Aromatherapy massage

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From the heady scent of rose to the zesty tang of lemon, of all of our senses it is the sense of small which has the deepest impact on our memories, and sense of wellbeing. Aromatherapy massage combines the benefits of massage with those of essential oils to create a treatment which is both luxurious and health promoting.

Essential oils are compounds obtained from plants at concentrated levels. They are the volatile elements obtained by steam or distillation. Such oils have been used in treatments since the ancient Egyptians. They are believed to contain healing properties. For example, lavender has a host of uses but has been shown to help heal burns quickly and without scarring. This was first discovered by the founder of modern aromatherapy Rene-Maurice Gattefosse and was put to good use in France with soldiers there during the First World War. There are hundreds of different essential oils available, each of which has its own healing properties. A trained practitioner is familiar with the benefits of each as well as skillful ways in which to combine them to maximize their power.

When you arrive for a treatment your therapist will discuss your health and general history with you and identify any particular issues or concerns which you would like to address. Based on this they will then arrive at a unique combination of essential oils which will be applied as part of the massage. These could be designed to energize, relax, uplift, or ease specific conditions such as fatigue or chronic back pain. Some therapists believe that the client's own instincts should guide the process and will offer you a selection of fragrant oils to choose from. Aromatherapy aims to be as natural and holistic a process as possible.

Once the oils have been chosen, the therapist combines them with a base oil such as almond oil so that they can easily be applied during massage. You will be invited to undress in privacy and will then lie on a couch in a calm, quiet room. The therapist may play gentle music to enhance the sensory experience and to promote relaxation. Aromatherapy massage can be enjoyed as a purely hedonistic pleasure as well as for the health benefits that it brings.

The therapist will use a combination of massage strokes to apply the oils to your body. These are primarily motions from Swedish massage designed to relax muscles and remove any tensions, stresses, and knots or adhesions. The therapist will adjust the strength of the strokes to suit your individual preference as everyone has a different level of touch which they prefer. Some people look for a light touch whilst others welcome a more thorough deep massage.

As the strokes of the massage relax and unwind the tensions in your body, the fragrances of the oils will act on your central nervous system and unfold their healing properties. Depending on the oils used you may feel energized, refreshed, uplifted, or deeply relaxed. You may also get more specific benefits, such as relief from sinus or bronchial problems if eucalyptus is used or relief from stomach pains with the fragrance of peppermint or rosemary which can balance the digestive system.

Because of its combination of fragrance and touch aromatherapy massage is arguably one of the most relaxing kinds of massage therapy available. It is valued both as a beauty treatment and as a gentle way of tackling many chronic conditions.

Schools that offer Massage Therapy Courses

Medical Careers Institute

The program focuses on the medical and rehabilitative effects of massage while conferring an understanding of the art and science of massage therapy. Sound business practices are taught, which prepares students for success in the workplace. The curriculum integrates clinical experience with hands-on work, and students get to know about the care given to patients in different stages of health.

Associate.
Massage Therapy - Associate.
Virginia, North Carolina.

Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy

Diploma, Associate.
Massage Therapy.
Connecticut.

American Institute School of Wellness and Beauty

Diploma.
Massage Therapy.
Florida.

National Holistic Institute

The skills needed for success in the rapidly growing, dynamic profession of massage therapy can be learned in our comprehensive 720 program. We offer a level of training second to none in our field.

Diploma.
Massage Therapist and Health Educator.
California.

Berdan Institute

The objectives of the massage therapy program –which consists of 750 hours of classroom, lab and clinical instruction- are to equip students with the necessary entry-level technical, business and professional skills for competency, confidence and achievement in the fields of massage therapy and body work.

Certificate.
Massage Therapy.
New Jersey.