Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy massage is a special massage technique that combines the benefits of Swedish massage, shiatsu and effleurage type massages, as well as individual techniques by the massage therapist.  The massage is often combined with music chosen for its calming and relaxing character.

A holistic practitioner will view the client as a whole entity, consisting of body, mind, and spirit and will begin with an intake session that will seek to determine what areas in the life or lifestyle might be causing particular problems for the client.  This session may require half an hour or more to complete the questioning.  The client then is allowed to lie on a massage table while the practitioner mixes one or more of the appropriate aromatherapy massage oils in a carrier oil base. The combination will be unique for the individual client and is selected with the current life condition and needs of the client. The holistic therapist will sometimes suggest other lifestyle changes which will benefit the client in addition to that of aromatherapy massage. 

During the aromatherapy massage, the essential oils are beneficial in two ways.  First, the molecules of the oil are inhaled and lodge in the scent receptors at the back of the throat, and in the mucous membranes of the nose.  The essential oils trigger positive responses in the brain and chemical changes occur in the blood stream as a result. These changes lead to increased relaxation, slowed breathing rate, changes in pain level due to reduced muscle tension and strain. There is also some evidence that a certain amount of the essential oils are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, although this is disputed.  It is known though, that certain essential oils are beneficial to the surface of the skin, reducing chance of infection and promoting cell health.

The actual massage typically takes 30 minutes to one hour and is followed by the preparation of additional essential oils blends to the client can continue to use them at home. A regular, frequent aromatherapy massage is considered to be rewarded by better health, reduced insomnia, appetite return and higher level of work performance.

Not all massage therapists are trained in the use of aromatherapy, and not all aromatherapists have learned the full range of massage therapy.  In the United States, massage therapists are licensed by the individual states and the license requirements vary greatly from state to state.  In other countries, regulations are different as well.