Aromatherapy massage is a massage therapy which involves the use of high concentration plant oils (essential oils) in combination with lotions or massage oils. Aromatherapy massage has the effect of a natural sleep aid on the body.
Nostrils are connected to a part of the brain called the limbic system, which controls and influences the human nervous system. It controls the emotions and hormones in the body. When people inhale essential oils, the molecules transmit a message to the limbic system, which affects the breathing, digestion, memory, stress level, heart rate and immune system of the body.
Essential oils also get absorbed through the skin and are believed to have different healing properties. Some essential oils have a calming effect, while some have an energizing effect. Here is a small list of essential oils with their properties:
- Lavender, Geranium, Chamomile – Calming effect
- Clary Sage, Neroli, Rose, Ylang Ylang – Uplifting effect
- Rosemary – Energizing and cleansing effect
- Tea Tree, Pine, Eucalyptus – Decongesting effect
How Aromatherapy Massage Works As a Natural Sleep Aid
Aromatherapy is particularly ideal for use in improving stress and emotional conditions. The following are a few conditions on which aromatherapy works as a natural sleep aid:
- Stress related conditions (insomnia)
- Digestion problems
- Back pains
- PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
The following are a few examples of the researches carried out on aromatherapy overtime:
- Sixteen new mothers (first time mothers) received aromatherapy massages for 2 days after delivery, while 20 mothers went through normal post-partum care. The group of mothers that received aromatherapy showed significant decrease in the rate of anxiety attacks and post-partum blues.
- Cancer patients in the palliative care setting show increased signs of improvement by using aromatherapy.
- Aromatherapy massages using aromatherapy oils show more significant signs of improvement in symptoms of sleep disorders and the overall well being of people having lymphedema.
What Is Expected From an Aromatherapy Massage Session
Certain essential oils are selected for use, (based on the individuals needs) and are mixed with massage lotions or oils. The aroma of the subtle essential oils is diffused all around the individual during the massage session. The inhaling of these essential oils have a very relaxing and healing effect on the nerves and the entire body, which works a great natural sleep aid as well.
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