INTRODUCTION
Massage is a touch therapy that is not only a wonderfully pleasurable and relaxing experience,but also brings countless health benefits.A massage treatment can relieve tension in the body,calm the mind and nourish the soul,bringing healing on a number of different levels simultaneously.
In general terms there are two main approaches in massage: those that are “energy” based,and those that are more concerned with muscular psysiology,though the trend is towards increasing integration.
Energy based approaches are influenced by ideas from the East,where it is widely believed that a universal life force runs through the body.In India,energy centres known as “chakras” are believed to run down the centre of the body,each affecting a different aspect of life.In the Far East,life energy is believed to be channelled along “meridians” that run through the body.Energy-based techniques such as shiatsu use thumb or finger pressure at points along the meridians to help release blocked energy,enabling it to flow freely.Reiki is a therapy in which the practitioner channels a form of healing life-force energy for the highest good of recipient.In the West,there is more of a tradition of muscular-based massage.This apprach is more concerned with psysiology and focuses on the muscular-skeletal system.It is generally a fairly firm style of massage,and sports massage has grown out of this tradition.
PREGNANCY MASSAGE
Pregnancy is a time of physical and emotional change for a woman,and it is important that,however busy,she finds time to take good care of herself and her body.Massage is a soothing and beneficial therapy during advisability with a family doctor the prenatal period,but because of complications and conditions that can occur,it is important to check first on its advisability with a family doctor or obstetrician.
Massage over the abdomen during the first three months of pregnancy should be avoided,and also in cases of toxemia,high blood pressure,severe water retention,and swelling of the hands,feet and face.However,when a pregnancy is going smoothly,massage with the appropriate essential oils can help reduce feelings of nausea,minimize stretch marks,combat fluid retention,and alleviate the stress and strain on muscles and joints that result from carrying the extra weight
For more information here you can find the Pregnancy Guides:
Pregnancy and Childbirth: A holistic approach to massage and bodywork
Massage for a Peaceful Pregnancy: A Daily Book for New Mothers and Fathers
Aromatherapy and Massage for Mother and Baby
AROMATHERAPY
The Aromatic Bath
The relaxing and remedial properties of water and of massaging oils into the body were recognized in ancient Greek and Roman cultures,when bathing first became a daily ritual.
A bath with essential oils it is one of the simplest and most effective aromatherapy treatments.it can be stimulating or relaxing,depending on the temperature of the water and whether you choose oils with uplifting or calming properties.in the bath,the therapeutic action of the oils is two-fold: they are absorbed through the skin,moisturizing the dermis and entering the circulatory system,and at the same time their aromas are inhaled,stimulating the brain and increasing your sense of wellbeing.
An aromatic bath can detoxify the body,help problems like cellulite,joints stiffness,general aches and pains,colds and headaches,tone and condition skin,and relieve anxiety and tension.
Oils for relaxing: Basil,Bergamot,Cedarwood,Chamomile,Lavender,Patchouli,Rose,Sage,Sandalwood,Ylang ylang
Oils for stimulation:
Cypress,Eucalyptus,Fennel,Lemon,Lemongrass,Peppermint,Pine,Rosemary,Thyme
