Introduction
Many people rely on aromatherapy for medicinal and spiritual applications. This practice dates back centuries, but it was not until the 1900s when French chemist Rene Maurice Gattefossé coined the term when he discovered the healing properties of lavender oil. Eventually, aroma massage became popular, combining the benefits of scent and touch.
If you are curious about how aromatherapy can do wonders for your well-being, you have come to the right place! Keep reading as Breeze Oriental Spa & Massage discusses how it can revitalize your mind and body.
Key Benefits of Aromatherapy for Your Health
Aromatherapy uses concentrated natural extracts from various plants—think mint, tea tree, and lavender, among others. Filling up a bottle of essential oil requires more than just a few flowers since it takes approximately 60 rose bulbs to produce a drop of rose essential oil. Considering how potent it is, even a little amount can already go a long way.
During aroma spa, massage therapists may apply essential oils on your skin, diffuse them in the air, and use other means to spread their scent. Here are the different ways it can benefit you:
For Mental Health
Let us face it—the stress from the everyday hustle and bustle can get the best of your mental health. Juggling work and personal life can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. That is where aroma massage steps in, effectively soothing your mind and restoring balance.
Boosts Mood
Have you ever wondered why whenever you smell a scent, it reminds you of something or affects your emotions? That is because the aroma travels through your olfactory bulb, which is connected to the hippocampus and amygdala. These regions of the brain store memories and trigger emotions, explaining why aroma oils can quickly lift your mood. So, it is no surprise that many people use them as a pick-me-up to help them feel better.
Relieves Stress
Sometimes, a soothing massage is all it takes to melt the stress away. Now, picture this: your therapist uses calming oils like chamomile and lavender to double the effect. When combined with these aromatic oils, the healing touch can refresh your mind. In turn, it can help you sleep better.
Decreases Anxiety Levels
Aromatherapy is a perfect complement to massage; it can relax your senses, easing your tension and anxiety. They help release more endorphins or “feel-good chemicals,” which provide natural pain relief and help reduce stress. Essential oils extracted from rose, lavender, bergamot, and ylang-ylang are known to be the best inducers of this effect.
On top of that, aromatherapy can alleviate depressive symptoms, according to a study from the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. However, it is crucial to note that you should not depend on this practice alone if you have depression. Instead, use it to complement therapy and other treatment methods.
For Physical Health
Aroma massage does more than just heal the mind. It also aids in relieving pain, tension, and other symptoms in your body. Here is how:
Helps Decongest Lungs
Taking a whiff of certain aroma oils, such as tea tree oil and peppermint, can help clear your airways, making it easier for you to breathe. They can also loosen mucus and phlegm, so they can be expelled more quickly from the lungs. Furthermore, other oils have antimicrobial properties to help fight respiratory infections that can congest the lungs.
Reduces Muscle and Joint Pain
When over-the-counter pain relievers or foam rollers don’t work for your achy joints or tense muscles, it may be time to try aromatherapy! For instance, if you experience pain and swelling, consider mixing peppermint, lavender, and rosemary oil. This blend can provide a cooling effect on the muscles while easing inflammation.
However, if you are injured or have a medical condition that causes these symptoms, it is best to seek professional attention before anything else.
Relieves Headache
Aromatherapy can provide much-needed relief if you are dealing with a recurring headache or persistent migraine. A study from European Neurology reveals that inhaling the scent of lavender oil for around 15 minutes can mitigate the severity of migraine symptoms. When paired with a massage, it can further alleviate headache-causing tension in your back and neck muscles.
Potential Risks of Aromatherapy
While aromatherapy is generally safe, it pays to be cautious when using essential oils. Some can trigger allergies when you inhale them, especially if you are sensitive to strong scents. Others can also cause irritation when applied directly to the skin.
To prevent these symptoms, dilute the essential oil in massage oil before use. If you have concerns, consult your doctor before trying aromatherapy foot spa.
While aromatherapy offers several benefits, it is crucial to understand that it should not replace your treatment plans for depression, chronic headaches, and other mental and physical ailments. It works better as a complementary therapy alongside your existing healthcare regimen. Avoid taking medications and other prescribed therapies without speaking to your doctor.
Visit Your Trusted Aromatherapists Today!
Looking for the ultimate aroma massage experience? Your search ends with Breeze Oriental Spa & Massage. Our massage therapists are ready to nurture and revitalize your mind, body, and spirit. We can create custom blends based on your needs and preferences so that you can get the most out of the benefits.
On top of that, our spa offers a serene haven where you can relax and reconnect with yourself. We are conveniently located in Makati and Bonifacio Global City and are open until late hours to accommodate your busy schedule. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to schedule your visit!
Conclusion
Aromatherapy offers a natural and holistic approach to improving physical and mental well-being. It uplifts your mood, reduces stress and anxiety, and relieves various ailments. However, it is essential to note that aromatherapy should only complement, rather than replace, any medical treatments from healthcare professionals.
Look no further than Breeze Oriental Spa & Massage for an exceptional aromatherapy experience. Feel free to send us a message for inquiries.
