We offer Aromatherapy to clients as part of the Centre's holistic approach to care.
All Aromatherapists are fully qualified members of a Professional Body.

What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the systematic use of essential oils in treatments to improve physical and emotional well-being.
Many plant species contain essential oils, highly fragrant and flammable essences, which evaporate quickly and which are extracted from plants by distillation.
Aromatherpists in the UK are trained to use essential oils topically and through inhalation. Essential oils are applied in a variety of ways, which include massage, vapourisers, baths, creams and lotions.
The most widely used medium for application is massage and indeed this is the preferred method at the Olive Tree.
The oils are diluted by a carrier vegetable based oil, before they are applied to the skin, they are then passed into the blood-stream

How can aromatherapy help?
Essential oils, especially during massage, can have a positive and harmonising effect on the body and the mind. Depending on their chemical constituents, oils can be uplifting, stimulating, calming or sedative. It is believed that they also have antiviral, bacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Aromatherapy can:

• Aid Relaxation
• Reduce stress
• Ease muscular aches and pains, digestive problems, anxiety and insomnia
• Enhance feelings of well-being

How will it make me feel?
During your therapy you can expect to feel relaxed, comfortable and supported physically and emotionally.
Your treatment will last approximately 40 minutes. Afterwards you may feel tired and it is advisable to rest for a short while at the centre before travelling home.
Your therapist will also advise you to drink plenty of water.

How many sessions can I have?
Prior to using the complimentary therapies and treatments at the Olive Tree, you will meet with the Centre Manager to discuss the different therapies on offer and agree those which would best support your needs.
Members are entitled to 4 free sessions of any therapy they choose or a combination of therapies.
Following this we would request that circumstances allowing, members make a minimum donation of £5.00 per session

Where will the therapy take place?
All therapy sessions take place in our dedicated therapy room at the centre.
We have an electric couch which can be lowered to assist those with mobility difficulties.
It can also be adjusted to a sitting or semi sitting position for those who prefer not to lie flat. Please discuss this with your therapist.

How do I book a therapy session?
All sessions are booked through the manager or an appointed volunteer.
You can book in person, by telephone or by e-mail.