There is nothing as soothing as a massage. Now couple it with aromatherapy and you are in for a few moments of pure bliss, where you can drink in the healing effects of a relaxing and rejuvenating treatment for your body, mind and soul.

Aromatherapy was originally said to be the practice of using infused aromatic oils as a mood enhancer, and its first use is said to have roots in China. However, the actual term “aromatherapy” first came to light in 1937 when a French chemist, Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, used the therapeutic power of oils to assist with healing burns.

It is no wonder that the aromatherapy massages offered by the Legacy Balance Spas continue to be an all-time favourite among patrons. Clients return time and again, using the massages as a means to reduce stress, alleviate headaches and, in some cases, as an additional help to those suffering from depression and anxiety, PMS and back pain.

How does it work? “Aromatherapy uses the scent of essential oils to heal the body. The essential oils used are concentrated oils extracted from the flowers, fruit, seeds, leaves and bark of particular plants,” states Margarita Ioannou, director of operations at Legacy Balance. “Each different oil is said to have a unique healing effect on the body. With more than 400 essential oils available today, the list of ailments they target are endless,” but according to the Legacy Balance therapists, “there are only about 40 of these oils that are regularly used in aromatherapy treatments to achieve desired results.”

Some of the more common oils uses for relaxation and calming include chamomile, lavender, bergamot and geranium. For energy and upliftment oils such as ylang ylang, clary sage, rose and neroli are used. Conversely, rosemary oil is great for energising and cleansing. And for decongesting and soothing aching muscles, your massage may be made up of a combination of peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus.

Getting the mix right Each and every oil has a very specific use and therapeutic benefit, which makes it critical to get the mix right and achieve the desired results.

“We suggest you speak with your Legacy Balance Spa therapist about what you’d like to accomplish during your treatment. Essentially, a therapist trained in the art of aromatherapy will blend three to four essential oils in a carrier oil to use during the massage. Some common questions your therapist may ask you could include: do you want to release some stress, recover from a heartbreak or emotional stress, or do you want more energy?” adds Margarita.

Tricks of the trade According to the team at Legacy Balance, it is essential that you keep the oils on your body for as long as possible after the massage. This will ensure that their healing properties seep into your bloodstream and work their magic. So, no heading straight into the shower after your treatment.

Remember that the aroma of the essential oil has an effect on the limbic system, which is absorbed via the nostrils. The limbic system is responsible for controlling emotions and also affects the nervous system and hormones. This means that simply breathing in the scent of the oils can affect your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure, stress levels, memory, digestion and immune system.

Good vibrations “Essential oils are one of the best ways to help with moods and emotions. We all deal with emotional ups and downs, and I find that essential oils are a brilliant way to help me manage and survive those emotional and stressful times. I suggest that you speak to one of our Legacy Balance therapists; they know how to make your massage a personal experience. They look. They listen. They tune in to you, performing transformative treatments, personalised to respond to the ever-changing nature of your needs,” ends Margarita.

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