Of all the ways to de-stress and decompress, aromatherapy just might be one of the simplest. Any frazzled mom who’s had the good fortune to indulge in professional body treatments such as a massage or pedicure has surely experienced the blissful, mood-altering benefits of this treatment, which is often added on to a number of traditional spa services.
Aromatherapy, according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), is “the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of mind, body and spirit.” Those “aromatic essences,” in the form of essential oils, work their magic to relax, energize and potentially even heal.
Stroll the aisles of any supermarket or drugstore and you’re sure to find a field of products from room spray to dish soap and deodorant to shampoo, “infused” with the aroma of lavender, lemon or mint, a clear indication of the growing popularity of aromatherapy and a nod to its potential benefits.
Indulge Your Senses
While clinical research on the proven effectiveness of aromatherapy is limited, holistic therapists and practitioners say the practice has great advantages that go beyond stress relief. “Aromatherapy can be therapeutic in various ways,” says Laura Piteo, massage manager at Oasis Day Spa Westchester in Dobbs Ferry. “It can help open the sinuses, invigorate the senses, promote balance, soothe and sedate, treat headaches and inflammation … the list goes on and on.”
Oasis, a top-ranked hub of relaxation and skin and body care, offers “three choices for our standard aromatherapy services,” according to Piteo. “Arnica (a natural anti-inflammatory) has a light ginger citrus scent to warm and invigorate; lavender, which helps clients relax and regain balance; and evening primrose, which helps soothe dry skin.”
Of course, when you can’t make it to the spa, there are a few shorter routes to Zen. For one, try creating a spa bath right in the comfort of your home. Dim the lights, light a scented organic candle, sprinkle natural bath salts into a tub of warm water and enjoy a luxurious soak while allowing the aromatic wonders of your favorite fragrance to melt away your cares. Many bath salts also boast good-for-your-skin ingredients that moisturize, tone or clarify. Two treatments in one – go ahead, you deserve it!
Terri Prettyman Bowles is a Westchester-based writer, editor and content producer.
INHALE!
A Short Guide to Essential Oils
Like massage, aromatherapy treatment using essential oils is optimally performed under the watch of a professional. But if you choose to DIY, do your research. Listed here are several of the most commonly used essential oils. While these are natural substances, you should take the time to learn about potential drug interactions, allergic reactions and skin irritation, and appropriateness for pregnant women before use. “Certain essential oils are not recommended for women during pregnancy,” cautions Laura Piteo of Oasis Day Spa. “Peppermint, for example, since it stimulates blood flow; others because they can be a possible irritant. There can be sensitivities that never surfaced before, so it’s best to refrain from aromatherapy during pregnancy.” The most popular essential oil choices at her spa? “Citrus and lavender scents are probably our most popular depending on whether a client wants a reinvigorating or relaxing experience.”
Essential Oil Properties and Benefits
Chamomile – Soothing, calming; antiseptic
Clary sage – Relaxing; relieves stress
Eucalyptus – Expectorant, useful for congestion
Frankincense – Soothes inflamed skin
Jasmine – Tension relieving
Lavender – Calming; relieves anxiety
Lemon – Uplifting; detoxing
Lemongrass – Cleansing; antimicrobial
Patchouli – Anti-inflammatory
Rose – Nourishing; relieves stress
Rosemary – Expectorant; energizing
Sandalwood – Anti-inflammatory; calming
Tea tree – Antimicrobial
Ylang-ylang – Stress relieving
Read more about safety guidelines for essential oils at naha.org.
