AROMATHERAPY

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use, generally in dilution, of concentrated plant essences (essential oils) to relieve stress, enhance general health and wellbeing and support recovery and healing processes. Each essential oil has distinct therapeutic properties -stimulating, relaxing, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic etc - and these are the key to the efficacy of the therapy which draws also on the close link between the sense of smell and the brain and nervous system. Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy - i.e. treatment is tailored to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual condition of an individual at a given time. The most usual method of delivery is via massage so stimulating blood and lymph flow and relaxing tense muscles. Other ways in which aromatherapy can be utilised therapeutically include via bath mixes, skin creams, hair washes and inhalants.

What conditions can be treated by Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is often used a complementary therapy alongside other conventional and/or alternative treatments. It is also an excellent treatment for the general relief of stress and tension and to promote calm and relaxation.

What is an Aromatherapy treatment like?

The Initial Consultation will involve taking a detailed case history and during the Initial Consultation a Treatment Plan may be suggested and the likely timescale and cost indicated. The practitioner will ask you to undress to your underwear and lie on a treatment couch or, if you have trouble lying down, to sit in a treatment chair. Towels and blankets will be carefully placed over you to keep you warm and to preserve modesty. Support cushions will be used as necessary to ensure your comfort. Typically the massage will begin on the back of the body then you will be asked to turn over and the massage will continue to the front of the body. Sometimes the treatment may be limited to particular areas (such as the back and shoulders), depending on the therapeutic aim. Often the lights will be dimmed and gentle music played during the treatment in order to provide the most relaxing therapeutic environment.