A KNEAD TO RELAX

I have clients who come to me with arthritis pain — in the hands, knees, back and toes.  I have found that using different essential oils have given much relief for the pain.  The oils I use are not a cure, but they sure relieve arthritic pain.  Most important, massage increases circulation, which increases blood flow to all parts of the body and helps the body to move more easily, reducing pain.

Although each client is different and I am able to use my essential oils for tense back muscles, there are times when stretches are necessary.  Stretching the gluts helps to relieve contracted low back muscles and really gives relief.

I have found that using “foot reflexology” also helps to reduce pain in various parts of the body.  I begin my massage session by working on the feet first since all the nerve endings are there.  Working the feet at the beginning of the session gives the client almost immediate relaxation.  I have a client who comes to me just to get a foot massage.  She has told me that after the treatment she feels as if she’s walking on air.

When clients come to me for neck pain and headaches, I utilize deep breathing techniques and certain essential oils.  In some instances I use ice packs to reduce inflammation, or I use my marble stones.   In my hot stone massage practice, I use the cold marble stones to reduce inflammation and will sometimes use these cold stones on the face.  I refer to it as a “minnie facial” because  this refreshes the skin and is very soothing.