Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils and their therapeutic properties to make one feel good, help ward off illnesses and encourage healing - through various methods such as massage, inhalation and baths.

Essential oils are extracted from various parts of plants and trees. Their therapeutic properties are used to help heal the body and mind, and they can be absorbed through the skin or lungs.

Massage is the most common form of treatment used by Aromatherapists. The combination of both touch and the therapeutic benefits of the oils help to improve circulation and release tense muscles. The oils are diluted in a carrier oil before being applied to the skin.

Like all forms of Holistic treatment, Aromatherapy works on the whole body to make one feel better generally. Throughout our lives, a caring touch is fundamental to our health and sense of well-being.

Potential benefits of Aromatherapy massage can include:

• Relief from stress and tension
• Relief from muscular aches and pains
• Improved blood and lymph circulation
• Relief from women's problems such as PMS or menopausal symptoms
• Relief from back pain and headaches
• Relief from insomnia
• Increased energy levels and feelings of vitality

Your first appointment with the Aromatherapist will last one-and-a-half hours.

During the first half hour the Therapist will begin by interviewing you. The Therapist will want to know about you, why you have come for treatment, your medical history and your stress levels. She will also want to know what medicines or other treatments you are using, as in some instances your doctor's permission may be required before treatment can commence.

The Therapist will need to determine which oils are best to use - and which to avoid if you are pregnant, have high or low blood pressure, epilepsy or sensitive skin. This ensures that the treatment is completely safe. You will then be asked to sign a consent form. An individual, confidential record card will then be kept with any relevant notes for future treatments.
 

You will be asked to undress down to you underwear and lie on a couch on your stomach, with towels over you to keep you warm and less exposed. While you do this the therapist will turn away or leave the room if you wish.

Most Aromatherapy massage tends to be gentle. During the massage the Therapist will talk very little, if at all - this depends open whether the patient wishes to converse or not.

The massage lasts about thirty to forty-five minutes. At the end you will be given time to relax before dressing.

You will be advised not to wash for a few hours so that the oils are absorbed properly. It is advisable not to wear good underwear or clothing as the oils may stain them.

Subsequent visits with a therapist will be up to an hour in length, and will include a brief update of any improvements or recent problems. To gain maximum benefit from the treatment you will be advised to: drink plenty of water as it helps to flush away toxins, rest, and avoid alcohol and cigarettes for at least 24 hours.

The Park Aromatherapy Practice is open at the following times:

Wednesday 3.45pm to 8pm

Saturday 9.30am to 1pm

Charges

First consultation: £35.00

Body Massage: £25.00

Julie is a fully registered Therapist insured through the GCP (Embody)