Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy aims to treat the whole person by helping to restore the harmony of mind, body and spirit.
It works with the pure properties of plants, using their essential oils in a natural, complementary therapy which can help improve both physical and emotional well being.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
- The relief of stress and tension
- A feeling of deep relaxation
- Stimulated immune system
- A calm and soothed mind
- Improved blood and lymph circulation
- Increase energy levels
- A general sense of well being
Therapists regularly use around 50 oils to help a variety of conditions. Each oil has different therapeutic properties, so from within the range, aromatherapists can select oils that can benefit various conditions throughout your body.
Origins of Aromatherapy - a brief history
The ancient Egytians, Romans and Greeks were among the first to appreciate the benefits of essential oils. The use of aromatic oils reached England's shores around the 13th century.
Can everyone enjoy Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is suitable for most adults but there are certain conditions where you should avoid it. To ensure the continued well being of clients, all treatments begin with a consultation, which enables your therapist to make sure that aromatherapy is right for you. In some instances your doctor's permission may be required before treatments can commence. An individual confidential record card will be kept with any relevant notes for future treatments.
What happens during an aromatherapy treatment
Typically, aromatherapy massage lasts for approximately an hour. During the treatment, towels will be used to ensure your modesty.
Aromatherapy oils are blended with a vegetable oil, known as a carrier oil, before being applied to the skin by a skilled aromatherapist, creating a blend tailored specially for you.
There are two main ways in which you can benefit from essential oils: either by them being absorbed by your skin, or through your breathing. The oils can have a physical effect by causing chemical changes in your body's systems, and a psychological effect when you inhale the fragrance. As the sense of smell has a direct access route to the brain, this can have an immediate effect on your body.
After your treatment
To gain maximum benefit from the essential oils, and to give them time to be absorbed into your skin, don't bath or shower for 8 hours, and avoid bath oils and salts for 24 hours.
Drink plenty of water - this helps flush away toxins. Try to avoid alcohol and tobacco for at least 24 hours. If you have any queries, don't hesitate to ask your therapist for advice.
Aromatherapy is carried out by Lisa Smith
www.serenitycomplementarytherapies.co.uk


