It’s Aromatherapy Awareness Week (10th-16th June 2024)
Every year in the second week of June the International Federation of Aromatherapists celebrates Aromatherapy Awareness Week! To celebrate this special occasion, MindBody Oasis has put together an article sharing 10 fascinating facts about aromatherapy as well as 2 very special offers. Read on to find out more…
10 Fascinating Facts about Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a caring, hands on therapy which seeks to induce relaxation, to increase energy, to reduce the effects of stress and to restore lost balance to mind, body, and soul – Robert Tisserand.
1. Ancient Beginnings
Aromatherapy isn’t a modern invention. Its roots trace back to ancient civilisations. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese all used essential oils for medicinal, spiritual, and cosmetic purposes. The Egyptians, for example, were master perfumers, creating complex blends like kyphi, which was used for everything from religious ceremonies to treating asthma.
2. The Healing Power of Scent
Our sense of smell is incredibly powerful. Inhaled scents can bypass the rational brain and directly influence the limbic system, which controls emotions and memories. This is why certain smells can evoke strong emotional responses and even alter mood and cognitive function. Aromatherapy massage therapists are able to use blended oils to activate a desired mood or boost energy levels in their clients.
3. Scientific Backing
While often associated with spa treatments, aromatherapy has a growing body of scientific evidence supporting its clinical benefits. Studies have shown that essential oils like lavender can significantly reduce anxiety levels, improve sleep quality, and even enhance pain management.
4. Aromatherapy in Modern Medicine
Aromatherapy is increasingly integrated into healthcare settings. Hospitals and clinics around the world use essential oils to help patients cope with pain, anxiety and nausea. For instance, peppermint oil is often used to alleviate postoperative nausea and improve digestion.
5. Customised Healing
Essential oils can be blended to address specific health issues. For example, a mixture of eucalyptus, peppermint and tea tree oil can be effective in treating respiratory conditions, whilst a blend of lavender, chamomile and frankincense can promote relaxation and alleviate stress.
6. Aromatherapy and the Brain
Certain essential oils have neuroprotective properties. Research indicates that rosemary oil can enhance memory and concentration, making it a popular choice for students during exam periods. Additionally, lemon oil has been found to improve mood and cognitive performance.
7. Versatile Applications
Aromatherapy isn’t just about diffusing oils. Essential oils can be used in various forms, such as in massage, baths, compresses, and even skincare products (such as the Ziggie Bergman Zone Face Lift Elixir used in Zone Face Lift and also the ZFL Facial Reflexology oil used in Facial Reflexology and Indian Head Massage). Each method of application can target different health concerns, from skin conditions to muscle pain.
8. Historical Mysteries
One of the most intriguing historical uses of essential oils is the “Four Thieves Vinegar” legend. During the Black Death, a group of thieves used a blend of clove, rosemary, and other herbs to protect themselves from the plague while robbing infected homes. This blend is still used today for its purported immune-boosting properties.
9. Aromatherapy in Space
NASA has explored the use of aromatherapy to help astronauts manage stress and maintain psychological well-being during long missions. Essential oils like peppermint and lavender are considered for their calming and invigorating effects, proving that aromatherapy is truly out of this world!
10. Global Recognition
Aromatherapy Awareness Week, organised by the International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA), highlights the global impact of aromatherapy. Celebrated annually, this week aims to raise awareness about the clinical benefits of aromatherapy and support practitioners worldwide, showcasing the therapeutic potential of this ancient practice.
Conclusion
Aromatherapy offers a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science, providing holistic health benefits that go beyond just pleasant scents. Whether you’re looking to enhance your mood, relieve pain, or improve your overall well-being, the power of essential oils is both intriguing and transformative.
Special Offers
Join MindBody Oasis in celebrating Aromatherapy Awareness Week and discover how this timeless therapy can make a difference in your life. During this week only: 10th and 16th June you can use the discount code AROMA-20 to book in any aromatherapy massage before the end of June 2024 and save 20% (valid for back, leg and back as well as full body aromatherapy massage). The code is valid only until 16th June, so book in without delay.
Also, on offer this week is a free Aromatherapy Leg & Back Massage worth £48 if you sign up to one of our membership plans: an amazing, highly cost effective way of committing to self-care on a monthly basis. To claim your free treatment, please email contact@mindbodyoasis.co.uk, showing proof of your subscription and you will receive a unique code for a free aromatherapy massage of your choice.