How to Use Sweet Almond Oil in Massage Therapy

Sweet almond oil is an excellent carrier oil to mix with essential oils, especially if you are performing massage therapy on a person with sensitive or oily skin. Oil enhances a massage by entering the skin and nose. Skin and hair follicles easily absorb oil, which then enters the blood stream. Essential oils help oxygen bring nutrients to tissues and help the body dispose of harmful toxins. Almond oil also contains vitamin D, which helps protect the skin. Here are the steps for mixing sweet almond oil with rosemary and lavender oil to soothe sore muscles during massage therapy.

Things You'll Need

• Massage chair or yoga mat Candles Sweet almond oil Glass bowl or dish Rosemary oil Lavender oil Toothpick Saucepan 1 cup water

Instructions

The Steps

1. 

   Prepare the massage area by setting up a comfortable place for the person you are performing massage therapy on. Dim the lights, light candles and provide a flat, cushioned surface with a massage chair or yoga mat.

2. 

   Clean and dry your utensils before use. Measure out 2 tsp. of sweet almond oil and pour it into a glass dish or bowl.

3. 

   Add two drops of rosemary oil and three drops of lavender oil to the sweet almond oil. Use your toothpick to mix the oils together.

4. 

   Heat the water in a pot on the stove until it boils. Remove the pan from the heat and set the glass dish in the hot water until the oil warms, for about five minutes.

5. 

   Test the heat of the oil before using. Put half a teaspoon in your palm and rub your hands together.

6. 

   Fold a towel over the lower half of the person's body. Place one hand at the base of the spine and one at the top of the spine to begin.

7. 

   Glide the oil gently over the neck and shoulders. Make sure your hands are relaxed so they flow with the contours of the person's body. Continue in this manner over the legs and arms.

8. Begin your massage therapy session. When done with the back, apply the oil to the front of the body using the same flowing movements and continue massaging.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use sweet almond oil if you or the person you are massaging is allergic to nuts. Keep oil from sensitive areas like the eyes.

References

• The Illustrated Guide to Massage and Aromatherapy; Catherine Stuart; 2006.
• Secrets of Hot Stone and Aromatherapy Massage: An Essential Guide for Health and Pleasure; Margie Hare; 2005.