mmmm....aromas!

One thing people often notice when they enter the massage room is the aroma - a mix of massage oils and gorgeous eco soy wax melts.

Aromatherapy is becoming increasingly popular as we learn more about how our sense of smell is linked with our well-being. Essential oils are beneficial not just because of a pleasant aroma, but they also contain chemicals which treat the body in many ways. Here are some popular essential oils and their benefits:

Chamomile - healing, calming, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, digestive stimulant.

Eucalyptus - stimulating, antiseptic, aids concentration.

Frankincense - relaxing, sedative, uplifting.

Jasmine - analgesic, anti-inflammatory, balancing

Lavender - relaxing, healing, calming, uplifting, stimulating.

Lemon- stimulating, invigorating, astringent, deodorising, diuretic.

Rose - uplifting, soothing, balancing, cooling.

The two most popular massage oils with my clients are:

1. A calming blend of clary sage, frankincense, bergamot, rose maroc and camellia for ultimate relaxation.

2. A warming blend of ginger, sweet marjoram, lemon, eucalyptus and St John wort to ease tired muscles.

I have seven different massage oil blends to choose from, so please do ask if you want to try a new one next time.

If you want to recreate the aromas at home, here are some ideas:

1. Buy a wax burner and melts - they aren't expensive, and are a great way of choosing different scents as you can easily swap the wax melts whenever you want. I buy mine from DeeDees Scents in Cookridge, she has a wonderful range and sells reusable liners meaning it's simple to swap.

2. Aromatherapy diffusers - these are little electronic devices where you add water and a few drops of essential oils and voila! a lovely aroma. You can get lovely ones that radiate light out like this one for that perfect ambience.

3. If you want something on the go - choose your favourite essential oil and put a few drops on a tissue or hanky. Pop it in your bag or pocket and whenever you need a moment of calm, take it out and inhale.

4. When you're running a bath, add a few drops of essential oils. The steam from the hot water will diffuse the scent for an immersive experience.

Do you have a favourite scent or essential oil? Let me know in the comments!

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