What is Aromatherapy Massage? 

If you’re looking for a relaxing treatment to ease away your stress and tension, look no further than an aromatherapy massage Malaysia. This unique combination of scented oil and classic massage techniques will leave you feeling revitalised and refreshed. 

The science behind aromatherapy massage has been around for 6,000 years and uses essential oils to help promote mental, physical and emotional wellbeing. Essential oils are extracted from the flower or leaves of a plant and are very concentrated, so they have to be mixed with a carrier oil or base lotion before they can be applied to your skin. Carrier oils act as a lubricant during the massage and also help to nourish your skin, so it’s important to choose one that suits your complexion and skin type. 

When the oils are added to a massage, they help to enhance the therapeutic benefits of the treatment and are able to penetrate deep into your muscles and tissues. A study found that patients receiving two aromatherapy massages per week were able to relax more quickly than those who had only one massage. Plus, their levels of the stress hormone cortisol were significantly reduced. 

Aside from the obvious benefit of relieving stress and easing pain, it is thought that the scent of the oils can also influence your mood and emotion by directly impacting on your limbic system which is linked to your sense of smell. For example, lavender is the most common oil used in massages and is known for its calming effect, while lemongrass can help boost your energy levels and improve immune function. 

Interestingly, a massage is the perfect treatment to get before bed as it triggers your body’s ‘relaxation response’ which slows your heart and breathing rate, lowers blood pressure and decreases production of the stress hormone cortisol by up to 53%. This all helps to ensure you get that good night’s sleep so you can wake up feeling fully recharged. 

The instantaneous reaction to a therapist’s touch also stimulates the brain into producing those feel-good ‘happy’ hormones serotonin and dopamine, which gives you a natural euphoric high. It also increases oxytocin, the ‘love’ hormone and is responsible for feelings of bonding and cuddling with your partner, as well as reducing levels of those stress hormones that weaken your immune system – cortisol and norepinephrine. 

However, it’s very important to mention any medical conditions or allergies to your therapist before your aromatherapy massage as some oils may cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some people. Your therapist will be able to provide you with information about the oils and their benefits so that you can make an informed decision as to what’s right for you.

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