A Holistic Approach in Aromatherapy
Treatment with aromatherapy
The principle behind allopathic, or orthodox, medicine is that
illness is seen as something to be treated by suppression of the
symptoms, often using quite harsh, synthetic drugs. This is in stark
contrast to the holistic approach used in aromatherapy, which aims to
treat the whole person: mind, body and soul (or spirit).
Symptoms of illness are seen as an imbalance of energies, and
treatment with essential oils works in conjunction with the body
attempting to heal itself.
This holistic framework involves the aromatherapist doing far more
than simply choosing essential oils from the narrow perspective of
treating symptoms. The essential oils themselves are complex, with many
different qualities. So part of the skill of the therapist lies in
selecting the right combination of essential oils to help the client
regain mental, physical and spiritual health and balance.
Aromatherapy Treatment
A full aromatherapy treatment involves far more than simply giving a
massage. The therapist will also make suggestions to assist the client
to help himself or herself. Advice on lifestyle issues, diet, exercise
and so on all form part of an holistic aromatherapy session.
For example, if a client presents with symptoms of insomnia, instead
of simply giving a panacea (like a doctor prescribing sleeping pills),
the therapist will treat the client holistically. This includes giving
advice on reducing caffeine intake, checking whether the client's
bedroom is sufficiently dark and quiet to promote sleep, and asking if
there is some emotional problem troubling the client - all before
selecting the essential oils for the aromatherapy treatment.
In this way, the holistic approach seeks to address the causes of the
disease, and not simply suppress the symptoms. By removing the causes,
the desired effect of health and wellbeing is brought about as naturally
as possible. Of course there are times when allopathic medicine is
invaluable and life-saving. A truly holistic approach to health care
means using all medical systems, and complementary therapies as and when
they are appropriate.

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