experienced a complementary therapy before it may be useful to know what to expect.

Prior to the treatment there will be a consultation to discuss your health, lifestyle and wellbeing. With this valuable information the treatment will be tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that you derive maximum benefit and enjoyment.

If you are receiving an Aromatherapy or Hot Stone Massage you will then be given privacy to undress to your underwear and relax on the comfortably padded massage couch (Reflexology and Ear Candling treatments are carried out fully clothed). Rest assured that your modesty will be respected - you will be covered with a sheet/blanket at all times and only the area being treated will be uncovered. Calming music will relax your mind and body as the treatment begins.

Following the treatment you will be given time to readjust from your state of relaxation ready to face the hustle and bustle of the outside world. You will be provided with aftercare advice that will allow you to optimise the feeling of wellbeing long after treatment.