Ancient Chinese medical texts, dating back 4,000 years, refer to the therapeutic benefits of massage. The Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks and Romans all considered massage a powerful means of promoting well-being. At InstantCalmer in Hull, we regard massage as one of the most effective treatments for relaxation and the reduction of modern day stress. Our professional massages benefit the body’s muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems. We understand that everyone is unique, and we do everything we can to adapt our treatments to suit the individual. Aromatherapy massage is the perfect way to achieve this because the treatment combines all of the beneficial qualities of massage with the power of nature, in the form of specially blended essential oils.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils can be extracted from bark, flowers, roots, seeds, fruit, nuts or other parts of plants by a variety of processes, such as distillation and pressing. They are highly concentrated and are believed to contain the plants’ ‘life force’. The aromas belonging to these oils can then be released with the use of oil burners, incense, candles or other methods. Because these oils are so highly concentrated, they will normally have to be expertly blended with other carrier oils or lotions before they can be safely applied directly to the skin.

How Do Essential Oils Work?

The main principle behind aromatherapy is exactly as its name suggests, aromatic essential oils are used to deliver therapeutic benefits, through the sense of smell. The nasal passage is crammed with extremely sensitive receptor cells. The cells detect the essential oils, and then send signals to the brain for interpretation. Our sense of smell is very closely related to our emotional being, and specific smells have the ability to evoke a range of emotions, such as happiness, melancholy and even sexual desire. During aromatherapy, molecules of essential oils enter the nostrils and can cause direct physical responses, including a change in pulse rate, blood pressure and breathing. Continued therapy sessions over a period of time have been proven to help improve memory, digestion and boost the immune system.

When you receive an aromatherapy message at InstantCalmer, you get the added benefit of essential oils that have been expertly blended into a form where they can safely penetrate the skin, enter the bloodstream and promote whole body healing.

Your Own Personal Blend

The addition of essential oils to a massage has the added benefit of allowing the therapist and the client to tailor the treatment exactly to suit individual requirements. Healing, cleansing or relaxing blends can be created exactly as needed to restore harmony to the body. Each particular essential oil has a widely accepted mood property associated with it. For example, Bergamot and Cedar Wood are well known anxiety busters, and Jasmine is universally praised as being an effective libido enhancer as well as helpful in easing depression. Furthermore, there are well-known blends or ‘recipes’ which combine the power of several different essential oils to create a mood blend that will obliterate fatigue, feelings of isolation or low self esteem, for instance.

Because of the powerful influence of aromas over moods, aromatherapy is also used to treat emotionally related conditions, such as insomnia, headaches, digestive disorders, PMS, and back pain.

Consult with us at InstantCalmer, and we will create your own unique aromatherapy blend, which specifically targets personal requirements, and leaves you feeling balanced, energized, or tranquil, according to your wishes. An aromatherapy massage voucher is also the perfect personalised gift that any receiver is certain to love since the treatment is tailor made just for them.

Benefits of Massage with Essential Oils

Unless you’re a hardcore spiritual seeker, it’s highly unlikely that you can break away from the normal storyline of your life and retreat to a Himalayan meditation oasis. Therefore, you’re probably frequently overwhelmed by the deadlines, demands and frustrations of modern routine; even though you may not realise it, you probably suffer from the symptoms of being overstressed. At InstantCalmer we have the answers to effectively dealing with the hassles of modern day living.

Small doses of stress are actually beneficial. Stress is the body’s natural physical response to any perceived threat. Today of course, this is rarely a ravenous wild beast and more often a predatory beast of a boss or deadline. Regardless of whether you face physical or emotional danger, your body’s reaction is identical a torrent of stress hormones, such as adrenalin and cortisol, flood the body. These hormones elevate your pulse and blood pressure, quicken your breathing, and sharpen your senses. This is your body’s way of providing extra strength and stamina; giving you a faster reaction time and the ability to focus better when necessary, thus improving your overall short-term performance.

However, it’s true that too much of anything a bad thing, and too much stress certainly stops being helpful. Serious cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms often manifest in people overburdened by stress. If your brain feels frazzled, leaving you powerless to remember things, lacking in concentration and making terrible judgements, you could be suffering from stress. If you’re an emotional tempest, snapping like a crocodile, then you could also be afflicted by stress. An aching body, chest discomfort, and loss of libido are all physical symptoms of stress, as are habitual changes in appetite and sleep patterns.

We cannot eliminate stress from our lives entirely, nor should we wish to, but it is important to manage it before our health is seriously affected.

Unfortunately, one other common symptom of stress seems to be that sufferers may not even realise that they are afflicted by it. If you see a loved one struggling to cope with the pressures of their daily routine, one of our InstantCalmer massage vouchers is the perfect persuasive and tactful gift. At InstantCalmer we offer a range of massage therapies, including Aromatherapy massage, which is an excellent treatment for catering specifically to individual needs, and Hot Lava Shell Massage or Warm Bamboo Massage which are both excellent stress busters. The comforting sensation of heat provides ultimate relaxation, stilling the mind and easing the cognitive and emotional symptoms of stress. Add this to the benefits of traditional massage, which stimulates blood circulation and relieves muscular tension, and you have a perfect holistic treatments for relieving the symptoms of stress.

Recognising the Early Symptoms of Stress

If you are visiting us at InstantCalmer for a treatment, or buying one of our massage gift vouchers for someone you love, you can rest assured that you are in safe hands. I am a registered therapist with both the IFPA & CNHC, so instead of worrying, you can lie back, calm your mind and let me work a little relaxation magic.

It is important to always choose a qualified massage therapist because, in rare cases, massage therapy delivered by an unqualified person can actually do more harm than good. In the UK, the majority of complementary and alternative therapists are not regulated by the government, so you should only choose therapists who are members of reputable, independent or voluntary regulatory bodies which have clear standards for qualification.

IFPA (International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists)

This is one of the largest and most respected practitioner organisations around the world.

It is a registered charity, with the objective of promoting the well-being of the individual. Registered members of the organisation must follow a strong code of ethics and practice, which covers issues including client consent, client relationships, practitioner awareness, and guidance for working within the healthcare professions. They also provide easy access to the latest research on aromatherapy, so I can make sure that my treatments are current and in accordance with the most recent guidelines.

Essential oils must be diluted and used properly. A qualified IFPA therapist has met the IFPA criteria for education and training, so they are thoroughly educated in the safe use of essential oils, especially for aromatherapy message.

CNHC (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council)

The CNHC was established in 2008 to regulate a range of professional disciplines within the sector of complementary and alternative therapies.

The main purpose of the CNHC is to act on the public’s behalf to ensure the proper public accountability of all of the complementary therapists that it registers.

They work with complementary therapy professionals to maintain and improve standards.

When a complementary therapist is registered with the CNHC and has a CNHC quality mark, you can be sure that:

• They have met the required National Occupation Standards in their complementary therapy or discipline and have experience or training over a period of at least three years.
• They have provided independent references testifying to their good character.
• They Have no criminal record, prior to their registration with the CNHC
• They have no health issues which may affect their ability to practice safely.

For further information on the above organisations, you can visit the following websites:

www.ifparoma.org

www.cnhc.org.uk

At InstantCalmer, You’re in Safe Hands

Aromatherapy candles are a great way to make your house smell wonderful. They can also benefit your health and well-being in many ways, depending on the scent you choose. Unfortunately the aromatherapy candles found in most stores are not very budget-friendly. Luckily it is possible to create your own aromatherapy candles right at home. This not only saves you money, but allows you to create customized scents and colors. If you are wondering how to make home-made aromatherapy candles, the following tips can help.

Gather Your Supplies

The first step in making aromatherapy candles is gathering the materials you need. You will need wax, coloring, and most importantly fragrance oils. You will also need containers and wicks for your aromatherapy candles. Wax comes primarily in three types: paraffin, soy, and beeswax. Paraffin is the least expensive of the three, but emits more carbon than the others. Soy wax is becoming increasingly popular because it burns fairly clean. It costs a bit more than paraffin, but is not incredibly pricey. Beeswax is the cleanest burning wax of the three and is also the most expensive. It all depends on what your needs are and what your budget will allow. You can also use old candles that have been cut into pieces.

Next, you will need some coloring for your candles. Wax chips are available in many colors and are pretty reasonable in price. If you are using old candles, you will not necessarily have to worry about coloring. Fragrance oils are the most important part of your aromatherapy candles, as this is what gives them their scent. Essential oils are perfect because they mix well with wax and are very concentrated. Choose whichever scents you prefer. Each essential oil has different benefits so doing a little research is probably a good idea. Lavender, vanilla, peppermint, and orange oils are all popular choices for aromatherapy candles. As far as containers go, you can purchase candle molds at a craft store or use old holders that have been emptied out. Candle wicks come pre-cut at craft stores as well. It is also advisable to have some super glue and a pencil on hand to help keep your wicks in place.

Make Your Candles

You should make your candles in an area that is free of clutter. Cover your work space with newspaper to protect it from spills. Place your candle molds on the newspaper so they are in place when it comes time to pour your wax. You will also want to get your wicks in place. Place a drop of super glue on the bottom of your molds or holders and stick the wick to the drop. Tie the other end of the wick to a pencil and balance the pencil on top of the mold or holder. This will keep your wicks in place.

To make your candles, you will need a double boiler to melt your wax, a metal stirring object, and a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of your wax. You can easily create a double boiler by placing a smaller pot or metal bowl in a larger pot of water. A pound of wax is a good amount to start with, as it will make one large candle or a few smaller ones. It all depends on the size of your molds or holders. If your wax is not already broken into pieces, you will want to do so. This allows the wax to melt more evenly and quickly.

Place the wax pieces in the small pot or bowl of the double boiler, making sure the water inside the large pot does not come in contact with the wax. Gradually bring the water in the large pot to a boil over medium heat. Stir the wax occasionally with your metal stirring object. Check the temperature of the wax every so often as well, making sure it does not go over 175 degrees. As soon as the wax is melted thoroughly, turn the heat to low. You will now add your color chips and fragrance oils. Stir the color chips in first, stirring until your desired color is achieved. Next, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Essential oils are very strong, so be careful not to overdo it. When everything is combined and uniform in appearance, turn off your heat source. You are now ready to pour your aromatherapy candles into their molds or holders.

Using caution to keep your wicks in place, pour the melted wax from the smaller pot or bowl of the double boiler into your candle molds or holders. Pouring slowly will minimize the chance of air bubbles forming in your candles, so try not to pour the wax too quickly. After your candles are poured, you can tap on the sides of the molds or holders to release any air bubbles that may be trapped inside. Allow your aromatherapy candles to cool and set for at least 6 hours before removing them from their molds or burning them in their holders. It is a good idea to trim your wicks to 1/2” before lighting them, as this ensures even burning. Once lit, you will quickly realize the benefits of your aromatherapy candles. They will fill your home with a wonderful, soothing scent that you are sure to enjoy.

Even though making aromatherapy candles may seem like quite a process, it is really not that difficult once you get the hang of it. The multiple benefits of aromatherapy combined with the money you save will make it totally worth your time.

Guest post from Bailey Harris. Bailey writes for InsuranceQuotes.org. 

How to Make Aromatherapy Candles

These calming female friendly oils offer strength and support when hormones get the better of us.

Ingredients

• 50mls Sweet Almond Oil (or any good carrier oil)
• 3 drops Geranium (Perlagonium graveolens)
• 2 drops Rose (Rosa demascena)
• 3 drops Palma Rosa (Cymbopagon martini)
• 2 drops Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
• 3 drops Neroli (Citrus aurantium)
• 3 drops Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
• 5 drops Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Use

• As a Massage Blend
• As a Body Oil
• As a Bath Oil

Omit the carrier oil to make a blend for an oil burner or diffuser. Use around 10 drops at a time.

Preparation method

• Measure out the carrier oil in a glass measuring jug
• Add the essential oils one drop at a time
• Stir with glass stirring rod
• Pour into dark glass bottle with secure lid
• Label with ingredients, date blended and any safety data required 

Aromatherapy: Note and (relevant to blend) Therapeutic actions of ingredients

• Geranium – Mid. Antidepressant, Diuretic, Adrenal Cortex Stimulant,Tonic, Vulnerary
• Rose – Mid to Base. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Emmenagogue, Sedative, Tonic for the Uterus
• Palma Rosa – Top. Stimulant, Tonic
• Clary Sage – Top to Mid. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Emmenagogue, Nervine, Sedative, Tonic, Uterine.
• Neroli – Mid. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Stimulant, Tonic.
• Cypress – Mid to Base. Antispasmodic, Diuretic, Tonic
• Bergamot – Top. Analgesic, Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Diuretic, Tonic, Sedative, Stimulant, Vulnerary.

Safety Data – Geranium – Avoid in first trimester of pregnancy, can be sensitising in hypersensitive individuals. Rose – Avoid in pregnancy. Palma Rosa – No issues. Clary Sage – Avoid in pregnancy, don’t use when drinking alcohol. Neroli – No issues. Cypress – Avoid in first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Bergamot – Phototoxic (unless Bergaptene Free or FCF) and could be slight irritant. 

Aromatherapy Female Friend

It’s Mother’s Day (Mothering Sunday) on March 18th .. what better gift than an relaxing Aromatherapy Massage treatment?  InstantCalmer Massage vouchers are always a wonderful gift to receive, our special “Thanks Mum” Luxury Aromatherapy Facial is sure to impress,  the perfect way to say thank you!

If you’d like advice on the best treatment for Mum (or Grandma!) then please call us on 01482 778385, or email beccy@instantcalmer.net.  Our treatment room is conveniently situated in central Hull at the Core Health Centre and has safe off street parking.

Follow the link for details of all of our massage treatments and vouchers  (including our special Mother’s Day selection).

See you soon!

Beccy

Say “Thanks Mum!” with a fantastic Aromatherapy Massage Gift Voucher

Pregnancy is an exciting time for women, but it can often bring some undesirable side effects. Backaches, headaches, swelling and muscular tension are all common issues during pregnancy. Mums to be  often have concerns over the potential dangers of traditional pain treatments and medication. Aromatherapy pregnancy massages are a natural, healthy and holistic alternative to pain relief and can be a beneficial addition to any pregnancy treatment plan.

Essential oils are used during aromatherapy prenatal massage; derived from plants, essential oils deliver natural benefits through topical application as well as inhalation.  Pregnancy massage promotes circulation, providing relief from edema (swelling / water retention). Aromatherapy massage relaxes muscles and reduces cramping and stiffness. Massage and aromatherapy create a sense of wellbeing by lowering anxiety and depression whilst promoting restful sleep.

At InstantCalmer we practice massage techniques that are totally safe and that provide relief from the uncomfortable symptoms that occur in pregnancy. As a member of the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) you can be assured that we’re well trained and that you’re in safe hands. A pregnancy aromatherapy massage uses a customised blend of safe essential oils that concentrate on the specific needs of a pregnant woman.  Pillows and padding are used to provide a comfortable and safe experience for women in any trimester of their pregnancy. Aromatherapy pregnancy massage during the final months of pregnancy can help to promote relaxation and leave mums feeling refreshed and revived.

Most essential oils provide safe and therapeutic benefits to women during their pregnancy. However certain essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy so it is important that any treatment is provided by a qualified aromatherapy massage therapist. Women that are experiencing sensitivity to strong scents, particularly during their first trimester, may prefer to enjoy a relaxing massage without essential oils.

Aromatherapy Massage in Pregnancy

Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing techniques used to naturally improve mood and sleep patterns. Regular massage therapy sessions play an important role in the management of stress, anxiety and depression. Stress manifests as both emotional and physical symptoms requiring and is best treated with an holistic approach. Depression can cause a debilitating change to an individual’s emotional and physical health. Symptoms of depression include emotional turmoil, insomnia, chronic pain, low energy and difficulty in concentrating. The specific causes of depression can be difficult to identify so a holistic treatment plan is beneficial in achieving relief from the symptoms. Massage therapy provides a safe and nurturing treatment for individuals living with depression.

A massage provides a safe environment for the mind and body to connect. Human touch is soothing and promotes emotional healing. A massage raises self-awareness by providing an opportunity to consciously identify stress and tension.  This enhances the ability of the body to proactively release tension before it manifests in negative ways. Self-awareness promotes confidence and emotional stability. Massage creates a sense of euphoria by releasing stress and relaxing the body.

Massage stimulates skin causing the body to release the mood enhancing chemicals. Dopamine and serotonin create a sense of wellbeing and euphoria. Additionally, massage reduces the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, further promoting relaxation. Massage also stimulates organ systems to provide optimal functioning of the body. Invigorating the body boosts energy and concentration whilst simultaneously releasing endorphins that relieve symptoms of pain and depression.  Massage enhances physical health as well as reducing the negative impact of depression on emotional well-being.

Massage therapy provides a holistic treatment for depression. Addressing the health of both the mind and body is a natural and effective way to reduce the effects of depression. Massage provides a relaxing environment that enhances the wellbeing of the individual and provides symptom relief from the physical and emotional impact of depression.

Treating Depression with Aromatherapy Massage

Chronic pain is an invisible malady that severely impairs the quality of life of billions of people around the world. It is a condition that affects both the physical and mental health of an individual and it is difficult to treat. Chronic pain is a complex disease with multiple sources and manifestations, and rarely does one treatment alone provide an individual complete relief. Invasive procedures are often recommended prematurely and have the potential of causing unnecessary harm to the individual. Research suggests that treatment plans should begin with non-invasive therapies that address the wellbeing of the whole individual as opposed to constantly seeking to relieve a specific cause of pain.

Massage provides a safe and natural addition to any chronic pain management treatment plan. At InstantCalmer in Hull, your therapist will use a variety of techniques to provide pain and stress relief. There are many styles of massage, allowing a tailored treatment plan to be created.  Each approach provides a relaxing therapy focused on treating the entire body system in addition to targeting pain in a specific area. Massage therapy uses the soft tissue of the entire body to provide a holistic approach to treatment for chronic pain.

In addition to the physical benefit, massage promotes an individual’s ability to cope with pain. Endorphins released during massages raises the pain threshold of the patient while promoting a feeling of wellbeing. Massage also relieves stress and builds self-awareness enhancing the overall health of individuals. Regular massage therapy familiarises individuals with their body so they can better understand their chronic pain. Research has also shown that the human touch provided during traditional massage techniques has a therapeutic benefit further enhancing the holistic approach necessary for adequate chronic pain management.

Helping to Manage Pain with Aromatherapy Massage

InstantCalmer Aromatherapy Massage (Hull, UK) provides holistic massage treatments healing the mind and the body. Massage promotes stress and pain relief, whilst essential oils stimulate the body’s natural immunity through skin absorption and scent.

By using specific essential oils InstantCalmer can tailor the therapeutic benefits to the mind and body. Massage with essential oils provides many holistic benefits: naturally increasing oxygen circulation, easing muscle pain, lifting emotions and lowering fatigue. A raise in levels of endorphins created by aromatherapy massage establishes wellbeing and mild sense of euphoria!

Aromatherapy massage allows essential oils to be absorbed into the skin and blood stream by being applied where they are needed the most. Massage with essential oils provides the benefit of topical application with the stress and pain reducing benefits of a massage.

Topical application allows essential oils to easily penetrate the skin to pass into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues. Massage with essential oils targets specific areas to enhance wellness.  As a qualified aromatherapist (certified by the International federation of Professional Aromatherapists) Beccy will develop a special blend of essential oils tailored to you requirements.

Massage with essential oils provides benefits from the inhalation of scent. Inhalation provides a method for scents to pass the olfactory nerves in the nose en route to the Limbic System, the sections of the brain responsible for mood, memory and learning. Stimulating the Limbic System releases endorphins and neurotransmitters resulting in feelings of happines and reduced stress.

Not only do essential oils enhance the therapeutic benefits of massage, they further enhance natural immunity to provide a holistic approach to treatment. A massage with essential oils can target specific concerns whilst providing holistic benefits, promoting physical and emotional wellness.

Aromatherapy can help to balance heart rate, control hunger and reduce stress all thanks to its inter-relationship with the Limbic System.

The Benefits of Massage with Essential Oils