Friday, July 22, 2016

Boost Your Clients’ Immune System during a Massage

As a licensed massage therapist I like to pack as many helpful healthful benefits into every massage session I do.  The little extras keep clients coming back for more and I feel good knowing that I did my best! 

Here’s our version of the Immuno Massage routine we do at Balance Spa.  It helps to bolster our clients’ immune system while they’re receiving a Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage.  We recommend this massage to clients who are feeling run down or feel like they’re coming down with something.  Of course, we would not do a massage when a client is actively sick with flu or a cold.

Below is a quick list of what you will need (other than your normal massage supplies):
  • Immune Boosting Essential Oil Blend (recipe provide further down)
  • Castor Oil (about 1 oz)
  • Heating Pad (any kind of heating pack that provides a gentle warmth)
  • Muslin cloth (or any thin cloth) large enough to cover the back
The immune boosting extras can be incorporated into just about any style of Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage with very little extra effort.  Also, the cost of the supplies is minimal since you use very little product per treatment.  I recommend doing your own research on the oils and castor oil so that you can clearly explain to your client how it will benefit them. 

Below is how I incorporate it into my massage, however, it can be adjusted to fit your flow.  Ideally the castor oil hot pack is done on the stomach but we’ve found that not all clients are up for that so we do it on the lower back and back. 

Prior to doing the Immune Boosting treatment, ensure that your client is not allergic to any of the products you are going to be using on them.  Also, inform them what you will be doing and how it is beneficial to them.  You definitely want to have their consent but also for them to know that they will be receiving more than just a massage from you.

Place two drops of Immune Boosting Essential Oil Blend on the sheet below the clients face.  Ensure their face does not come into contact with the oil.  The idea is just for them to take in some of the aroma of the essential oils.
  • I usually start the client in a prone position.  Before beginning the massage, I apply a small amount (1/2 ounce) of castor oil with about 5 drops of the Immune Boosting Essential Oil Blend and apply to their back.
  • Cover their back with the thin cloth and place the hot pack over that.  If you only have a small hot pack, place it over the lower back then re-cover with sheet/blanket.
  • Leave the hot pack on for 10 – 15 minutes.  During this time I will work on their legs.
  • Place 5 drops of peppermint essential oil on the bottoms of each foot.  Remove the hot pack from the back and place on the bottoms of the feet and recover with blanket/sheet.
  • Massage the back and then continue with your Swedish or Deep Tissue massage routine.
  • At the end of the massage, place a few drops of the Immune Boosting Essential Oil Blend on your hands, rub them together and ask your client to take two deep breaths as you hold your hands slightly above their nose.
This is our blend for the Immune Boosting Essential Oils.  It is based on the “four thieves” blend, of which there are many recipes available.  You can adjust quantities and blend to your own preferences.

1 tbs. Clove Essential Oil
1 tbs. Lemon Essential Oil
2 ½ tsp. Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
2 tsp. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
2 tsp. Rosemary Essential Oil

Store away from and sunlight. Preferably in a cool location. Keep out of reach of children.

1 Teaspoon = 4.9 Milliliters = 0.166667oz
1 Tablespoon – 14.7 Milliliters = 0.5oz

DO NOT USE PLASTIC CONTAINERS TO MIX OR POUR ESSENTIAL OILS.  THE PLASTIC WILL MELT.

Check out our blog to read more about the benefits of these individual essential oils and also how castor oil helps to improve our immune system. 

We hope you enjoy this add on to your massage and also benefit from the healing properties of these amazing essential oils!