In the Bath

The bath is the perfect place to unwind and renew body energy. Essential oils added to your bath water release special properties which penetrate your skin, and also exert their theraputic benefits through the vapour you inhale.

For maximum effect, close all windows and the bathroom door. If you are ill, nauseated or running a fever it is not advisable to take a full bath. A therapeutic bath can do wonders in speeding up recovery if you are suffering from a cold or stuffed up nose, aching muscles and joints, or just when you feel tired and run down.

Before you add an essential oils to your bath, consider first how you feel at present and then how you would like to feel. I will present a list of ways to improve problems and encourage rejuvenation.

To make a bath oil

dilute 10 drops of essential oil with 35 ml ( 1 fl oz) of almond oil and 5 ml (1/6 fl oz) of wheat germ oil. Store in an airtight, amber-coloured bottle made of glass. Add about 10 drops of the oil mix to the bath while the taps are running, either singly or in the following suggested combination:

To revitalise after a busy day

5 drops bergamot essential oil and 5 drops ylang-ylang essential oil. This is the perfect combination after a busy day, particularly if you still have to go out that evening. Add to a warm bath and relax in it for 10 minutes.

To revitalise and restore health

10 drops tangerine esential oil This oil is ideal for restoring energy levels, especially after illness.

To Calm and relax

4 drops lime flower essential oil and 2 drops rosemary essential oil and 2 drops bay essential oil and 2 drops pennyroyal essential oil. Use this blend to calm down and relax after a hard day at school or work

A relaxing Evening Bath

6 drops lavender essential oil and 2 drops chamomile essential oil and 2 drops rose essential oil

To Relax and Unwind

5 drops lavender essential oil and 5 drops rosewood essential oil

To relax, soothe and promote sleep

6 drops chamomile essential oil and 2 drops lovage essential oil and 2 drops lime flower essential oil

To soothe depressing moods

melancholy

10 drops of either roase,neroli or chamomile essential oils

anxiety

10 drops of either chamomile, neroli or lavender essential oils

anger

10 drops of either rose or chamomile essential oils

A special bath for colds

with this blend the essential oils need not be mixed with a carrier oil, but should be added straight to the bath water: 6 drops pine essential oil and 6 drops eucalyptus essential oil and 6 drops cypress essential oil. run the water as hot as you can stand it and when the bath is almost full, add the oils---breath in deeply to inhale the essential oils. Get out and dry yourself vigorously with a warm towel, and then wrap yourself up in another warm towel for a few minutes.

To finish off, rub your entire body with this mixture of oils:

80 ml (2 1/2 fluid oz) almond oil and 35 ml (1 fl oz) hazelnut oil and 5 ml (1/6 fl oz) wheat germ essential oil and 3 drops lavender essential oil and 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil and 2 drops thyme essential oil

Aromatic Showers

Even if your daily schedule does not allow time for a relaxing bath, you can still enjoy the benefits of fragrant essentil oils with an aromatic shower. To begin, rub your entie body with a little bath oil of your choice, diluted 50:50 with water. Plug the shower drain and, while showering sprinkle in the same aromatics as the water collects.

Body Massage oils

Apply immediately after bath or shower after thoroughly towel drying 85 ml (3 fl oz) almond oil and 40 ml (1 1/2 fl oz) hazelnut oil and 25 ml (1 fl oz) jojoba oil and 5 ml (1/6 fl oz) essential oil of your choice

Combine all ingredients in an amber-coloured glass bottle and seal tightly. Shake vigorously until all oils are well blended. To apply a massage oil after a bath or shower, follow these tips:

*pour a teaspoon of the oil into your palm, rub your hands together, and then apply it to the breasts and buttocks with a circular motion

*using a small amount of additional oil, rub your solar plexis six times in an ant-clockwise direction. Then stroke the remaining oil upwards over your stomach, using both hands

*pour another teaspoon of oil into your palm, rub your hands together, and massage each arm with long, firm strokes from the hand to the shoulder. Finish off by kneeding deeply, yet gently, up your arms with your fingertips *using one more teaspoon of oil, work up your legs with deep, firm strokes. Move from each ankle to the top of each thigh, working with both hands

Foot baths

Your feet communicate with the rest of your body, which is why a foot massage, combined with a therapeutic footbath, will revive your entire system.

To soak your feet, you will need a large basin large enough to hold them when they are fully stretched out. Pour in sufficient water to cover your ankles and select an essential oil or oil blend which is appropriate to how you fee. Add 3 to 4 drops to the water, or more if you do not feel it is sufficiently scented. Before soaking feet, give each one a preliminary massage.

Sauna and Jacuzzis

Those of you who are fortunate enough to own a sauna or a jacuzzi have no doubt found that it is a marvellous haven in which to unwind and restore the body functions. The whirlpool jets of a jacuzzi will gently massage the muscles, easing away any soreness, fatigue and tension. The addition of essential oils will enhance the jacuzzi's ability to calm and soothe frazzled nerves, and to restore tired and aching bodies. Saunas are extremely useful for eliminating toxins from the body. The inclusion of essentional oils in a sauna will help promote this elminative process, removing waste products and debris throug the skin. Simply include the aromatic oils of your choice in the water that you thorw on the coals, or other heat source. Mix 2 drops of essential oil with every 600 ml(20 fl oz) of water.

Ideal oils for use in a sauna are eucalyptus, pine and tea tree. They are all excellent cleansers and detoxifiers, entering the body by inhalation and exiting through perspiration. It must be remembered though, that saunas can leave you a little depleted unless you drink fluids, perferably water, at the same time. Limit your time in the sauna to avoid possible dehydration problems. Jacuzzis and saunas may both pose a health risk for people who suffer form heart or high blood pressure problems. Those with heart problems could easily be affected by the sudden temperature changes form hot to cold, and back again. With each temperature change your heart rate can increae by at least 60% or more--as much as occurs with moderate exercise. Also, as you accliatise to the highter temperatures, your blood pressure will drop. This is a definite risk to those over 50 yeras of age who are predisposed to arteriosclerosis or who have a poorly functioning heart. Such a decline in blood pressure could be the catalyst for a mild stroke.

Consider the following before you make use of either jacuzzis or saunas:

*what is your general state of health? and skin type? If you have a serious medical problem, such as diabetes, heart disorder, hypertension, obestity, kidney dysfunction or othre metabolic malfunction, or are a daily medication, consult with your health care practitioner first

*it is best to avoid extended periods of heat during pregnancy, especially in the early months

*if you have exercised vigorously first, it may not be wise to risk further water loss

*novices should limit exposure in saunas to 6 minutes or less, and veterans to no more than 15 minutes. Get out immediately if you begin to feel faint or nauseous

Afterwards shower and shampoo thoroughly to remove residual salts, acids, metals, or chemicals. Moisturize your skin and drink plenty of water to help replace lost fluids. Never drink alcohol during or after a sauna as it has a dehydrating effect on the body.

Aparet from their obvious therapeutic effects, some essential oils have definite aphodisiac properties. These exotic and captivating oils can enhance a romantic interlude with someone special in a jacuzzi.

The following blend is ideal for such an occasion, and will promote a mood of relaxation and togetherness. Add oil drops by drop in the following proportions until the water is sufficiently scented, but not overpowering. 2 drops rose essential oil and 2 drops geranium essential oil and 2 drop clary sage essential oil. Or perhaps you would prefer a blend that will nourish, moisturize and soften the skin as well. 35 ml (1 fl oz) almond oil and 15 ml (1/2 fl oz)hazelnut oil and 5 ml (1/6 fl oz) jojoba oil and 5 ml (1/6 fl oz) wheat germ oil and 10 drops rose essential oil and 10 drops geranium essential oil and 5 drops clary sage essential oil. thoroughly blend all the oils together and store in an airtight, amber coloured glass bottle. Add 10 drops of the oil blend, or more if preferred, a drop at a time, until the water is sufficiently scented.

Therapeutic Blends

Use any of the following essential oils in the jacuzzi either singly or in combination, to suit your particular needs.

Oil: basil

Beneficial effect: refreshing, uplifting, stimulating and invigorating. Especially good for anxiety and headaches.

oil: bay leaf

beneficial effect: vary aromatic; soothing to the senses and comforting to tired and aching limbs

oil: bergamot

effect: aromatic, antiseptic, refreshing, relaxing and uplifting. An inducement to restful sleep.

oil: cypress

effect: refreshing, stimulating and invigorating

oil: eucalyptus

effect: highly aromatic; refreshing, head clearing (clears a stuffy nose to help you breath more easily), and relieves muscular pain. Excellent for the sauna.

oil: geranium

effect: very aromatic, refreshing and relaxing

oil: jasmine

effect: soothing and relaxing; use in moderation as it has a powerful and heavy fragrance

oil: lavender

effect: refreshing, aromatic scent. Relaxing, calming and a natural disinfectant; benefits all skin types and is good for headaches, aching muscles, muscular pain, circulation, insomnia and cell renewal

oil: lovage

effect: relaxing and rejuventating, with natural deodorizing properties

oil: marjoram

effect: aromatic; calming; warming and fortifying; relieves tension, insomnia, headaches, muscular cramps and respiratory problmes

oil: neroli

effect: very relaxing an excellent for the skin. Use sparingly as it has a very powerful scent. Expensive to buy.

oil: orange

effect: refreshing, reviving and restoring

oil: peppermint

effect: extra invigorating, comforting, satisfying. A refreshing scent that clears the head and improves breathing. Ideal for skin problems. However, ue only in low concentrations as it can easily irritate the skin, especially on sensitive areas.

oil: pine

effect: extra invigorating with a clean, refreshing scent; reviving, cleansing, and stimulating. Excellent for sinus problems and flu.

oil: rose

effect: relaxing and calming; softens the skin. One of the least toxic oils and is very good for children

oil: rosemary

effect: refreshing aromatic scent, stimulating and invigorating; relieves stiff joints and aching muscles, good for fatigue and circulation

oil: rosewood

effect: uplifting, stimulating and invigorating

oil: sage

effect: aromatic; refrshing, relaxing and enlivening, reduces fatigue, clears sluggish skin and firms tissue. Quite toxic--use in moderation and do not use if breast-feeding. Clary sage is also comforting and satisfying, and reputed to be an aphrodisiac.

oil: sandalwood

effect: relaxing and uplifting; softens dry skin and is mildly astringent for oily skin

oil: tanderine

effect: stimulating and invigorating; helps to improve energy levels

oil: tea tree

effect: powerful antiseptic and fungicide. Highly disinfectant without being toxic; use for repiratory problems (head clearing for colds and flu), skin infections and wounds

oil: ylang-ylang

effect: calming, antiseptic, antidepressant, comforting and satisfying; use for anxiety, insomnia and frustration; regulates circulation. This oil has an extremely heavy and strong scent and must be used sparingly. Too much can cause a headache.

Inhalation

This method is particularly useful for colds, headaches, blocked sinuses, coughs and sore throats. Add 10 drops of essential oil to a handkerchief or tissue, and inhale the scent whenever needed. The handkerchief can also be placed beside the pillow at night to facilitate easier breathing. Alternatively, add a few drops of the appropriate oil to a bowl of boiling water and inhale the fumes. Steaming offers an effective and dirct method of treating respiratory and sinus problems. Oils which are ideal for vaporising are peppermint, eucalyptus and tea tree. Peppermint and eucalyptus contain menthol and eucalyptol respectively, and both have a cooling effect on the tissues an tired muscles. Other oils will help to smooth out that 'crumpled look' that dry skin can get, and restore tone to facial muscles. The action of steam is twofold, the delicate membrane of the nasal passages as well as through exposed skin, in the same ay as occurs during a facial massage. This type of treatment is especially effective and beneficial in dealing with skin complaints such as acne, a condition that requires scrupulous deep cleansing to effect a cure.

To make your own vaporiser, half-fill a ceramic bowl with boiling water and add 5 drops of oil. Hold your face about 12 inches away and cover your head with a towel large enough to form a tent; do not allow the vapor to escapt. You should not steam your face for any longer than 10 minutes.

People with overly sensitive skin, diluted red veins or who suffer form heart problems, breathing difficulties, or asthma shoud consult their health practitioner before using the inhalation.

For colds and flu

2 drops eucalyptus essential oil and 2 drops rosemary essential oil and 2 drop lavender essential oil or 2 drops tea tree essential oil and 2 drops sandalwood essential oil and 1 drop eucalyptus essential oil

For Sinusitis

2 drops each of peppermint, eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils or 2 drops each of basil, eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint essential oils

For acne

use this facial steam blend 3 to 4 times a week if acne is severe. Reduce to once a week when the condition starts to improve. 1 drop lavender essential oil and 1 drop chamomile essential oil and 1 drop neroli essential oil. Wait until the water has cooled to hand-hot temperature before inhaling

For Insomnia

Just palce one drop of lavender oil on your pillow, and you will be asleep within miutes. You can also try basil, chamomile, clary sage, juniper, neroli, or sandalwood.

For Laboured Breathing

put a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil on your handkerchief and inhale.

For Travel sickness

Put a few drops of peppermint or lavender oil on a handkerchief or tissue and inhale.

For Mental Fatigue

When your concentration is flagging, you will find that inhaling a few drops of basil or bergamot oils on a handkerchief will conquer mental fatigue

When driving

Keep your head clear and concentration focused, add a few drops of basil oil to a handkerchief and inhale as needed. However, essentail oils are not a cure for driver fatigue. If you are tired, rest until you are able to drive your car safely.

Compresses

An aromatic compress is made by soaking a piece of cotton gauze or a handkerchief in a bowl of hot water, to which the approprite essential oil has been added. Compresses provide their beneficial effects by drawing new blood and lymph to the effected area, and absorbing any toxins. This method is therefore ideal for treating bruises, wounds and sprains, chest pain and skin problems.

To make a compress add 10 drops of the appropriate essential oil to 100 ml (3 1/2 fl oz) of water. The water can be either hot or cold, depending upon your needs. The compress should be kept on the affected areas for at least 2 hours. Soak a piece of cloth in the liquid, then remove it and squeeze it gently until it stops dripping. Apply the compress to the affected area and cover with plastic wrap. To increase its ability to retain heat and to effect absorption through the skin, wrap the compress with a prewarmed towl, then place a blanket over the towel and person.

Hot compresses may be used to soothe old injuries, sprains, muscular aches and pains, neuralgia, painful periods, and skin problems. A cold compress is used to treat recent sprains, bruises or swelling and headaches. Cold compresses are far more effective if they are refrigerated first. A number of common problems can be treated effectively with compresses made with the following essential oils:

bruise and bumps:

lavender, hyssop, calendula, rosemary or geranium chilblains:

lavender, lemon, rosemary, camphor, geranium, or ginger

cramp:

basil, cypress, geranium, ginger or marjoram

dry flaky skin:

lavender

eczema, dry:

chamomile, lavender or geranium

eczema, weeping:

bergamot or juniper

fevers:

lavender, eucalyptus, melissa, peppermint, and chamomil

Grazes, Cuts and Minor wounds:

lavender, eucalyptus or thyme. For infected wounds use tea tree, chamomile, lavender, eucalyptus, or thyme

Headaches:

lavender, chamomile, majoram and peppermint. Relieve tension headaches by putting a few drops of lavender oil in the bowl of warm water, saok a handkerchief in it and wring out, then apply to the back of the neck

insect bites:

lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, melissa, or thyme

itchy skin:

chamomile

muscles, stiff and aching:

rosemary, thyme, lavender and eucalyptus

neuralgia:

chamomile, geranium and lavender

prickly heat:

chamomile, geranium and lavender

psoriasis:

bergamot and lavender

rash:

lavender and chamomile

rheumatism:

rosemary, oregano and thyme

sprains and strains:

eucalyptus, lavender, thyme and chamomile

sunburn:

lavender and chamomile

Vaporisation

Essential oils can be used to perfume or disinfect a room in a number of different wasy. They can remove stal and unwanted odours, add a pleasurable fragrance to a bedroom or create a special atmosphere, make a house seem inviting to guests or freshen a sick room, and kill airborne viruses and prevent bacteria from spreading. Try the following ideas to give your surroundings a fragrant air:

* add a few drops of essential oil to a shallow dish of warm water set on a sunny windowsill, or near a radiator. A few drops of rosewood oil is an ideal way to refresh a stuffy room

* moisten a sponge with boiling water and add a few drops of essential oil. Place the sponge in a dish in the bathroom or a sick room, and moisten it with boiling water twice a day. Refresh the sponge with a few extra drops of oil twice a week. Use lavender or peppermint oil in a sick room as additional protection against bacteria

*help to revitalise your body and restore health after illness by adding tangerine oil to your bath; or, take it as an inhalation

*burning essentail oils will kill airborne bacteria and fungi. Try thyme, lavender, pine or eucalyptus for their fresh fragrance and disinfectant qualities

*burning oil in a simmering pot will gently disperse the fragrant vapour. A simmering pot is a small ceramic vessel which is open at the top, and has a ceramic saucer that sits over this opening. A small candle inside the vessel provides the necessary heat. To use your oil burner, add about 10 drops of your chosen oil to 1 cup of boiling water. Preheat the saucer by lighting the candle underneath and then 3 quaters fill it with the fragrant water, topping up as required

*terracotta scent pots are another delightful way to perfume roosm or cupboards with your favorite scents. Hang the empty pot in an appropriate place and add 6 drops of oil to start, then 1 to 2 drops every week. the terracotta holds the fragance and gently releases it into the air. Simmering pots and terracotta scent pots are both available from herb, craft and gift shops.

*in a sauna add 2 drops of pine or eucalyptus oil to a ladle of water, or 15 drops to a small bucket of water, for very pleasant inhalation with an antiseptic effect.

*sprinkle a few drops of essential oil on a tissue and place it in the air vent of your car, this will keep it smeeling fragrant and fresh as you drive. Citrus oils will refresh stale air, while basil and peppermint will help you to remain focus

*long hours of studying are taxing to both the mind and body. To help you cope and remain alert, add a drop of essential oil to page in each book that you are using. Try any of the following:

basil----to clear your head

bergamot--to bring freshness

cardamom--to reducing mental fatigue

lavender--for physical and mental tension

rose--to lift your spirit

tangerine-to increase energy levels

*to counter stress, add a few drops of essential oil to your bath water. Choose from lavender, sandalwood, ylang ylang and rose. A mixture of lavender and rosewood in an evening bath is a great way to unwind.

*to create a particular mood, essential oils can be added to a pump-spray bottle with a fine mist setting and simply sprayed into the air. Choose from any of the following oils to create that special atmosphere:

rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang romantic, lazy and warm; use in small smarts cinnamon, orange and clove spicy and warm, frankincense and myrrh. festive patchouli cosy rosewood reassuring sandalwood relaxing and exotic; encourages; conversation ylang-ylang exotic

Combing and Blending Oils

Mixing fragrant essential oils is an art in itself. At first no doubt you will find yourself mixing some curious blends! Trial and Error, along with a sensitive nose, should give you the desired results. Some problems and people respond to more dilute solutions, while other circumstances will require a greater strength. Start with average blend, or less, as your guideline and work from there. It is far easier to adjust a recipe by adding oils than to tone down an overly strong blend.

Massaging provides a good example of the uses or different blends of oils; you may find that a lower concentration gives me the best results for emotional problems, whereas a higher concentration will often be more successful in dealing with physical complaints.

Do not assume that for oils to be effective they must alays be combined with many other oils. Quite often a single oil will be sufficient for a particular need. When you do blend oils, do not use any more than three. More may quite easily confuse the body systems and cancel out and beneficial effects. There are, however, exceptions to this rule, and in these instances a recipe is provided.

The following will give you a basic idea as to which oils can be blended with each other. It is by no means "carved in stone", but will rather, provie a good starting point. Experimentation will enable you to explore further possibilities for particular applications.

Basil: blend with: bergamot, geranium, hyssop, neroli, marjoram, melissa and lavender

bergamot: blend with: chamomile, coriander, cypres, geranium, jasmine, lemon, myrrh, rose and sandalwood

black pepper: blend with: cypress, frankincene and sandalwood. All spice oils

camphor: blend with: frankincense and neroli

chamomile: blend with: bergamot, geranium, lavender, lemon, marjoram, neroli, rose and ylang-ylang

clary sage: blend with: bergamot, citrus oil, cypress, geranium, jasmine, juniper, lavender and sandalwood

clove: blend with: basil, citrus and spice oils

coriander: blend with: bergamot, cypress, lemon, neroli, orange and spice oil

cypress: blend with: bergamot, clary sage, juniper, lavender, lemon, orange, and sandalwood

eurcaylptus: blend with: hyssop, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, melissa, pine, and rose

franckincense: blend with: all oils

geranium: blend with: all oils

ginger: blend with: citrus and spice oils

hyssop: blend with: clary sage, lavender, rosemary, sage and citrus oils

jasmine: blend with: all oils

juniper: blend with: bergamot, citrus oils, cypress, geranium, lavender, rosemary, and sandalwood

lavender: blend with: most oils

lemon: blend with: chamomile, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, juniper, neroli, and ylang-ylang

lemongrass: blend with: basil, geranim, jasmine, and lavender

marjoram: blend with: bergamot, chamomile, cypress, lavender, and rosemarey

melissa: blend with: geranium, juniper, neroli, and ylang-ylang

myrrh: blend with: camphor, lavender and spice oils

neroli: blend with: most oils

niaouli: blend with: lavender, pine and mint

patchouli: blend with: basil, bergamot, geranium, juniper, lavender, myrrh, neroli, pine and rose

peppermint: blend with: black pepper, melissa, marjoran and spice oils, only blend in small amounts with other oils

pine: blend with: eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, sage, and spice oil

rose: blend with: most oils

rosemary: blend with: basil, frankincense, lavender, lemon and peppermint

sage: blend with: bergamot, hyssop, lemon, lavender, melissa, peppermint, and rosemary

sandalwood: blend with: black pepper, cypress, frankincense, jasmine, lemon, myrrh, neroli, and ylang-ylang

tangerine: blend with: frankincense, madarin, myrrh, orange, pine and spice oils

tea tree: blend with: citrus oils, lavender, rosemary and spice oil

thyme: blend with: bergamot, citrus oils, melissa and rosemary

ylang-ylang: blend with: most oil

Therapeutic Index

condition: acne essential oil: cajuput, juniper, chamomile, eucalyptus, lavender, lemongreass, and sandalwood

condition: anxiety essential oil: jasmine, lavender, marjoram, neroli, basil, bergamot, chamomile, frankincense, geranium, juniper, rose, melissa, and sandalwood

condiiton: apathy essential oil: jasmine and rosemary condition: appetite, loss of essential oil: chamomile, bergamot, black pepper, ginger, hyssop, myrrh, and sage

condition: arthritis essential oil: chamomile, cypress, sage, juniper, lemon, theymre

condition: athelet's foot essential oil: myrrh and lavender

condition: bruises essential oil: hyssop, calendula and fennel

condition: burns and scalds essential oil: (note always seek medical advice for severe burns and scalds)--lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus and geranium

condition: capillairies, broken essential oil: chamomile, cypress, rose, lavendar and neroli

condition cellulite essential oil: cyrpess, fennel and oregano

condition: circulation, poor essential oils: black pepper, juniper, cypress and lavender

condition: chilblains essential oils: lavender, lemon and camphor

condition: colds essential oils: lemon, pine and tea tree

condition coughs essential oils: cypress, eucalyptus and tyme

condition cramps essential oil: basil, cypress and marjoram

condition dandruff essential oil: chamomile, juniper, lavender and rosemary

condition depression essential oil: camphor, chamomile, jasmine, thyme, basil, gergamot and geranium

condition eczema, dry essential oil: chamomile, geranium, hyssop and lavender

condition: eczema, weeping essential oil: bergamot and juniper

condition: fevers essential oils: basil, black pepper, chamomile, eucalyptus, melissan and peppermint

condition: flu essential oils: black pepper, eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary and cypress

condition hair loss essential oils lavender, rosemary and sage

condiiton hay fever essential oils chamomile, cypress, lavender, lemon, pine and rose

condition headaches essential oils chamomile, lavender, lemon and marjoram

condition insect bite essential oil lavender, basil, cinnomon, lemon, melissa, sage and thyme

condition insomnia essential oils basil, chamomile, lavender, marjoram, neroli, rose and ylang ylang.

condition itchy skin essential oil chamomile

condition menstruation painful essential oils cypress, oregano, peppermint, and sage

condition mental fatigue essential oils rosemary, basil and pepperment

condition mosquito repellent essential oils eucalyptus, clove, geranium lavender and peppermint

condition muscular aches essential oils eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, and black pepper

condition muscle stiffness essential oils rosemary and thyme

condition nausea essential oils peppermint, basil, black pepper, lavender and rose

condition nervousness essential oils basil, bergamot, chamomile, geranium, neroli, and rose

condition neuralgia, facial essential oils chamomile, geranium, eucalyptus and peppermint

condition psoriasis essential oils bergamot, cajuput and lavender

condition rheumatism essentail oils rosemary, ginger, oregano, pine and thyme

condition shingles essential oils eucalyptus, geranium and peppermint

condition shock essential oils camphor, melissa, neroli, and peppermint

condition sinusitis essential oils basil, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, pine and thyme

condition skin, chapped essential oils benzoin, pathcouli, chamomile, geranium, and rose

condition skin, spots essential oils juniper, lavender and lemon

condition sprains essentia oils eucalyptus and lavender

condition stress essential oils neroli, and juniper

TIPS FOR A MORE ENJOYABLE MASSAGE

In addition to creating the right atmosphere, the following tips will help to take the massage a more enjoyable experience.

*focus fully on the masasge and on the preson being massaged

*support the body part which is being massaged

*when massaging the front of the body, place a small pillow underneath the head and another underneath the knees

*try to keep all distractions to an absolute miniumum

*ask your parnter if there are any partiuclar tension spots that need special attention. Likewise, check if there are nay spots that should be avoided, such as skin eruptions or bruises

*maintain a constant, even rhythm in your movements

*silence is the golden rule, any discussion about what you are doing will only interfer with full sensual appreciation

*always remember to balance your movements

*if you are receiving the massage, empty your mind of all thoughts...allow your body to hang loose, to become limp and relaxed

*to maximize the benefits of a neck and shoulder massage, have a moderately warm shower first. Do not have the water too hot or your skin will not absorb the beneficial oils

*if you are giving the massage, concentrate on breathing regularly, and more slowly and deeply than normal. This will help you to establish a good, constant rhythm and will prevent you from tiring to quickly

*keep your partner warm..when you have finished massaging an area cover it with a warm towel

Back Massage

as the recipient to lie face down with their arms comfortably positioned along their sides or, if it is more comfortable for them, place a cushion under their forhead. Before you start, it is important to establihs contact with the person being massaged. Do this by placing one of your hadns on the rown of the head and the other at the base of their spine for a few seconds. While you are doing this, allow yourself to relax by breathing slowly and deeply. Pour about a teaspoon of your selected massage oil into one hand. Rub your hands together and storke the whole of the back evenly with the oil. Place your hands on one side of the spine, with your fingers pointing upward. Start massaging from the base of the back, working up from the buttocks and stroking lightly up the back to the base of the neck. Then slide your hands across the shoulders and bring them down lightly to the starting position. As the skin begins to warm up, you can gradually aply firmer pressure. Continue to massage using long effleurage strokes, moving your hands to one side of the body. Start to kead the flesh, using petrissage, working up the back and across the top of the shoulders. There is very little flesh on the back, however it is still possible to knead and squeeze the shoulders, hips and buttocks. On the less fleshy areas knead more lightly using just your thumb and forefinger. Repeat on the opposite side of the body.

Start again at the buttocks, using small friction movements along either side of the spine. Work up to the neck, over the shoulder blades and back down to the hips. Use both hands simultaneously to apply pressure to the muscles, but not to the bones. Follow with gentle tapotement on the back and more energetic movements on the buttocks. Finish with a few long and slow effleurage strokes; conclude by resting both hands lightly on the small of the back for a few seconds.

Leg Massage

Start and finish on the back of one leg at a time. PUt a little oil in the palm of your hand, gently rub your hands together and run them up the back of the first leg, pausing at the knee, then continuing upward. Stroke lightly down the leg and firmly back up to the buttocks--this encourages the flow of blood and lymph. Do this several times, being careful never to apply pressure to the backs of the knees. Knead any cellulite spots in the thighs and follow with effleurage strokes. Finish by running your hand up to the top of the thigh and sliding your hands off and outwards. Repeat this procedure to the other leg. This time finish by running your hands up to the top of the thigh, and over the back to the shoulders. Rest your hands here for a few seconds, then slid them outwards and off. Ask the recipient to roll over. Remember to use towels to keep the person receiving the massage warm. Place your hands across the first leg and begin stroking sideways, one hand after the other, from the instep to the top of the thigh then back down again. Do this several times, applying firm pressure as you go up and light, gentle strokes as you come down. Next, massage around the knee and ankle using gentle effleurage strokes from the ankles to the tops of the thighs. Move to the foot, lift the leg slightly, and bring your thumbs up over the arch to the Achilles tendon, kneading in a circular motioin from the sides of the heel up to the calf. Finish by knuckle-kneading the sole and arch of the flat part of the knuckles. Repeat on the other leg.

Foot Massage

Whether enjoyed alone or as part of the a complete body massate, food massage is a real treat. However, feet should be bathed before you start--smellly feet are offensive. Put a small amount of oiil in the pam of your hand and lightly rub your hands together. Place one under the sole of the foot and the other on top. Gently stroke both hands up to the heel and down to the big toe several times, working the oils well into the foot. Next, place your hadns on each ankle, thumbs resting on top, commence circular kneading movements all around the ankle and foot, then knead up and down the top part of the foot with your thumbs, pressing the sole from beneath with your fingers. Move to the toes and knead up and down each one between your thumb and forefinger. Then wrap your hands around the foot,so your thumbs meet under the sole, while your fingers rest on the top, and knead the entire sole between your thumbs and fingers. you will need to use good firm presure, as the sole is a heavily padded spot. Rest your thumbs on the heel and slide along from the heel to the toes, moving from the sides of the foot to the centre of the sole. Repeat this movement several times, again using firm, strong strokes.Repeat to other foot.

Arm Massage

Rub a little oil between your hands. Take hold of one of the recipient's hands and, with your free hand, stroke the outside of their arm from the wrist up. Do this several times, then repeat the procedure on the inside of the arm. Knead any problem areas or cellulite and finish off with long effleurage strokes up and down the arm. Repeat on the other arm.

Massaging Chest and stomach

Rub a teaspoon of oil betwen the palms of your hands. Commense by stroking down the neck and out towards the shoulders; do this several times. Then move from the neck area down over the collarbone to the chest, starting with light gentle strokes and gradually incrasing the pressure. Friction massage te entire chest. With a female, however, avoid the delicate breast area unless, of course, you are very familiar with that person.Then you can use very gentle and light stroking movements across the breasts with your fingertips. This is simply add enjoyment to the massage rather than be any therapeutic value. Next, stroke lightly towards the stomach. With the palm of one hand, stroke firmly over the whole of the abdomen several times in a clockwise direction, then repeating the same procedure with the other hand. Follow with petrissage, gently kneading and squeezing the flesh round the hips and wasit. Change to effleurage, which is genle butterfly strokes upwards from the abdomen, moving each hand up the rib cage to just beneath the armits and then lightly gliding the hans back down. Repeat several times. Finish by gently stroking the whole chest and stomach area, then lightly glide your fingertips up to the shoulders and gently back down again over the full length of the body.

Head, Neck and Shoulders

First, focus on the recipient's neck. Place your hands on one side of their neck and make small circular movements with your fingers. Massage along the sides and back of the neck, from the base of the skull to the shoulders. Repeat these movements on the other side of the neck. Cradle the base of the recipient's skull in both your hands, letting your thumbs hang free. Stroke back and forth on the neck, pressing up against the muscles. Without changing this position, begin to massage the base of the skull with your fingers using a ivbrating motion. Next, place one hand over the top of the recipient's head and the other at the base of the skull to support it. Press down with your top hand, moving back and forth in circles from the hairline to the back of the head. Then gently lift the head and continue down the back of the neck. Finish massaging the head by kneading the scalp with small circular movement, using your fingres. Place your fingertips over the top of the recipient's shoulders with your thumbs sitting on the base of their necky. Begin working your fingertips and thumbs well into the muscles, using rhythmic, circular kneading movements. Thoroughly work all tense areas on the side of the neck.

here the terminology for massage 1) effleurage---gilding the hands with long, even strokes over the surface of the skin. Generally a light, stimulating movement. 2) Tapotement--short quick blows with your hands or fingers. These movements stimulate nerves and muscles, and boost circulation. Some of the techniques are: backing (edge of palm), slapping (flat of the hand), tapping (fingertips), cupping (cup-shaped hands), beating (edge of fist). 3) Petrissage--kneading of muscle tissue. Includes pressing, squeezing, rolling, and picking up the muscles. Performed with hands and thumbs and, for small areas with the thumb and forefinger. 4) Friction--rapid, circular pressure over a particular area, using the palms or thumbs and fingertips. 5) Vibration--rapid back and forth trembling pressure movements, using either the fingers or hands.

I hope this sheds some light on the wonderful world of massage hugs, take care, god bless, much peace, paula