Massage and Oils

Image : http://www.flickr.com

Massage is a healing therapy involving manipulation of the body's soft tissues. Massage can soothe muscle aches and pains, encourage

relaxation, stimulate the circulation of blood and encourage the flow of lymph. Massage also has beneficial effects on the skin as well as calming and uplifting the mind.

There are numerous styles of massage but essential to most forms of massage (most but not all) is the selection of an appropriate massage oil. While used primarily for lubrication, the oil selected can also have benefits for the skin, as well as assisting the massage itself.

When selecting an oil for massage, each therapist or masseur will have their own set of criteria. But some things to consider are -

The style of massage - the amount of slip and grip required

The client 's skin type - dry or oily, how hairy they are (absorbs more oil), any sensitivities or allergies.

The purpose of the massage - whether the massage will be improved or enhanced by the addition of appropriate essential oils. Eg calming oils such as lavender for a relaxation massage

If using essential oils, take into account the aroma preferences of the client.

The needs of the masseur - your own aroma preferences, any skin conditions or potential reactions.

Choosing the most appropriate oil and in the correct amount, should give you the slip and control necessary to carry out the massage while leaving your client with smooth soft skin that is not overly greasy.

Massage oils can be as simple as a single carrier oil such as -

Sweet Almond - very moisturising, rich in EFAs and vitamins A & E. Light both in odour and colour and while it is suitable for all skin types, is particularly useful for dry or sensitive skin.

Aprocot Kernel - similar to Sweet Almond oil chemically, but with a wonderfully light consistency and aroma making it particularly suitable for facial massage and treatments.

Grapeseed Oil - a light, gentle, emollient oil with a low odour and good penetration. Readily absorbed by the skin and carries a low risk of allergy. Especially popular with professional massage therapists.

Jojoba Oil - not an oil, but a liquid wax, with natural moisturising and healing properties and suitable for all skin types. Like grapeseed oil, it is not a nut oil so very suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Macadamia Nut Oil - a thick oil recommended for mature or very dry skin due to its high levels of palmitoleic acid, a mono-unsaturated fatty acid not found in most oils.

These oils can be used singly or in combination and may benefit from the addition of other oils such as -

Evening Primrose Oil - rich in EFA's and in particular GLA, it is very moisturising and rejuvenating, softening and smoothing the skin. It is particularly useful for excessively dry skin or for mature skin.

Rosehip Oil - high in EFA's and vitamin C. Emollient and readily absorbed into the skin and is particularly useful for mature, dry or damaged skin.

Wheatgerm Oil - renowned for its high content of Vitamin E, an antioxidant, as well as fatty acids and is particularly useful for dry or mature skin.

One of the basics of rules of aromatherapy is that they must be diluted to be applied to the skin.

Making your own massage oil is another option to capture the wonderful benefits of using essential oils. Massage oils can also be used as body oils, as a way of moisturising and protecting your skin in a similar way to a body lotion.

To Make a Massage Oil

Equipment and ingredients -

- A bottle to make and store your completed oil (preferably glass)
- Carrier oil or oils
- Essential oil or oils
- Labels

The method of making each of these oils is the same. Add the essential oils to the bottle first, then top up with the carrier oil. Screw the cap on firmly then shake gently until combined. Lastly add a label on which you have noted what the blend is for, the ingredients used and the date it was made. Most blends made this way will keep for at least 3 - 6 months if kept in a cool dark place.

You can keep them in the fridge in hot weather if you like.

Friends Link : Essential Oils Massage Grapeseed Oil Massage Ylang Ylang Massage Oil Ylang Ylang Massage Oil Grapeseed Oil Massage

Pain Massage Oils - Do They Really Work?

Image : http://www.flickr.com

Massage therapies and therapeutic oils go hand-in-hand for relaxation and pain relief. But for a professional massage there has to be an appointment made and money paid to get any relief. If you have a willing partner at home, or if there are areas of pain that can be done alone, then why not create your own therapeutic massage oils. You can save time and money alone with the convenience of at-home massages. These pain and relaxation massage oils are easy to make and are cheaper in costs than to purchase ready made oils.

The main oil base can be most any oil that is cold-pressed or expeller-pressed. They are both carrier oils with very little processing and this is important for last longer during the massage therapeutic session. To store your oil when not being used, the best place is to be cool and dry, while it should have 300 IU's of vitamin E per each pint of oil. Vitamin E should be added every 4 weeks to the oil during storage to keep the oil from breaking down. It is the various blends of essential oils or oils distilled from the many various plants, roots or seeds that will do the specific healing of pain during the initial massaging of the inflamed area.

Some of these essential oils include pleasingly scented ones like, sweet almond oil that acts as an anti-inflammatory relief. Sweet almond oil is a light blend and good for most all skin types, and especially dry skin. Apricot kernel oil will reduce stress, provide balance, and can improve prematurely aging skin. Borage oil is good for eczema and psoriasis, while penetrating deeply to regenerate and stimulate for healing. Neem oil is anti-inflammatory and is used for arthritis, sore muscles, bruising and eczema. The Kukuk nut oil is an anti-bacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory being lightweight and warm oil. Olive oil also gives a nice warming effect for relieving stiffness throughout your muscles and joints.

There are many more essential oils to blend with good carrier oil for various types of relief and relaxation. Some therapeutic essential oils are sandalwood, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, orange, peppermint, patchouli, lemon, rose, jasmine, basil, and cedar and tree oil. These are only a few of many other mixtures for blending to a specific need. There are several ways to find out the exact essential oils that you desire. Most all organic stores and independent markets has an area were all of these types of oils are sold and a knowledgeable staff member can help in your needs and questions. Of course, the Internet has a lot of information on massage oil blends.

Tags : Grapeseed Oil Massage Essential Oils Massage Ylang Ylang Massage Oil