As we all know, aromatherapy has been around for centuries and is a commonly used therapy for many, especially women. However, it may seem unusual, especially in Western Civilization to hear of men using aromatherapy.
It is rather funny that, as I myself, as an Aromatherapist, do treat a lot of men and they love it! I thought a lot about this and realised that despite my male clients, aromatherapy is still promoted very much towards women, or as a more feminine therapy.
Having said that, if you ask most guys what they know of Aromatherapy, you may well still receive a vacant stare in return as they draw blanks as to what you are even talking about. Those who have already experienced it though will speak proudly of how it helps and I have had many friends of friends come through my male client’s recommendations.
The truth is that Aromatherapy has many properties that will benefit men in today’s society. In the modern world, men must deal with different types of stress than they did in hunter-gatherer tribal times. This isn’t to say, however, that the amount of stress is not the same, it’s just a different type.
The way I see it, the stress in our present-day is more of a mental fight. I am able to reflect on numerous major benefits, however, below I am going to let you in on my male client’s comments and experiences, and the major benefits that have taken place in their lives as a result of Aromatherapy. (with their permission of course).
Within the scope of this article, we will explore how Aromatherapy benefits men in modern society.
If there are any of you who do not know what Aromatherapy really is, it might be a good idea to start at the beginning, especially if you are a male reader wanting to find out how this can help you.
As it turns out, modern Aromatherapy was actually identified by a Frenchman named Rene Maurice Gattefosse in the 1920s. So, ladies we must be thankful to our lovely male counterpart for that. I know I am:)
Since Mr. Gattefosse was prone to burns in his lab, due to his own personal experience, he became somewhat of an expert on burns. During a fright, Mr. Gattefosse accidentally set his arm on fire and doused the fire with lavender oil.
As a result, Gattefosse reported immediate pain relief and an incredibly rapid recovery process with minimal scarring. Comparing his recent burns to the previous ones, he knew he had discovered something. As a result of the incident, Gattefosse dedicated himself to the study of Aromatherapy.
So there you go guys, nothing to be intimidated about when it comes to men’s aromatherapy.
One client states ” It has been most helpful in coping with the high levels of stress in modern life that I have experienced in my life. Until I tried Basil Oil, I was at the worst of my depression. The smell of Basil Oil is necessary to fully understand its properties. Basil oil gives me a fresh feeling at the end of the day.”
“I have more quality time with my children and strangely, I am able to let go of the stress I have had during the day. As a result, I am able to think clearly about positive aspects of life and bring myself to a pleasant place. Lemon oil has also worked for me, but I prefer Basil oil. You might want to give both a try”.
Amazing eh? When thinking about Aromatherapy for men, think about how it can help during sickness. Let’s face it most men turn to kittens when a cold strikes. As a client once stated to me, ”Aromatherapy can restore you to the ‘testosterone-injected beefcake’ you once felt you were”. Ok, so I smiled, but if it works for them, who am I to say otherwise. I think it’s amazing.
Here’s another client. He states:
”Let me introduce you to my two new friends, Eucalyptus oil and mint. If I’m suffering from a cold or flu, this little combo is a real knockout. I suggested to my mates that they try it out the next time they get sick. Also, another amazing essential oil I found is Yarrow oil, it can also get rid of most cold and flu symptoms. It is obvious that this will only treat the symptoms, not the cause, but once you are feeling better, it should be enough to keep you feeling positive”.
I know what you’re thinking, as a Naturopath, Aromatherapist, I must have just the best male clients, and I taught them well:) Indeed I have:)
Let’s continue on.
Men can also benefit from aromatherapy in the case of skin burns. As we all know, guys are prone to getting, cuts, scrapes, and burns. A nasty work-related scrape or burn on the leg can be a real downer for the weekend, especially when you had planned a footy match with your pals.
There is nothing fun about getting burns on your skin, but luckily, as mentioned previously, lavender oil is a great way to relieve them.
And another such client stated:
”When I burnt my leg at work, I thought that was it and I couldn’t play soccer, but after a few days applying lavender, it was so much better, that I was able to go back the next weekend. It’s amazing stuff. – I carry it with me now at work.”
He also reported ”I also tried Bergamot for cold sores combined with Eucalyptus oil and it provides amazing relief. Thank you”.
In the future, aromatherapy for men is more likely to become commonplace than it is today. My partner also uses various oils and diffuses them, or uses them through inhalation, or in massages. I know from personal experience that it had a tremendous effect on my relationship at home after a stressful day. We are both calmer.
Whenever he’s sick, he’s less miserable, and if by chance he gets minor damages when out working, or playing sports, he’s covered there as well.
Overall, aromatherapy can be very beneficial to men. If you are having trouble overcoming stereotypes, keep in mind that it is making your life easier. When it comes to aromatherapy, there are a few risks, and you’ll need to become informed about the techniques involved to achieve your desired results.
But don’t be shy gents, let’s get you using aromatherapy and booking in your appointments to learn how this amazing, and tried and tested therapy can help you, and your family!
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