The following constitutes only a very basic guide to massage movements and is no substitute for a compressive aroma-massage course. However, massage can be used to great benefit at home using the following simple movements and suggestion.

Effleurage

This is the most often used therapy movement, and constitutes a simple, gentle stroking movements. Deep pressure should never be used by an untrained person. The strokes may be long or short, gentle or firm. This stroke promotes muscle relaxation and soothes the nerve endings.

Petrissage

In petrissage, the flesh is gently rolled between the thumbs and fingers in a movement not unlike kneading dough. This techniques is best used on the back and on fatty areas. The ideas is to stimulate the circulation and lymphatic flow and thereby increase the rate of toxin expulsion.

Head Massage

Put a little of the essential oil on the fingertips and massage in circular movements over the scalp and temples.

Neck Massage

Neck massage should be carried out with the patient sitting on a chair with some support in front. Working around the base of the neck and scalp, use small upward and outward circular movements. Move slowly up, down and around the sides of the neck, alternating firm and gentle movements.

Shoulder Massage

Using gentle anticlockwise effleurage movements, stroke firmly from the shoulders to the neck.

Arm Massage

Use effleurage and petrissage movements upwards in the direction of the armpit, concentrating on muscular and fatty areas. Avoid bony areas.

Back Massage

Stroke all the way from the lumbar to the shoulders, move the hands outwards across the shoulders and return slowly down the outer area of the back. Repeat this movement to induce deep relaxation.

Leg Massage

Always massage the legs in an upward direction. avoid bony area, and never massage varicose veins.

Feet Massage

Work in the direction of toe to heel, using the fingers uppermost and the thumb under the foot.

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