What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a natural and therapeutic treatment method that uses essential oils to improve both physical and mental health. By harnessing the power of scents, aromatherapy can relieve stress, improve sleep, increase energy and even strengthen the immune system. In this blog, we will go over what aromatherapy is, how it works and why you should consider including it in your sauna experience.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils extracted from plants, flowers, fruits, trees, and herbs. These oils contain natural chemical compounds that can affect the body's physical, emotional, and mental states. Aromatherapy is used in a variety of ways, but the most popular method is to inhale the scents through steam or direct contact with the skin to achieve specific therapeutic effects.

Essential oils are used to support the body's self-healing ability and improve well-being. Aromatherapy can be used to treat various health problems, relieve pain, increase relaxation, and even create a more balanced and harmonious state of mind.

How does Aromatherapy work?

Essential oils can be applied in several different ways: by inhalation, massage or via steam in, for example, a sauna. When we inhale the scent of essential oils, the brain and body's nervous system are triggered to produce different physiological responses. For example, some scents can help relieve anxiety and stress, while others can have energizing effects.

• Inhalation: When you inhale essential oils, they quickly reach your limbic system (the emotional center of the brain), providing immediate effects on mood and well-being.

• Massage: Essential oils can be mixed with carrier oils and massaged into the skin. By penetrating the skin, the oils reach the bloodstream and can stimulate the body to heal itself.

• Sauna: One of the most effective ways to use aromatherapy is in a sauna. The heat allows the scents to be released quickly, and the combined effect of the steam and essential oils can provide an extremely relaxing and therapeutic experience.

Benefits of Aromatherapy

1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
   One of the most well-known benefits of aromatherapy is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and bergamot are known for their calming properties, making them perfect for relaxation both at home and in the sauna.

2. Improves Sleep Quality
   Aromatherapy is often used to help people with sleep problems. The scents of lavender and ylang-ylang have been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Using essential oils before bed can create a more relaxed state of mind and prepare the body for a good night's sleep.

3. Increases Energy and Mental Clarity
   Some essential oils, such as peppermint, lemon, and rosemary, have refreshing and energizing effects. These oils stimulate the mind and can help improve focus and concentration, making them perfect for starting the day or for providing extra energy during the workday.

4. Relieves Pain and Muscle Tension
   Aromatherapy can be used to relieve pain and muscle tension. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help reduce muscle aches, headaches, and other pains.

5. Strengthens the immune system
   Some essential oils, such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and oregano, have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. These oils can help boost the immune system and fight colds and infections, making aromatherapy a great addition to staying healthy.

Aromatherapy in the Sauna – For a Deeper Experience

One of the best ways to experience aromatherapy is in a sauna. When you add essential oils to the sauna, the scents are quickly released into the warm air, affecting the body and mind in a powerful way. The combination of heat and essential oils enhances the effects of both, creating a more intense and therapeutic experience.

• Lavender: Helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation. Perfect for winding down after a long day.

• Peppermint: Refreshing and energizing, good for increasing focus and clarity.

• Eucalyptus: To open the airways and provide a feeling of freshness and renewal.

• Lemon: Clears the mind and provides energy, while helping to lift the mood.

Book Sauna with Aromatherapy in Stockholm

If you want to experience aromatherapy in a sauna and get the most out of its benefits, book a session at The Sacred Sauna in Stockholm. We offer an exclusive sauna experience where you can enjoy both heat and aromatherapy to maximize your health and well-being.