A majority of people get a massage for the state of relaxation a therapeutic touch can induce. Massage therapists can incorporate essential oils to create a full on sensory experience to both relieve muscle tension and stress. Essential oils are the perfect complement to any massage session.
Essential oils have different properties. Some are stimulating, while others act as sedatives or analgesics. They are usually added to the massage oil and applied topically and absorbed through the olfactory senses. It is important for the massage therapist to know which essences have which properties in order to select the right one for their client. When a therapist incorporates the appropriate essential oil for their client the healing experience is deepened and becomes transformational.
The body has the ability to smell and differentiate at least 10,000 different scents. The scent travels to the part of the brain which controls mood, memory, and the ability to learn. When the olfactory senses are triggered with a pleasant smell, the brain releases “feel good” chemicals.
Lavender is perhaps the most versatile and widely used essential oil. Its healing properties run the gamut from anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antiseptic. It has cell regenerative properties as well. It calms muscle spasms, strain, and sprain. It is most well-known for its ability to induce relaxation.