aromatherapy &
essential oils
Aromatherapy is the holistic application of
essential oils to improve physical and emotional well-being.
Essential oils are fragrant, volatile (quickly
evaporating) liquids that occur naturally in the 'glands' of plants. They are
extracted from flowers, leaves, seeds, roots, fruits and woods through
distillation and expression. Essential oils that are commonly used in
aromatherapy include rose, eucalyptus, ginger, bergamot and sandalwood.
Essential oils have been used in perfumery, food
flavouring and medicine for one thousand years. And long before they were first
distilled in Persia the Ancient Egyptians produced scented oils from
frankincense, cedarwood and other plants- put to use by priest and perfumer
alike.
Essential oils are highly concentrated and must
be diluted before being applied. For use in massage they are mixed with a
carrier such as almond or grapeseed oil. Massage is one of the safest ways for
the body to benefit from plant essences, as the skin absorbs oil rather slowly.
Each essential oil possesses distinct therapeutic
properties that can promote health and prevent disease. Supporting and
harmonising both body and mind, they have been found to increase vitality,
alleviate tension and fight infection.
Their ability to calm and uplift emotion and mood
is directly linked to the effect of their wonderful aromas, and the general link
between olfaction (smelling) and the brain.
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aromatherapy
massage |
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In the art of aromatherapy essential oils are
applied in a variety of ways including massage, ointments,
lotions, baths and inhalations. Their holistic application
is geared towards the needs of the individual. Aromatherapists
know that each individual requires a unique blend of essences.
Combining the benefits of essential oils with
those of therapeutic massage produces a deeply pleasurable yet
highly effective way of healing. Together they enhance the
circulation of blood and lymph, relax and tone tense, tired
muscles, improve nervous conductivity, and promote an overall
sense of well-being.
In our increasingly stressful, often impersonal
world, massage is being rediscovered as a thoroughly renewing,
non-invasive form of communication through touch
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professional treatment
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Your first visit to a professional
aromatherapist will normally involve a consultation. Here they
will ask you briefly about your health and vitality, medical
history and general emotional well-being. (All information will
naturally be held in strictest confidence.) Following this your
aromatherapist will select and blend the essential oils
appropriate for your individual needs and apply them in
combination with
Your aromatherapist may, with your consent,
wish to write your GP to inform him or her that you are receiving
aromatherapy treatment. This is done mainly in the interests of
establishing good relations with the medical profession.
Your aromatherapist may also be qualified to
practice other natural health disciplines. These may include
reflexology, acupressure, Touch for Health, nutrition and
counselling. |
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who
can benefit?
Aromatherapy can be of benefit to everyone-whether their health
is good or requires improvement. It is excellent for helping to relieve a wide
range of stress-related disorders. These include headache, insomnia,
indigestion, irritable bowel, inflammatory skin conditions and pre-menstrual
tension, to name but a few.
The movement of essential oils through the
body, together with therapeutic massage, encourages lymphatic
drainage, mobilises toxins, and can assist with obesity,
cellulitis and water retention. Many soothing, anti-inflammatory
essential oils help to relieve the aches and pains associated
with rheumatism and arthritis.
During aromatherapy massage the aroma of the
essences calms the mind and fortifies the nervous system. The
psychologically balancing effect of the treatment allows us to
use our vital energy positively. Relaxed and refreshed, we are
able to face life's challenges with a renewed sense of confidence
and ease.
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the register of qualified
aromatherapists |
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The Register of Qualified Aromatherapists (RQA)
is a professional association of aromatherapy practitioners who
have undergone training of the highest standards. Their training
will have involved a minimum of 200 hours of in-class study,
together with an extensive amount of home study. Each member
adheres to the Register's Codes of Ethics and of Practice, to
ensure a high degree of professional integrity and healthcare
standards. Each member is fully insured to practice.
The Register of Qualified Aromatherapists is a
member-organisation of Britain's lead body for aromatherapy- the
Aromatherapy Organisations Council (AOC). The AOC is actively
involved in representing the profession to the public, the
government and the medical profession. It is a member of the
British Complementary Medicine Association.
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