Massage therapy and scented oils. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? There is a vast array of essential oils that can be used with massage therapy to create the ultimate healing experience. The oils most commonly used with massage therapy are lavender, ylang ylang, tea tree, and eucalyptus. Almond oil and jojoba oil are also used, but are used more as moisturizers to the skin rather than as “aromatherapy”. Essential oils have been proven to have healing properties and when combined with massage they can relax or stimulate your body. “Mixing” massage and the properties of the oils can provide detoxification, improved circulation and bring about a state of relaxation that will calm your mind, senses and body.
Lavender is used for relieving pain, sleeplessness, stress and, most interestingly, used more than any other oil in connection with a therapeutic massage. It calms the mind and brings about a deeper state of relaxation. Ylang Ylang is also“mainstay” oil used in connection with relaxation. It also provides stimulation to the circulation, as well as releases endorphins which allows our body to let go of physical pain. It has a calming effect on the nervous system further helping with relaxation. Another interesting oil is Tea Tree. It helps promote healing of damaged skin and provides stimulation in connection with our breathing and can be especially helpful to people with breathing issues. Eucalyptus oil is used for all types of muscle issues, including sprains and muscle spasms. Nothing like getting rid of a very tight calf muscle and having relief! This is a wonderful oil for someone who participates in sports or has just moved into a new home! It has the amazing ability to prevent and heal scar tissue, as well as stimulate the sinuses and senses and aid with skin issues.
Massage therapy with essential oils has healing effects and the oils can enhance the sensory experience! Be sure to ask me about what oils would be best for you and how they can help.
At Val Healing, we love to work with our clients and bring them relaxation and healing!
Valentina Boonstra
massage therapist
Pilates Instructor
