Massage & Aromatherapy | Pregnancy Massage

Finding out that you are pregnant can bring on a whole range of mixed emotions from euphoria to instant panic. No matter how much your baby is wanted it is going to create changes not only to your life, but also to your body.

Your body will go through many changes - your skin, your hair, digestive system, suffering from morning sickness and nausea and becoming weighted down in the last few months. Your skin produces more sebum, which may cause it to become greasy and flaky. Hair can become lank and lifeless. However it's not all bad, your skin may glow and your hair may the thickest and loveliest that it has ever been.

A great many women experience some lower back pain as their pregnancy advances. This is due not only to the increasing weight of the baby, but to the changing shape of their own bodies and the way this increases the lower curve of the spine. Gentle exercises could prove beneficial, however massage with essential oils will give tremendous relief from pain and help to tone the muscles that are carrying the increased load. Obviously, as the baby grows, it will not be possible for the mother to lie on her stomach, however other positions are available that provide an opportunity for complete massage.

Aromatherapy massage can be extremely beneficial during pregnancy, especially during the last few months. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified aromatherapist when wishing to use essential oils during pregnancy, as there are several oils that are unsuitable. For most women, aromatherapy can be used safely and effectively after the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, however if this is your first pregnancy, or if you have had any problems during previous pregnancies, your aromatherapist may ask you to check with your midwife or doctor before treatment. Babies whose mothers have received regular massage throughout their pregnancies are generally very peaceful when they are born.

The following recipes are safe, enjoyable and easy enough to blend at home, and will certainly make a difference in the way you feel. Combine these remedies with activities that you enjoy, such as walking, massage, reading etc. Not only will your baby benefit from your uplifted spirits, but daddy will too !!!

Essential oils are extremely concentrated. They need to be diluted before use. A common dilution for aromatherapy blends during pregnancy is 1-2%, which equals to 4 drops essential oils to 20 mls carrier oils. For massage, add each blend below to 20 mls of grapeseed base oil. For problems such as backaches, indigestion or general aggravation, here is a marvellous remedy which can be massaged into your back by a partner or friend on a regular basis which will alleviate physical symptoms as well as uplifting your spirit. Lavender : 2 drops Geranium : 1 drop Roman chamomile : 1 drop 

Relaxation blend Lavender : 2 drops Neroli : 2 drops 

Stretch marks Lavender : 2 rops Neroli or mandarin : 2 drops As well as receiving regular treatments from the therapist, mothers should also apply these massage oils onto her tummy from 4 months onward to help prevent/reduce stretch marks. 

Sweet dreams Orange : 1 drop Lavender : 1 drop Put a drop of each essential oil onto a handkerchief or cotton ball and place it between your pillow and pillow case. If you like orange, you will also like bergamot, mandarin, tangerine or neroli. If you are feeling nausea Peppermint ; 2 drops Ginger ; 2 drops Add these in a bowl of hot water or vaporiser or simply put a drop of each onto your pillow. 

Aromatherapy baths can be enjoyable right through the pregnancy, and in fact, can be one of the mother's greatest luxuries in the form of relaxation. The above blend can be used safely. Add any of the above blends in a teaspoon of jojoba oil before adding them to the bath water. Mix well before getting in.