We will start this article defining aromatherapy, being one of the best known branches of complementary medicine. Aromatherapy could be defined as the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes and it has become popular as an effective natural method to relieve stress.
There are two main ways in which essential oils penetrate the organism: through smell (sense very linked to the instinct and the subconscious mind) and through contact with the skin.
When inhaled by the nose (through smell), it is considered that the essences act on the nervous system, influence in the state of mind, in psychic functions such as memory and learning and in psychosomatic diseases, in which there is a close relationship between the mental state and the health of the organs. It has been scientifically proven that the olfactory message travels from the nose to the area of the brain linked to the state of mind, to sexuality, aggression, feeding and reproduction.
On the other hand, the essential oils penetrate our body perfectly through the skin when receiving a massage (previously diluted in base oil). The massage with essential oils seeks, above all, to penetrate in the best possible way the personalized formula that is made for each client according to their needs. Therefore, soft and deep movements are very important. Hot skin absorbs better the oils used during a massage, so that covering each area of massaged skin favors its action.
The healing power of plants are really well known historically. Primarily used as creams, in the essential oils they are extracted from the plants making the use of its properties more practical and accesible to almost everybody. Actually, medicine would not have existed without the natural plant products.
The beneficial effects in the body when receiving an aromatherapy massage range from contributing to reduce cellulite as well as accelerating the production of cells in the body when doing invigorating beauty treatments and rejuvenation. In addition, most of the essential oils are antiseptic, others therapeutic, others anti-inflammatory or analgesic and some, finally, act beneficially on the hormonal system. Certain essential oils can produce an increase in circulation and oxygenation of the blood, which contributes to cell regeneration.
However, it is important to clarify that in pregnancy, any concentrated product (including essential oils), should be out of contact with women in the first months of pregnancy. After the fourth month, there are many essential oils that can be applied in aromatherapy treatments, some of which are particularly effective and relaxing. We have to think that we are treating the baby when we treat his mother.
Among the safest oils for pregnant or lactating women for being used: Geranium; Tangerine, Neroli-Azahar, Hindu Sandalwood, Ylan-ylang, Lavender, Rosa damascena, Tea tree, Roman chamomile and blue.
Anyway, we always recommend consulting with an expert in particular cases of diseases or specific pathologies.
The aromatherapists have observed that we tend to feel instinctively attracted by the oil or the mixture of oils that best responds to our physical and emotional needs at a given moment … And you, have you ever had the opportunity to let yourself be carried away by your smell and choose the right essence for you? Do you know what your body needs? Or can you recognize those aromas that bring you back to certain scenarios or activating memories?
“We invite you to try this joyful experience by yourself in our facilities of HOTEL BENABOLA when receiving an aromatherapy massage. A professional experienced in this area will guide you with the essences that best resonates with you … you can book directly in the following link and benefit from the special offer ”
References:
– Sanz Bascuñana, Enrique. “Aromatherapy guide for massage”, an integrating vision.
– Revista Cuerpo y Mente , pag 15-20.