Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils which are blended to your needs for therapeutic purposes.
Aromatic plants have been used for centuries in medicine, perfume, cooking & incense. The ancient Egyptians used Frankincense in cosmetics. In the Bible, there is reference to Moses making an anointing oil using Myrrh, Cinnamon and Olive oil as well as other ingredients. Over the centuries, aromatic knowledge spread from India to Greece, Rome & Arabia. During the 15th century, perfume was created in Italy which Catherine of Medici took to France with her.
In the 20th century, a French chemist Renee Maurice Gattefosse burnt his hand and immediately placed it into a vat of lavender to cool. His fascination and studies of essential oils began when he noticed how quickly his hand had healed. He is thought to have coined the term 'Aromatherapie'.
Marguerite Maury then studied Gattefosse's research and integrated it with massage which is how Aromatherapy is mainly used in the UK.
Benefits of Essential Oils:
The benefits vary greatly. Some essential oils are antiseptic such as Lemon & Tea Tree, whilst others are Anti-inflammatories such as Yarrow & Geranium. Chamomile is an anti-histamine whilst Black Pepper and Ginger are warming oils which are useful for muscular aches where is no inflammation. Other oils are uplifting (citrus oils & Melissa), whilst others have more sedative properties such as Valerian or Vetiver.
The fastest way for oils to be absorbed is through the olfactory system (through the nose). Oils are also easily absorbed through the skin into the blood stream.
What to expect from a treatment:
The treatment is holistic, massage based and is carried out following an in-depth consultation. The selected oils will be measured and blended up after the consultation and before the massage commences for each individual. Pre-packaged blends are never used.
An Aromatherapy treatment as I was taught is a very relaxing treatment with lots of fluid long movements. It is a more gentle and relaxing treatment than the Holistic massage which I offer.
Where required by my client, I can base the Aromatherapy massage on a Holistic Swedish massage and incorporate the Aromatherapy oils to penetrate the tissues even further. The treatment is massage based using essential oils which are chosen for you following the consultation. The treatment can include an Aromatherapy facial massage and blend using natural oils.
As with all massages, the essential oils will be blended with either one or a selection of carrier oils such as Sweet Almond oil, Sesame Oil, or other oils which I may have which also have fabulous properties. The choice of oils will be determined by the consultation to understand whether there are any skin conditions, allergies, muscular aches or age related considerations to factor into the treatment.
Treatments times include a consultation and aftercare advice.
Fees:
60 minutes: £40
90 minutes: £55
Take home blends are available. Gift vouchers are also available.
Please provide 48 hours notice in advance of a cancellation otherwise a fee remains payable.
 |