AROMATHERAPY.
TIPS FOR AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
When signing up for an aromatherapy massage, consider the following tips to make the most of this or any type of massage session:
Choose an essential oil based on your needs. For example, you might choose a citrusy scent for boosting your mood, lavender for relaxation, or eucalyptus for pain management.
Decide whether you want the oil diffused or applied directly to your skin during your massage. If you have any known sensitivities to a particular oil, it’s best to steer clear and choose something else.
Don’t go to your massage on a full stomach -this could cause stomach upset during and after your session.
Do drink water before and immediately after your massage and consider having a snack.
Take a warm shower after your massage. This helps remove any oils left on your skin.
Your massage therapist is also your first source for questions about an aromatherapy massage experience. They should be able to recommend specific essential oils, and discuss what product and techniques they would use based on your needs.
If the therapist doesn’t seem confident about aromatherapy massage, they may not have much experience including it in their sessions.
Some essential oils can irritate asthma and other breathing problems. When applied to the skin, essential oils made from citrus fruits can make the skin more vulnerable to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure after grapefruit, orange, or other citrus oil is used on your skin.
Also, don’t be afraid to speak up during your massage. If something doesn’t feel right, let the therapist know. You can also ask them to apply more oils and use more or less pressure at any point.
Remember that this is a quiet space, so your therapist won’t want to interrupt your experience with questions — it’s up to you to speak up.
You might reap some of the benefits of aromatherapy outside of massage sessions by diffusing essential oils in your own home.
The takeaway
Aromatherapy massages, when done by professional massage therapists, might enhance your experience, ultimately improving your self-care routine.
While scientific research is still being done to assess the health benefits of aromatherapy, there’s no doubt that it helps some people to feel better, often by temporarily decreasing sensations of pain or mood symptoms.
When coupled with the principles of massage therapy, aromatherapy might help you feel even better.