Your Complete Guide to Aromatherapy Massage l Treasure Spa

Your Complete Guide to Aromatherapy Massage

Welcome to the world of Aromatherapy Massage! If you’re ready to try it out, this guide covers the basics of aromatherapy and what to expect.

What is Aromatherapy Massage?

Aromatherapy Massage uses specific massage techniques to slowly apply a base oil mixed with an essential oil typically to the skin of the torso and limbs. As well as relaxing the muscles by massage, each base oil has properties with benefits for particular health conditions and skin types. Qualities of a chosen essential oil alter the physical sensations and overall experience. Different oils applied in the same way by the massage therapist can vastly change the experience for the same client. Depending on the chosen mix of base oil & essential oil it can be deeply soothing… Or by changing the ingredient mix alone it can become intensely energizing.

The calm pace with which the massage therapist applies this oil-mix brings about a slowing in the breathing of the client and with deeper breaths the scent molecules of the essential oil have progressively more effect.

As with exposure to any constant smell, initially, the scent is clear and stands out but after a while the receptors in the nose are overloaded and the smell intensity disappears towards the background. Its influence is still there. Afterward, however, the client may interpret this more as mood than scent. This is why people talk in terms of using scented candles and other fragrances to create ‘ambiance’ in rooms.

How Does Aromatherapy Massage Work?

Aromatherapy Massage is rooted in the understanding of how we typically react to particular oils and scents. Aromatherapy Massage combines the soothing power of ‘the human touch’ from massage with the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. A proportion of the massage oils are absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream. When inhaling any fragrance its molecules enter the olfactory bulb directly connected to the limbic system in your brain and autonomically influences your nervous system. This triggers memories and associated emotions.

Remember a smell that each time you come across it, sends you back to childhood and elevates your mood in some way? This is the same principle.

‘How you feel’ at a particular time changes your scent preferences therefore if there is the option; smell the ‘essential oil testers’ just before you start an Aromatherapy Massage. Rub a drop on the back of your hand to check its texture and choose your essential oil on the day.

Base Oils For Aromatherapy Massage

Base oils make-up approximately 98-99% of the oil in an Aromatherapy Massage. Their purpose is to make the performance of the massage technique as comfortable as possible while benefiting the skin of the client in absorption. Some base oils (carrier oils) used in Aromatherapy Massage include Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Sesame Oil, Sunflower Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Jojoba Oil, & Sweet Almond Oil.

Base oils are usually chosen to be neutral in odor to allow the scent of essential oil to be highlighted. However, each carrier oil has a perceptible scent and modifies the essential oil mixed into them. Therefore certain blends of oils will smell better with particular essential oils than others. Coconut Oil and Sweet Almond Oil tend to have a nice scent on their own and for some are enjoyed pure in Aromatherapy Massage without the addition of essential oil.

Essential Oils For Aromatherapy Massage

At the heart of aromatherapy practice are essential oils – these ingredients (usually a specific part of a plant) are concentrated to create volatile compounds in the form of oil. Whether flowers, fruits, leaves, seeds, barks, or roots, specific techniques are required to convert each ingredient into a useful oil. Organic in nature the compounds belong to various chemical classes including alcohols, ethers, terpenes, and more. Aroma essential oils are usually expensive in comparison to the raw ingredients they are made from as processing only keeps a fraction upon conversion. For example, Jasmine Absolute needs millions of Jasmine flowers to produce a kilogramme of oil.

Plants contain many organic chemical compounds and the proportions and interactions of these determine the oil properties and scent. Plant essential oils are made in batches; each batch tends to differ because the chemical make-up depends on the weather conditions the plant had during growth, maturity at point of harvesting and subsequent processing. This is one of the reasons why natural ingredients (e.g. tea leaves or grapes for wine) are often blended to maintain quality. The proportions create a balanced mix batch-to-batch, year-to-year; a reliable average for an ingredient being better for seller and buyer than uncontrollable highs & lows.

Concentrated essential oils are not safe to use on the skin without significant dilution with a base oil and need care in handling. If not dilute enough, skin reactions may include small bumps, itching and redness around the affected area in which case you should stop contact immediately and wash in water.

Below are basic descriptions of 5 well-known essential oils. These are diluted with a base or carrier oil before using in massage.

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender Oil is celebrated for its relaxing properties, making it a go-to choice for combating stress and promoting a peaceful night’s sleep. Its gentle herbal-floral scent is soothing, and evokes a tranquil mood.

2. Chamomile Oil

One of the most ancient and widely used medicinal herbs known, forms of Chamomile are often found in cosmetic products today. As well as gentleness on the skin, its properties are also highly valued for calming effects on the mind.

3. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus Oil helps you breathe more easily. Its strong, minty-medicinal aroma is excellent for opening airways and offering relief from colds and congestion.

4. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint Oil aroma is an energizer. Everyday exposure to mint products may make it easy to underestimate its value. Known for its ability to alleviate headaches and boost energy levels, the crisp, cool scent wakes-up the senses. Select Peppermint Oil if you want a blast of freshness.

5. Jasmine Oil (Absolute)

Jasmine Oil is extracted from the fragrant jasmine flower. Expensive and highly prized in Thailand it has a sweet, romantic aroma with the ability to uplift moods, and increase energy, it may also help reduce stress and anger. Note, however, that for some people Jasmine’s aroma may be ‘headachey’ and overpowering if the scent is too strong or not used-to-it.

Five Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

1. Reduce Stress

Aromatherapy Massage can be a stress-buster. Scents from the oils work to calm your nerves if feeling anxious or have a lot on your mind.

2. Better Sleep

Aroma Massage helps you sleep better. Lavender Oil can help you take your mind off things and clear the way for a night of deeper sleep.

3. Improve Blood Flow

Aroma Massage helps improve circulation. Massage gives your body a helpful nudge promoting faster removal of toxins and enhancing overall energy levels.

4. Boost Your Immune System

Oils such as eucalyptus and tea trees support the body’s natural defenses, especially during times when you need an extra boost.

5. Pain Relief

For minor aches and pains, Aromatherapy Massage offers a gentle solution. Ginger Oil can have a pain-reducing effect similar to a soothing balm, easing discomfort and helping you recover.

Types of Massage Paired with Aromatherapy

1. Aromatherapy Thai Massage

Aromatherapy Thai Massage focuses on stretching and effleurage strokes to apply the base oil and essential oil mix. Popular relaxation option in Thailand and more gentle than the similarly named Thai Massage (which is more like passive yoga and the client fully clothed).

2. Aromatherapy Deep Tissue Massage

Aromatherapy Deep Tissue Massage is great for tight muscles, and aiding recovery from high-intensity sporting activity. It is similar to Aromatherapy Thai Massage but the technique requires the therapist to push deeper into muscles and fascia. Expect some level of discomfort during this treatment. Give your body a period of rest and recovery for at least 24 hours.

3. Aromatherapy Reflexology

Reflexology focuses on the points of the feet (as well as hands, and ears) to improve the function of other parts of the body. Selected essential oil adds a soothing or refreshing effect to this treatment.

4. Aromatherapy Hot Stone Massage

Instead of hands, warm rounded stones are used as tools to apply therapeutic strokes to the body. The oil helps the smooth stones glide easily and heat enlivens the scent of the essential oils. Combining this flow-feeling with the thermal element of placed stones on the back, a hot stone massage makes for an exceptional aromatherapy experience.

3 Pointers for Aromatherapy Massage

1. Getting Ready for Your Massage

Prepare in advance: wear clothes that are comfy and easy to change out of. Make sure you’re not too hungry or too full, and drink some water to stay hydrated. These small steps can help you feel more comfortable and ready to get the most from your massage.

2. Understanding Your Needs

Think about what you want to get from an ‘Aromatherapy Massage’. Are you looking for: a bit of a rest, a pick-me-up, or something to help reduce tension in the shoulders? Having a goal for the visit helps when asking questions to find the right type of treatment to suit your needs and an ideal length of time for the session.

3. What to Do After Your Massage

Prepare to feel deeply relaxed and maybe even a bit drowsy afterward. Drink plenty of water, take it easy for the rest of the day, and try to keep and enjoy the lingering sense of relaxation. If having trouble sleeping it may be a good idea to book your Aromatherapy Massage last thing in the evening, avoid any screen time afterward, and go straight to bed.

Keep a note of the essential oil chosen on the visit and how you felt after; makes it easier for selection next time.

Considerations Before Choosing Aromatherapy Massage

Be Aware of Sensitivities

If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, inform the receptionist at consultation or before starting treatment. Diluted essential oils have potent chemical ingredients and cause skin reactions in some people.

Skin Recovery Takes Time

Better to avoid Aromatherapy Massage on areas of skin recovering from a recent condition e.g. rash, sunburn, shaving, waxing, etc. Even though it may no longer be visible, previously injured skin will absorb more of the essential oil and the rubbing of the massage may cause further irritation and inflammation.

Be Gentle On Your Nose

The scent of essential oil (as with any fragrance) may give you a headache or make you feel queasy sometimes. So it’s best to not pick the strong scent when sampling massage oil ‘testers’ before a treatment. Pick a mild one; if too bold, rather than enjoy the aroma you may end up having to ‘bear it’ for the duration of the massage.

Ask Questions

Whenever choosing a service, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the massage or products used. During any treatment let the therapist know straight away about your comfort levels or any pain you’re experiencing. If you’re pregnant or have certain health conditions and take medications, talk to your doctor before selecting an Aromatherapy Massage. A medical professional can help you decide if it’s a good choice for you.

Conclusion

Aromatherapy Massage combines the benefits of massage with the natural powers of essential oils. It’s easy to get started, and each session is a step towards learning more about the aromas you like & making you feel good.

If you’re considering Aromatherapy Massage, naturally, we think Treasure Spa Bangkok is a great place to try it. We offer a relaxing environment where you can unwind & rest. Visit Treasure Spa website to find out more about our menu of services including Aromatic Oil Massage & check back from time to time for our latest promotions.