Oxford Aromatherapy

Frequently Asked Questions

I am a reasonable healthy, active person without physical problems, why would I consider getting therapeutic massage ? 

1. It feels wonderful !
2. To be even healthier,  you can feel better than you ever knew was possible.
3. To increase your body awareness and sensitivity.
4. To relieve everyday type stress as well as more extreme stress from key times of pressure or crisis.
5. To become calmer, more centered, and thus more creative.
6. To think more clearly and to quiet mental static; to be in relaxed alertness.
7. To nourish your muscles, and your whole self.
8. To help prevent illness and improve life quality.

I've decided to get a massage session. How do I find and choose a good massage therapist ? - It's essential that you trust the person who will be touching you. The therapist must have received professional training. In addition, personal referrals are recommended. If you're under the treatment of another health care provider, ask them for a referral and check with them to ensure that Aromatherapy will be beneficial and if in doubt check with your GP. It is very rare that a medical condition will prevent Aromatherapy treatment.  When you call,. ask what happens and get explanations of any you don't understand.

Personality fit  and trust is important. .Don't be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns.

What can I expect when I go in the first time? - Before I start  your first massage, I will ask about your reasons for getting a massage, your current physical condition, medical history, lifestyle and stress level, any areas of pain, etc.  During this consultation we will agree the areas to be massaged.  Massage is best achieved when completely undressed and many people are quite happy to undress completely while some prefer to keep their underwear on. For ladies, it is necessary to remove their bra when on their front for back massage. You will be covered by towels and only the area being treated will be uncovered. If you have any concerns you must say so at the consultation. In practice, once the massage starts your inhibitions usually are forgotten.

You may undress in private  and drape yourself with a towel or dressing gown ; then you'll lie down on a comfortably padded massage table. If in your home undress in another room and wear a dressing gown. Only the part of your body being worked will be uncovered, and your modesty is respected.

You must have a peaceful and comfortable environment for the massage. I will gently establish a connection with you, such as breathing in rhythm with you for a few moments before beginning the first strokes.

For the period of time agreed upon you'll have the unique experience of having all your our muscles kneaded and stroked in a full-body massage, or only in specific areas in case of a session oriented to localised injury, pain or tightness, or sports readiness.

Where should the Aromatherapy take place? - If in your home, it should be in a quiet warm room, a lounge or bedroom are fine. I will bring a portable massage table and towels except for free sessions when I ask you to provide towels. It is good to have quiet soothing music from a radio (such as Classic FM) or your favourite CD. It is essential to reduce background noise and  not to be disturbed, especially by the telephone.   If at Horton cum Studley, I use a lounge and in winter in front of a log fire. 

How long will it take? - At the first session I discuss what you wish to achieve and record any contra indications to ensure safety.  This information is completely confidential. The actual massage lasts at least an hour, and I have taken up to two hours when the customer is particularly stressed.

What if I am unhappy or uncomfortable about the massage during the session? - At the start I explain that you are to say immediately if you are not comfortable at any stage of the massage.  It is rare that this happens but it massage may be too hard or in some cases not hard enough.  If you are unhappy just say stop.  The session is for your benefit so you must be comfortable to enjoy it. 

How are the essential oils chosen? - At the consultation we discuss your problems (if any) and what you wish to achieve.  As a result the oils are chosen and mixed ensuring that contra indications are taken into account.

What happens at the end? - I will tell you when the session is finished. You will probably be feeling very sleepy and relaxed so you will be given the opportunity to relax for a few minutes before dressing.  We then have a short consultation to see if the aims have been achieved and any points noted to take into account for the next session. You should drink plenty of water afterwards and avoid alcohol or caffeine. You should wait for about four hours to allow the oils to be absorbed before showering or bathing.  

Who can benefit from massage? - Young and old, professionals, athletes, performers, nurses, councillors, artists etc.  All except those with medical contra-indications 

When would massage NOT be recommended? - With certain circulatory ailments, especially phlebitis / thrombosis, as well as: high fevers, infectious diseases, cancer (some types), cardiac problems, inflamed or infected injuries, areas of haemorrhage or heavy tissue damage, recent fractures or sprains. Also massage during early pregnancy is only recommended using safe oils such as tangerine.

Do I have any responsibilities during the massage ?

1. To give your therapist accurate health information.

2. To report discomfort of any kind, whether from your our body, room temperature, volume of music, or other distractions.

3. Just fully relax and let the aromatherapist move your limbs during the session.  Also let the aromatherapist lift up your head during neck massage - relax.

Why do so many people equate massage with the "seamy side" of life? - The word massage has been used as a euphemism and front for illicit sexual activity. Aromatherapy has no connection whatsoever with such activity . 


How often should I have Aromatherapy? - There is no set period. However it takes about five sessions before some treatments are fully realised and more sessions if cellulite, stretch marks or scarring is to be reduced.  About twice a month is the usual practical number of sessions for most people.

"Massage has its greatest benefits over time, and most doctors and therapists say the more often you get a massage, the better you feel" 

The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative. From one session to the next, you are able to relax more and more as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are released. These changes are readily felt in your day-to-day life, as well.

Can I give massage to someone else for a gift ? - Absolutely ! I supply gift certificates. It's a wonderful gift that shows your friends, family members and business associates you really care.

If I get a massage for pain or injury, will insurance cover it ? - If a GP or hospital  prescribes it, insurance will sometimes cover it. It depends on the company and the policy. You must check with your insurance company before the session.

With all its healthy benefits, why isn't massage used more by doctors or in hospitals? - Doctors are beginning to proscribe Aromatherapy for patients and some doctors in training are now receiving Aromatherapy training. In Germany , every major hospital has a Massage Therapy department and restorative therapy is given in spas. Massage is also found in the medical setting in countries such as India, Japan and China.

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