Hatzy Joyce
MAR, MLDUK, BFRPManual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
Link to IFPA:
Hatzy Joyce,MAR,
MLDUK, BFRP
Natural & Complementary Therapies, Cyprus
Aromatherapy and Therapeutic Massage
Aromatherapy is a light massage gently working on the lymphatic and muscular system using aromatic oils obtained from herbs, fruits, flowers, and trees to relieve tension, promote health and vitality. These oils are extracted via a distillation process, which yields extremely concentrated fluids called essential oils that are wonderfully fragrant and therapeutic. The oils are easily absorbed through the skin. Other methods of application are massages, baths, steam inhalations, hot and cold compresses, room vaporizers and creams. Their effect on the human body has been beneficially proven for thousands of years. A few of the commonly used oils are lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, geranium, rose, and rosemary.
Therapeutic massage releases knotted muscles and eases tight tendons by using deeper pressure.Benefits include:
• Relieves muscular aches and pains, headaches and migraines
• Reduces stress related ailments, like anxiety, or high blood pressure
• Shortens duration of colds and coughs
• Improves circulation and skin conditions
• Promotes relaxation and wellness
Treatment
The holistic approach involves discussing the client’s lifestyle and taking a medical history to establish any contra-indications to the treatment or to any essential oils. A few drops of essential oils, diluted in a carrier oil (almond or peach kernel oil), are picked specifically for the individual's need and are gently (or firmly) massaged onto the skin. The aromatic oils work on the body in 3 ways. Via:
1) The skin - the oils are absorbed into the blood stream and lymphatic system and transported throughout the body.
2) Inhalation - breathing in the aromas affects the respiratory system.
3) The mind - the fragrances work directly on our limbic system in the brain, which is connected to our emotions and releases pent-up feelings allowing the body to relax.
Regular
treatments can act as a preventative measure.