Aromatherapy has an intimate relationship with massage therapy. While it is possible to have aromatherapy independent of massage therapy, it seems hardly likely that you can have a massage without the myriad benefits of aromatherapy as well! it fact these two therapies go so will together that we sometimes tend to think they are one and the same but it fact, they are not.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy refers wholly to the therapeutic benefits which can be derived from aromas. In fact according to Wikipedia:
Aromatherapy is based on the usage of aromatic materials, including essential oils, and other aroma compounds, with claims for improving psychological or physical well-being.[1] It is offered as a complementary therapy or as a form of alternative medicine, the first meaning alongside standard treatments,[2] the second instead of conventional, evidence-based treatments.[3]
The first question that jumps to mind is – how do we know that the act of inhaling aromas or scents actually have any effect on our psychological or physical well-being? Well, if you are really curious you can read a variety of scientific studies including one written by Rachel Hertz of the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University. The excerpt states the following:
“..it was found that credible evidence that odors can affect mood, physiology and behavior exists.”
Herz, Rachel. (2009). Aromatherapy Facts and Fictions: A Scientific Analysis of Olfactory Effects on Mood, Physiology and Behavior. The International journal of neuroscience. 119. 263-90. 10.1080/00207450802333953
Most of the fragrance used for aromatherapy is derived from essential oils. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that retain the natural smell and flavor, or “essence,” of their source.
Interesting Facts about Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy can reduce stress – think about the feeling you get whenever you get a whiff of your favorite perfume! or the scent of fresh baked bread! what about the relaxing effects of a fragrant candle while taking a long bath? Remember how that massage with a blend of fragrant oils literally soothed your cares away? that’s the magic of aromatherapy!
- Some aromas are actually aphrodisiacs – you may not be very aware of it but one of the reasons you are attracted to your partner is because of how they smell! yes, I know it’s weird but its also quite true that men and women produce pheromones that attract their mates!
- Aromatherapy has been utilized for decades in a variety of ways, essential oils have been added to candles, oils, and even pillows. In fact you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to a spray bottle filled with water and spray your face whenever you need to feel refreshed!
Many have derived benefits from this type of therapy and you may be surprised that it has been used to cure a variety of ailments including obesity, cigarette addiction, pain management, and depression.
So the next time you feel stressed and overworked just spray yourself with your feel-good fragrance or light an aromatherapy candle. There are companies like Waft that make customized scents just for you so if you haven’t been able to find a scent you love, you can just go ahead and create your own signature scent! In fact, just go ahead and create a few!
Take care of yourselves until we see you again here at Healing Waters Spa.