Massage and Oils

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. Apricot 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 vitami 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 oilsr Essential oil or oilsr 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.