Aromatherapy is an alternative medicine method that is believed to positively affect the health and mood of a person. Aromatherapy is developed from essential oils that are cold-pressed or steam distilled. The oils are extracted from fruits, flowers, roots and bark. These oils used in aromatherapy have been used for centuries in order to heal the mind, improve the body, soothe the psyche, and revive skin tone.
Methods of Massage with Aromatherapy
Using aromatherapy with a massage can relieve stress and relax the body and soul. Aromatherapy massage is an easy process and can be effectively completed by mostly anyone. It is a method of applying oils to distinct places in the body and working them into the body.
Aromatherapy massage uses the natural flow of the body which and is carried out towards the heart.
Effleurage, which incorporates gentle strokes that allow essential oils to enter the pores of the skin, is the most effective movement during the aromatherapy massage.  The method involves the use of the whole hand of the masseuse, not just the finger tips, varying between firm and gentle pressure and long and short strokes; this technique allows an even and effective spread of the aromatherapy oils over the body.
If aromatherapy massage is being used on children use gentle movements but still vary the length of strokes in order to establish a comforting experience. The benefits of effleurage in aromatherapy increases blood flow, provide muscle relaxation, soothe nerve endings, and relieve stress.
Petrissage, which is an imitation of kneading dough, should be done gently and slowly. This methodical movement in combination with the aromatherapy massage with essential oils is especially effective in areas of fat accumulation and the back. On target spots, it may be helpful to apply pressure with the thumb.
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Aromatherapy massage incorporating the petrissage method will release toxins trapped in the body, improve muscle relaxation, and increase blood circulation.
Head massage, after applying aromatherapy with essential oils is completed by massaging the scalp with the fingertips. It is beneficial to people who have pain from headaches and migraines, begin by working the aromatherapy with essential oils into the neck moving upward to the base of the scalp. Use your fingers to work in the aromatherapy oils all over for the most effective benefits.
If done properly, aromatherapy massage will comfort the mind, heal the body, and lower stress levels.
Aromatherapy Essential Oils at Home
Depending on your preference of aromatherapy essential oils, it is possible to combine with the base oil on your own. Types of aromatherapy essential oils that may be combined are eucalyptus, rosemary, neroli, lavender, peppermint or nutmeg. Adding these aromatherapy oils to water in a bath or a dispenser that will release them in the air can create lasting benefits.