Aromatherapy Claire Mark, CIBTAC Claire originally trained in Aromatherapy and Beauty Therapy in 1997 at the Beauty College in Northern Ireland. Since that time, all of which has been spent in the Health and Beauty Industry, Claire has developed her massage therapies attending various courses including remedial and sports, deep tissue, swedish, pregnancy/mum to be, hot stones, Thai hot poultice and Indian head massage. Using a blend of skills and experience Claire offers a bespoke massage treatment to suit each individual often using a combination of disciplines.

What it is

Aromatherapy is a massage treatment incorporating the use of essential oils to promote physical, psychological and spiritual well being. Although essential oils are more generally used in massage, they can also be added to your bath, inhaled from burners or applied in a compress to localised areas. Essential oils are extracted in various ways from plants, flowers, trees, berries, etc., then mixed with a carrier oil for use in Aromatherapy massage.

The History

The use of aromatic oils goes back at least 2,000 years BC. However, it wasn't until the 1920s that Aromatherapy as we know it today came into effect. A French chemist called Gattefosse discovered the remarkable healing abilities of lavender oil after severely burning his hand during an experiment. This work has been developed by scientists and healthcare professionals through experimentation and treatment of various physical and psychological disorders.

How Aromatherapy Massage Works

Aromatherapy massage works in several different ways. The massage itself is deeply relaxing both physically and mentally as it soothes tension and increases vital energy, making it a perfect treatment for any stress related problems. During the massage the essential oils are absorbed through the skin and go directly into the bloodstream where they will help the body to reach its natural balanced state. Essential oils also work through our sense of smell which directly affect parts of the brain and nervous system, relaxing both mind and body.

Who Can It Help?

As essential oils have many different therapeutic qualities such as anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal, they can be very beneficial in treating physical and psychological complaints ranging from digestive and respiratory problems to depression, anxiety and stress, etc.