An aromatherapy massage is a wonderful way to relax, but what is it exactly? Personal massage and aromatherapy are two treatments that are often used together. They are each used for a variety of reasons.
Each treatment has benefits that pair well with the other. Aroma therapy is often added to personal massage sessions as an additional service. Keep reading to learn more about personal massage, aromatherapy, and how they are beneficial together.
Benefits of Massage
Massage, put simply, is the rubbing or kneading of muscles and joints, and there are several different kinds of massage. Swedish, deep tissue, Shiatsu, and Thai are a few examples, although there are many more.
Massage is regularly used for relaxation, but it is also recommended for stress and anxiety relief, pain management, and improving circulation. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. The following is a list of some of the benefits of massage therapy:
- Decrease in aches and pains
- Decreased joint inflammation
- Decreased stiffness
- Relaxation
- Improved circulation
- Treats fibromyalgia
- Treats injuries
- Treats acute pain
What is Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils on the skin or inhalation to promote wellness. The scents are plant-based, and there are many different fragrances. Some common ones used in aromatherapy are lavender, bergamot, coriander, eucalyptus, and peppermint, although there are many more.
Aromatherapy is thought to work by stimulating smell receptors that then send messages to the brain, and the mood can then be positively affected. Mindfulness, relaxation, and positive emotions are associated with aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can be used in many ways, but one of the most common is aromatherapy massage.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
There are several benefits associated with aromatherapy. Some studies on aromatherapy have found that participants experienced a decrease in anxiety. Aromatherapy has been shown to have benefits in the following areas:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Pain reduction
Side-Effects of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is widely considered to be safe. There are a few risks associated with aromatherapy, although most of the risks come from misuse of the essential oils. The following are some risks associated with aromatherapy:
- Skin irritation
- Rash
- Redness or itchiness
- hives
Aromatherapy and Massage
Aromatherapy and personal massage each have benefits that complement each other. In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are often massaged into the skin. Candles and incense are often included, creating a perfect experience of relaxation. An aromatherapy massage is often used to treat pain, ease anxiety and stress, and create an ultimate atmosphere of relaxation.
In Summary
A personal massage is the rubbing or kneading of muscles and joints and is often used for relaxation or to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also be used to treat pain or other conditions. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils either on the skin or by inhalation. Aromatherapy is often used to reduce stress and anxiety and to create feelings of positivity.
Personal massage and aromatherapy work in tandem to make a relaxing, stress-reducing experience. An aromatherapy massage is recommended for those who suffer from anxiety, or joint or muscle pain, or for those simply looking for a pleasant way to relax.
The Wellness Center of Plymouth offers many different types of massage, including aromatherapy massage, to ease your mind and body. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
