Aromatherapy

"Something smells good!" but did you know that the good smell can also make you feel great too? Aromatherapy involves the inhalation of essential oils. When these naturally occurring oils are inhaled, the scent enters your bloodstream through the nasal tissues. The chemicals are carried through the blood to your brain where they stimulate neurotransmitters. This can result in physical and psychological changes.

Each essential oil has specific properties and resultant effects on the body. Essential oils can help lower stress, improve mood, boost energy, and even decrease pain. Here are some popular essential oils and their effects:

Lemon- Decrease fatigue
Cinnamon- Decrease anxiety or stress
Lavender- Decrease pain
Peppermint- Boost energy
Chamomile- Decrease stress
Bergamot- Decrease pain

Essential oils can be used during massage therapy sessions to enhance the benefits of the massage. Besides receiving the benefit of inhaling the scent, the essential oils are also absorbed through the skin during the massage. It should be noted that essential oils are very strong and should be diluted before being applied to the skin. The massage therapist will add the essential oil to a carrier oil such as jojoba oil and then apply it to the skin. You will receive the benefits of massage plus the physical and psychological effects of the specific essential oil.

Because the essential oils have physical effects on the body, please discuss use of essentials oils with a professional who is aware of the specific uses and precautions before using.