There's a knot behind your neck, and your shoulders ache. The solution is definitely a good old massage. But sometimes, the stress is more than just physical. What kind of massage do you need to soothe the mind? The answer is aromatherapy.
The use of calming and relaxing scents has existed for quite a while, and different scents have been associated with particular activities, such as incense for prayer, to signify a lifting of spirits.
This proves that certain organic substances, such as essential oils, can influence your state of mind and relieve pent-up emotion and stress.
In this article, we'll be looking at five essential oils that can be used for a home massage, as well as the benefits of aromatherapy.
Essential Oils For A Home Massage
Makeshift ingredients and occasional interruptions usually characterise a home massage. To get the most out of this quality self-care treatment, you want to get rid of distractions that can interrupt your mental exercise.
Essential oils can be grouped into several classes, and these classes reflect their uses. Generally, any essential oil may be used for aromatherapy, but these particular oils have a more calming effect than the others.
Chamomile
Native to southern Europe, Western Europe, and some parts of Asia, Chamomile earned its nickname "Blue Chamomile" due to its vivid blue colour. In Ancient Greece and Egypt, oil was used to relieve tension. Its powerful antioxidant properties informed its use as a topical massage oil. It has been used to promote vitality and to ease the discomfort associated with PMS and stress-related symptoms.
To use this oil, dab a little on the skin and massage with the heel of your palm. Dilution is not necessary unless for extremely sensitive skin.
Lavender
One of the most popular essential oils- lavender is known for its sweet, floral scent. This essential oil is a match for an energising massage, promoting blood flow, stamina, and energy release. As it improves blood circulation, it also helps to numb pain, providing temporary pain relief. When coupled with the touch stimuli of a massage, the pain-relieving abilities of lavender are brought to full potency.
Frankincense
This essential oil is highly sought after. It has a complexly soothing aroma, capable of enveloping users and transporting them into a calm and happy place. Possessing anti-depressant properties, it can be used as an immune system boost. Plus, it is also a great remedy for troubled minds and anxious hearts.
It has been used in the past to relieve the symptoms of cough and to aid breathing. It is a great therapy for people who have frequent panic attacks. Besides this, it improves concentration and memory, clearing the clutter in the mind and restoring peace and order.
Coriander
This essential oil provides an aroma that is an escape from the business and harshness of everyday life. Its scent may be described as warm and homey. Using this oil in a massage provides a deep sense of relaxation of the body and the mind. The scent reminds one of the moments when they were happiest and when their hearts were fullest.
Truly, the scent aids circulation and digestion, helping your blood flow smoothly and calmly. It also relieves mental stress and suppresses cramps. This is useful in cough suppression and in alleviating pain associated with periods and ovulation.
Geranium
This oil has physical and mental implications on its users. It has special rejuvenating effects on the skin, helping your skin look healthier, firmer, and brighter. Because of this application, it is used to combat menopausal symptoms such as loss of collagen. It acts as an astringent, shrinking large pores that hinders a perfect skin structure. The result is smoother, younger-looking skin.
The effects are not lost on the mind. Geranium improves circulation, which leads to improved memory and brain function. This ingredient is key during a massage for the elderly or for the recovering. A massage with Geranium will have you feeling brand new.
Other essential oils that have found use in various homes as massage oils and diffusing oils include eucalyptus, bergamot, peppermint, and rosemary oils.
How to Use Essential Oils in Massage
Essential oils come in different strengths. To use an essential oil during a massage, add a few drops of the oil to your massage oil. Doing this would disperse the oil increasing your skin's absorption.
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