Aromatherapy for Mental Health
Aromatherapy massage is typically gentler than the likes of Swedish Massage. This doesn’t mean it’s tickly or ineffective, it just means it’s a deeply relaxing and restorative treatment.
When tackling issues such as anxiety and depression, aromatherapy has many positive attributes. I see it as a gentle, nurturing massage that contrasts with the harshness of the stressful world we live in. It brings you into a bubble of calm and peace allowing you to relax and process those racing thoughts.
The power of touch is vastly underestimated and is essential for wellbeing. I always remember many years ago these wee babies in the Romanian orphanages strapped into their cots with a vacant look in their eyes. They’d been denied any form of loving care – so cruel.
At times of stress our body produces a hormone called cortisol. This hormone can create all kinds of issues if prolonged periods of stress are endured, including sleep problems, weight gain and impaired immune system plus many more.
Massage can help reduce stress, therefore help to keep the cortisol levels steady. It is also thought to increase serotonin levels which is the hormone that positively impacts our mood.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to complement the unique needs of each client. Oils such as lavender and bergamot can further enhance both relaxation and mental health making it the perfect treatment to help through stressful times.