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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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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
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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MASSAGE THERAPISTS
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