Aromatherapy

What is it and how does it work?
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils to help maintain health and vitality.
The oils are extracted from natural sources ~plants, flowers, herbs, resins, twigs, and leaves. At Essential Holistic Health only 100% pure essential oils are used.
The oils can be used in a variety of ways. Within the clinic they are mixed with a carrier oil (for example almond oil), and used as a massage blend. Other uses include aromatic baths, vaporisers, inhalations, creams, lotions and compresses. These are excellent ways you can use them yourself at home ~ guidelines for use will be given at the clinic.
In an aromatherapy massage it is the oils which do much of the work. The treatment style is gentle but deep, rhythmic and slow, allowing the oils to be absorbed by the outer layers of the skin. From here they are drawn into the body.
Oils are also absorbed through the nose via the mucous membranes. From the lungs they will again be taken up by the blood stream and distributed through the body.
A particularly pleasant aspect of treatment is the effect it has on the part of the brain which connects memory to aromas. This area makes associations between pleasant smells and past pleasant experiences.
Smelling the oils slows down the breathing and heart rate. Muscles begin to relax and the mind, too, begins to calm down and relax.
Essential oils are safe to use with few side effects, when used correctly, and their high concentration means only small quantities are necessary.

What are the KEY EFFECTS of aromatherapy?
Relief of aches and pains;
Relaxation ~ mentally and physically;
Stress reduction ~ emotionally, mentally and physically;
Improves blood flow ~ increases oxygen and nutrients available to the cells, organs and muscles;
Improves the removal of toxins and waste products in the tissues, mainly lactic acid;
Calms the nervous system;
Regulation of the sebaceous glands in the skin;
Improves skin tone and texture;
Enhances mood and ability to cope with a busy, hectic lifestyle.

How can that help me, what are the benefits?
Reduction in stress levels. Since it is generally recognised that more than 80% of common ailments are stress-related to some degree, it makes sense that reducing stress will have a major impact on your state of health and wellbeing.
Aids relaxation of mind and body.
Improvement in depth and the quality of sleep. When your body is relaxed and stress is reduced, you have better sleep patterns, making your body much more efficient in healing itself.
Reduction/elimination of pain. Coping with physical pain every day is hard work and can be very tiring. By increasing the levels of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, pain can be effectively blocked and reduced. Some of the oils also contain compounds which reduce pain locally.
Encourage you to make lifestyle changes to further enhance your wellbeing.

What type of conditions/complaints can be eased with this therapy?
Aches and pains;
Anxiety/panic attacks;
Arthritis/swollen joints;
Back ache; - High/low blood pressure (consent of GP, verbal or written);
Cellulitis/fluid retention;
Depression;
Eczema;
Exhaustion/fatigue/poor energy levels;
IBS/digestive disorders;
Insomnia;
Headaches/migraines;
Menstrual cycle issues ~ PMT, periods ~ heavy, painful, irregular;
Menopause;
Muscular aches and pains;
Respiratory problems;
Sinusitis;
Stress. This is not an exhaustive list, but these are among the most commonly presenting conditions. Please go to contact page if you require further information or you have any questions or concerns.

What will happen during the treatment?
During the session a full consultation of your medical history, lifestyle and diet will be taken. If you are taking medication prescribed by your GP, you might find it useful to make a list. You might also wish to speak with your GP/consultant before treatment as, for some conditions, special care needs to be taken.
Next you may be asked which types of aromas are your preferences. Do you like, for example, fresh herby smells, rich exotic floral aromas, or deep earthy tones? Generally two or three essential oils will be blended together, which will suit both your physical ailments and emotional/mental needs.
Although you will need to undress to your underwear, soft luxurious towels will be used to cover you, and only the area being worked on is exposed.
Following your massage you may be given homecare advice so that you can get the most from your treatment.

How much does it cost

Back, neck, shoulders, 30mins @ £22
Full body, 60mins, @ £35
Full body, including face, 90mins, @ £48

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