#and massage techniques that have lasted the millennia.

[siamivoryspa]

Thai-style spa services

Thailand has been a consistent winner of several spa awards for many years. Thailand's spa sector appears to be in good condition, evolving with the changing needs of spa clients to a focus not far from the old goal of traditional Thai massage and herbal treatment techniques. Despite the necessity to integrate Western principles, the Thai spa industry's competitive advantage is its historic heritage: the rituals, treatments, and massage techniques that have lasted the millennia.

It has an authenticity that spas throughout the world strive to emulate, and "Thainess" has also become a key marketing factor for Thai spas. It is critical to understand why Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style have won numerous accolades and surprised the globe!

Thainess refers to both the therapists and the cultural characteristics that have made Thailand the spa capital of the Asia-Pacific region and a must-have component for spas worldwide. While Thainess might mean different things to different individuals, it appears to encompass old therapeutic procedures, folk wisdom in its ceremonies, and, probably most importantly, graciousness when applied to Thai therapists.

Maintaining wellbeing through a better balance of the body, mind, and spirit, as well as with the environment, has become a fundamental principle for Thailand's award-winning spas and new initiatives. Thailand is increasingly positioned as a medical destination offering both orthodox and alternative treatments.

Thailand, known as the "Land of Healthy Smiles," offers its health and beauty-conscious visitors the wonders of pampering and holistic spa treatments for the body, mind, and spirit. The discovery of health and wellness includes a comprehensive selection of world-renowned day spas, destination spas, hotel/resort spas, and medical spas.

Spa treatments in Thai style can help you connect with your inner self in a variety of locations across the country. A Thai spa is unquestionably a worthwhile treat that gives the best spa experience. Without a doubt, this causes discerning tourists and receivers to fall in love with Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style!

Thailand is a world-class spa destination because of its delicate blend of cultural heritages and diversities. Thai spas, with a focus on health and beauty, incorporate methods of relaxation and health enhancement, both physically and spiritually.

They bloom in Bangkok and key tourist cities around the country. The Thai spa experience incorporates indigenous resources, unique traditions, and local wisdom that have been passed down through the generations. Recognizing potential market niches for spa business, spa operators look to this historic treasure trove to produce and showcase the greatest Thai style spas to ensure worldwide spa recipients a lasting spa expectation.

In truth, Thailand's spa treatments differ greatly from those provided at top spa facilities across the world because the spa theory there has been embraced and adapted into traditional Thai style. The globe has been impressed by an imported spa recipe with a distinctive Thai twist! Spa facilities in Thailand also are of premium and exceptional value for money.

 A tropical sanctuary with natural and cultural diversity, Thailand is regarded one of the world's most recognised holiday resorts. This is a great plus that helps strengthen the country's basic strength as an eternal spa paradise. Additionally, top-notch spa supplies give foreign spa visitors a fresh perspective and a sense of familiarity.

Thai spas give visitors the chance to experience several aspects of traditional Thai culture. Thai spa experiences stand out because the staff members are innately friendly and service-oriented. The kindheartedness and gentleness of the Thai people compliment gracious hospitality and high-quality service, adding to the distinctive Thai touch's global recognition.

The Theravada Buddhist tradition strongly promotes kindness, compassion, and providing solace to others, and these virtues are deeply ingrained in daily life. The gesture is also logical and sincere. Additionally, the majority of spa facilities are built with distinctively Thai features that are highly regarded among foreign visitors.

The Land of Healthy Smiles, which offers a wide range of spa services, has also developed a wide range of retreats, alternative therapies, one-on-one consultations, and life coaching. Traditional Thai, Swedish, Javanese, and Sports massages, foot reflexology, aromatherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, hydrotherapy, skincare services including body wraps and facial scrubs, treatments for the face, skin, and hair, herbal steams, and floral baths are all frequent offerings at Thai spas.

Along with healthy nutrition and detoxifying, the Thai spa experience also includes body and mind exercises like yoga, tai chi, pilates, stress management, holistic wellbeing, and spa cuisine. Thai spas are well-known throughout the world thanks to its holistic therapies. The therapeutic properties of Thai herbs and plants that have been particularly designed to rebalance, repair, and revitalise the body, mind, and spirit are the foundation of many healing methods, holistic treatments, and wellbeing programmes.

[chokhidhanidesertcamp]

Discovering the Magic of Desert Camps: Activities and Experiences

When it comes to exploring the vast and captivating Thar Desert, there's no better way to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this arid landscape than by staying at a desert camp. These unique accommodations offer a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, allowing you to experience the desert in a way that traditional hotels simply cannot match.

One of the best camp in Jaisalmer is the Suryagarh, a luxurious retreat that seamlessly combines modern amenities with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Located just a short drive from the city, Suryagarh offers a range of activities and experiences that showcase the best of the desert region.

Desert Safari Jaisalmer

No visit to the desert would be complete without embarking on a desert safari. At Suryagarh, guests can choose from a variety of safari options, each tailored to suit their interests and preferences. One of the most popular choices is the camel safari, where you'll ride atop these majestic "ships of the desert" as you traverse the undulating dunes and take in the breathtaking vistas that stretch out before you.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the camp also offers dune bashing, a thrilling activity that involves driving over the dunes in specially equipped vehicles. As you race across the sand, you'll feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins and the wind whipping through your hair, creating an unforgettable memory that will stay with you long after your trip has ended.

Cultural Immersion

In addition to outdoor adventures, desert camps like Suryagarh also offer a range of cultural experiences that allow you to delve deeper into the rich heritage of the region. One such activity is a visit to a local village, where you'll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their traditional way of life.

You might also have the chance to participate in a cooking demonstration, where you'll learn how to prepare authentic Rajasthani dishes using age-old recipes and techniques. From the fragrant spices to the intricate flavors, this experience will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the culinary traditions of the desert.

Stargazing and Campfires

As the sun dips below the horizon and the desert cools, desert camps come alive with a different kind of magic. Gather around the crackling campfire and listen to the stories and legends of the region, told by the camp's knowledgeable staff. As the flames dance and flicker, you'll feel a sense of connection to the land and the people who have called it home for centuries.

But the real treat comes when you look up at the night sky. Far from the light pollution of the city, the desert offers an unparalleled view of the stars. Gaze in wonder at the Milky Way as it stretches across the inky blackness, and spot the constellations that have guided travelers through the desert for millennia. It's a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that will leave you feeling small and insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe.

Wellness and Relaxation

While desert camps are known for their adventure and cultural offerings, they also provide ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Many camps, like Suryagarh, offer spa treatments that incorporate traditional Ayurvedic techniques and locally sourced ingredients.

Indulge in a soothing massage using aromatic oils, or try a body scrub that exfoliates and nourishes your skin. You might also have the chance to participate in a yoga session, where you'll stretch and breathe in the fresh desert air and find a sense of inner peace amidst the tranquility of the dunes.

Conclusion

Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a chance to unwind and reconnect with nature, a stay at a desert camp in Jaisalmer is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. From the thrill of a desert safari jaisalmer to the serenity of stargazing under the night sky, these unique accommodations offer a range of activities and experiences that showcase the best of the Thar Desert.

[lunasdayspa]

8 Day Spa Treatments to add to your Bucket List

Are you looking for some ‘nirvana’ moments to break away from your usual life full of hard work and no attention for the self? This summer, when the sun is beaming high, make sure to pamper yourself with the right dose of self-care, skin treatments and body massages that will awaken your senses, re-energize your soul and pump vigor into your body. Plus, while you’re at it, don’t forget to recommend some of the trending and best day spa treatments to your near and dear ones.

Check out the trending day spas in the U.S., that will re-energize you and make you crave for a little ‘me-time’ this season. First, let’s understand what popular day spa services entail.  

There are a variety of day spa services available today. From enriching your lives with nourishment, enhancing overall health and beauty, to relaxing massages and facials, the benefits of day spas are countless.

According to the International Spa Association, the U.S. has experienced a spike in demand for day spas. In fact, the numbers have nearly doubled in two years (2002-2004) to 8,734. By 2020, there were approximately 21,560 day spas across the country.

If you also want to benefit from a day spa, a great place to start is by exploring the various body treatment packages and skin treatment packages in a day spa near you.

Let's explore some of the most popular day spa treatments below.

8 Popular Day Spa Treatments

When it comes to spa treatments, there are many to choose from. First, let’s focus on the top body treatment services.

Top body treatment services

1.    Full-body Facial

A full-body facial basically entails a facial for the entire body. The primary concept is to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate your entire body, not just your face. Your entire body will feel softer, smoother, and more relaxed as a result of this. For best results, treat yourself to a 60 minute or 90 minute package.

2.   Body Tanning/Bronzing:

Want to add that silky, golden glow to your skin without baking in the sun? A body tanning treatment is a great way to get that bronze, sun-kissed glow you are looking for.

Top Massage Treatments Services

3.   Swedish Massage

Say hello to a renewed, energized YOU with a relaxing Swedish massage. It is one of the most popular types of massages. That’s because it revitalizes the body and boosts general wellness. Percussion, kneading, vibrating, tapping, and rolling are all used in this style of massage. To protect the skin from friction, massage oil or lotion is applied. An average Swedish massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

4.  Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage aids in the treatment of muscle pain and stiffness. However, it can also help you relax mentally. Deep tissue massage was shown to improve chronic low back pain, according to a 2014 study. The average Deep Tissue massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

5.   Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. The practice of aromatherapy has been around for millennia. The aroma molecules in essential oils move directly from the olfactory nerves to the brain when inhaled, affecting the amygdala, the brain's emotional centre. The average Aromatherapy massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

6.   Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic massage, also known as abhyanga, is based on holistic and integrative health principles that were initially discovered 3000 years ago in India. The main goal of this massage treatment services is to promote spiritual fulfilment and relaxation by balancing the doshas in your body. The average Ayurvedic massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

7.   Thai Massage

Thai massage uses a series of techniques that are akin to yogic stretching to work the entire body. Your massage therapist will apply hard pressure to your body using their hands and fingertips. You'll be stretched and twisted into different postures as well. During the massage, you can wear loose, comfortable attire. The average Thai massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

8.  Turkish Massage

Turkish Massage also called Turkish Hamman. The Hammam is an ancient Turkish traditional style of bathing that uses particular procedures to cleanse and exfoliate pollutants from the body in the warmth of the Hammam Room. This involves an all-over scrub with a kese mitt by our Tellak (therapist), followed by a brief foam massage. The average Turkish massage lasts for anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes.

Conclusion

This summer, treat yourself to the best day spa services for rediscovering your inner peace. If you wish to make the most of this endeavor, don’t forget to find the best day spas for that perfect date with self-love!

[irubel88]

tantric massage

Among the core statements of Tantric philosophy is the concept that sexual activities can be more than mere pleasure. Sexual energy may bring numerous rewards apart apparent, if a person has necessary skills and understanding to handle it correctly. For more information on erotic massage london, visit us to know more.

It may unclog the blockages of one's within the body, thus relieving psychophysical signs and symptoms of stress, providing you with more energy and vitality, more powerful health, boost of ideas that has been enhanced thought of arts, elevated personal efficiency and problem-solving abilities, profound insights in to the nature of products, and eventually, the blissful experience with unity with everything else, were personal limitations fade and deep realization of own divine nature happens.

Tantra has numerous techniques which will help a specialist to understand their sexual energy for the advantages of body, spirit and mind. Included in this is tantric massage , which is an essential part of complex Tantric Arts.

For hundreds of years tantric massage would be a technique available solely towards the adepts of Tantra who spent a long time in training. However as occasions change and world becomes one huge global village, ancient secrets understand to wider audiences. And fortunately, tantric massage will come in London now. In the following paragraphs modern, London based experts of Tantric arts are explaining the concepts of tantric massage .

Proper flow of one's within the body ensures smooth flow of existence, positive feelings and seem health. tantric massage , when done properly, helps balance the flow of one's, realign important energy centers and strengthen body's self-regulation system. You won't just feel revitalized (some make use of the word reborn), but you'll also spot the numerous advantages of tantric massage unfolding using the time, particularly if you utilize it regularly.

Sexual energy includes a tremendous power. The entire World was produced was produced by sexual energy, literally. In Hindu mythology The Final Deity has two aspects, men and women, as well as their constant interplay creates everything visible and invisible, in each and every moment. The Divine Creative principle is sexual, in the nature.

And thing about this primordial power, Shakti-Kundalini, resides in everyone. When awakened, it enriches a person's existence with beauty and elegance of divine quality.

Throughout the millennia in puritanical society of Europe these details weren't known, as well as the sexual revolution from the twentieth century introduced sexual freedom, although not sexual knowledge. But now you have to obtain awake and notice the limitless potential of sexual energy and employ it responsibly for that own well-being and happiness, and not simply mindlessly waste it around.

To be the heart of numerous revolutionary beginnings in culture and society, now London is pioneering in getting Tantric philosophy and exercise to everyone. Keen willing and able spiritual seekers who spent years in mastering eastern methods to sexuality proudly bring their understanding towards the visitors and residents of British capital. Several Tantric agencies have been opened up working in london within the last years. One of these is Shakti massages, youthful but promising company who not just offers Tantric therapies, but additionally educates people about Tantric arts.

tantric massage is an ideal - and enjoyable - approach to sexual education. This massage enables you to definitely better understand and explore thorough all of the facets of you sexuality. The large potential of the vital power can be found, drawn on into, and employed for successfully achieving almost any aspiration.

Yet the very fundamental results of tantric massage are highly beneficial, too. Included in this are elevated and finely-tuned physical perception and awareness, amplified sexual satisfaction, better ejaculation control (and resolved ejaculation problems) and much deeper reference to your lover.

But don't forget that at first of all, Tantric rituals serve an objective of self-discovery and private growth. Want to know more about dark tantra? Visit our website today!

For hundreds of years Tantric teachings and methods were esoteric understanding, available simply to a number of selected, but you can now easily experience tantric massage working in london.

[pinktragedytimetravel-blog]

Sensual massage London

Among the core statements of Tantric philosophy is the concept that sexual activities can be more than mere pleasure. Sexual energy may bring numerous rewards apart apparent, if a person has necessary skills and understanding to handle it correctly. For more information on Nuru massage, visit us to know more.

It may unclog the blockages of one's within the body, thus relieving psychophysical signs and symptoms of stress, providing you with more energy and vitality, more powerful health, boost of ideas that has been enhanced thought of arts, elevated personal efficiency and problem-solving abilities, profound insights in to the nature of products, and eventually, the blissful experience with unity with everything else, were personal limitations fade and deep realization of own divine nature happens.

Tantra has numerous techniques which will help a specialist to understand their sexual energy for the advantages of body, spirit and mind. Included in this is Tantric massage, which is an essential part of complex Tantric Arts.

For hundreds of years Tantric massage would be a technique available solely towards the adepts of Tantra who spent a long time in training. However as occasions change and world becomes one huge global village, ancient secrets understand to wider audiences. And fortunately, Tantric massage will come in London now. In the following paragraphs modern, London based experts of Tantric arts are explaining the concepts of Tantric massage.

Proper flow of one's within the body ensures smooth flow of existence, positive feelings and seem health. Tantric massage, when done properly, helps balance the flow of one's, realign important energy centers and strengthen body's self-regulation system. You won't just feel revitalized (some make use of the word reborn), but you'll also spot the numerous advantages of Tantric massage unfolding using the time, particularly if you utilize it regularly.

Sexual energy includes a tremendous power. The entire World was produced was produced by sexual energy, literally. In Hindu mythology The Final Deity has two aspects, men and women, as well as their constant interplay creates everything visible and invisible, in each and every moment. The Divine Creative principle is sexual, in the nature.

And thing about this primordial power, Shakti-Kundalini, resides in everyone. When awakened, it enriches a person's existence with beauty and elegance of divine quality.

Throughout the millennia in puritanical society of Europe these details weren't known, as well as the sexual revolution from the twentieth century introduced sexual freedom, although not sexual knowledge. But now you have to obtain awake and notice the limitless potential of sexual energy and employ it responsibly for that own well-being and happiness, and not simply mindlessly waste it around.

To be the heart of numerous revolutionary beginnings in culture and society, now London is pioneering in getting Tantric philosophy and exercise to everyone. Keen willing and able spiritual seekers who spent years in mastering eastern methods to sexuality proudly bring their understanding towards the visitors and residents of British capital. Several Tantric agencies have been opened up working in london within the last years. One of these is Shakti massages, youthful but promising company who not just offers Tantric therapies, but additionally educates people about Tantric arts.

Tantric massage is an ideal - and enjoyable - approach to sexual education. This massage enables you to definitely better understand and explore thorough all of the facets of you sexuality. The large potential of the vital power can be found, drawn on into, and employed for successfully achieving almost any aspiration.

Yet the very fundamental results of Tantric massage are highly beneficial, too. Included in this are elevated and finely-tuned physical perception and awareness, amplified sexual satisfaction, better ejaculation control (and resolved ejaculation problems) and much deeper reference to your lover.

But don't forget that at first of all, Tantric rituals serve an objective of self-discovery and private growth. Want to know more about lingam massage London? Visit our website today!

For hundreds of years Tantric teachings and methods were esoteric understanding, available simply to a number of selected, but you can now easily experience Tantric massage working in london.

[healthy4lifeonline]

The History of Foam Rollers

What’s the point of the cylindrical tube on the gym floor? And why do the people using such an innocent looking piece of equipment grimace so much?

The foam roller is a cylindrical piece of foam that has become internationally familiar over the last few years. This article summarily caps the history of the foam roller, starting from its roots in traditional massage all the way to why it works and also introduces different descriptions as to why it does.

The history of foam rolling

Foam rolling is a great form of manual therapy, that means using your hands, almost like a massage without the masseuse, so to appreciate where foam rolling comes from, it is important to delve into the origins of manual therapy.

Manual therapy can be traced to ancient civilizations in both India and China where it was used as a conventional medicine to treat a variety of medical problems. Research advises that the introduction of massage to Europe is associated to Per Hendrik Ling, who in the early 19th century formed a systematic method of powerful massage methods to improve your blood and lymph circulation. That said, Ling, is not considered to have been liable for the modern use of medical massage therapies. Instead, Dr. Johann Mezger, a physician from Amsterdam is connected with one of the first clinical use of massage therapy and was also the first person to watch at massage from a scientific viewpoint; looking at the anatomy and physiology of massage. Mezger and his organization also conducted many scientific experiments from the 1860s to the late 19th century to assess the effectiveness of massage. The practice of massage therapy as a cure (as opposed to for relaxation) reduced after the Second World War due to the increase of revisions including the snappily titled ‘proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.’ A form of stretching that physios and sports therapists still use today, ultrasound and microwave techniques that insisted on producing equivalent results without the concrete work, time and cost connected with deep tissue massage. Sports massage didn’t suffer the same drop off in popularity as therapeutic massage. Nowadays therapeutic massage is seldom used in Western medicine except in sports medicine and palliative care, although it is beginning a comeback in alternative and complementary medicine. So, back to foam rolling, the new kid on the block. The newest academically proclaimed use of foam rolling could be traced back to the year 2000 when it was mentioned in academic literature as a form of manual therapy, used to alleviate tension and aid recovery from exercise.

From this point on, the use of foam rollers slowly began to appear in both educational and more so modern literature, and their cult status continues to increase. In the past five years the use of the foam roller has exploded (not literally, unlike the also famous Swiss ball) and they can now be seen on virtually every gym floor in the country. There are, nonetheless, very few research studies that have looked at the effects of using a foam roller on the body.

How does it work? The Anatomy and Physiology of Massage and Self Massage

The point of foam rolling is to manipulate fascia. Fascia scientifically known as the dense unique connective tissue is a fibrous tissue that encompasses and combines every muscle, joint, and organ of the body. There are three main types of fascia, based on their location in your body; Superficial fascia found just underneath the skin Deep (or muscle) fascia, the dense fibrous connective tissue that penetrates and surrounds the muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels of the body Visceral fascia, this keeps your organs where they are intended to be and wraps them in connective tissue The fascia predominantly affected by self-massage and traditional massage (and therefore foam-rolling) is deep fascia.

What could be any easier? Just jump on a piece of foam and roll up and down. Could anyone do that right? Yes, anyone can, but very few do. Why? Mainly because it hurts but it is still beneficial, but my god is it sore.

Yes, today we are talking about the foam roller, the cost-effective means of kneading your aching muscles and pushing you to embrace pain during your rest days. Who created the foam roller? What was its purpose and how did it end up in gyms across the world?

By the end of the article you’ll have the answers to these questions and perhaps have a newfound appreciation for the $20 torture device.

Who created the foam roller?

Moshe Feldenkrais

Foam rollers were initially used by Feldenkrais practitioners through the 1980s. Never knew of it? Me neither.

Created by Moshé Feldenkrais in the latter half of the 20th century, the Feldenkrais technique aims to decrease injury and mobility issues alongside improving physical functioning through increasing clients’ knowledge of their own body. It originated in the early 1920s when Moshe Feldenkrais, a physicist, and martial artist, learned to minimize pain in his knee and improve his athletic accomplishments after paying keen attention to how his body moved. While its effectiveness has been challenged in recent years, there are those who swear by the Feldenkrais method in helping their ailments.

In any case, Feldenkrais practitioners first used foam rollers as body supports and to do standing stability work with their clients.

Knowledge of foam rollers didn’t remain a secret for long though. In 1987 physical therapist and then Feldenkrais student, Sean Gallagher began to use foam rollers as a self-massage tool. Gallagher soon got in contact with Jerome Robbins, a well-known Broadway star, and told Robbins about the advantages of foam rolling for hurting muscles. Overseeing a troupe of dancers who needed to be in show position every night, Robbins asked his cast members to experiment with foam rollers. To his great delight, the feedback from his dancers was overwhelmingly concrete, leading to the opening of foam rollers en masse for Broadway actresses.

So how did foam rollers end up on your Gym floor?

While it’s a little more challenging to pinpoint who started foam rollers to the weight lifting community, many are in understanding that the works of Physical Therapist Mike Clark during the 1990s helped spread the message of foam rolling under the guise of what Clark termed “self-myofascial relief.” In his pre-millennia writings, Clarke produced many manuals detailing foam rolling for self-massage practices. This eventually culminated in Clarke’s opus Integrated Training for the New Millennium published in 2001.

Slowly but steadily the fashionableness of foam rolling began to grow, especially amongst weight lifters, as a means of reducing aching muscles and improving gym performance. A 2004 T-Nation article by Eric Cressey and Mike Robertson demonstrates the enthusiasm early pioneers had for the roller. 2004 also saw the first foam roller patent registered in the United States, kicking the foam roller business into overdrive.

Nowadays a quick foam roller hunt on Amazon results in over 1,000 results, declaring it safe to say that the foam roller has become a fully acquired member of the weightlifting family. So just like the Swiss Ball, we have the physical therapy community to thank for yet a different gym toy.

So next time you’re crying your eyes out while rolling your quads, you know specifically who to blame!

from Healthy4LifeOnline http://www.healthy4lifeonline.com/the-history-of-foam-rollers/

[sherristockman]

Drug-Free Ways to Help Balance Female Hormones Dr. Mercola By Dr. Mercola Essential oils have been used for millennia to treat a myriad of health concerns. Given their potency, versatility and effectiveness, it comes as no surprise that essential oils can be useful in helping you balance your hormones. Many women have been successful in applying essential oils topically to alleviate premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramping and other symptoms. Some enjoy essential oils aromatically by diffusing them into the air, while others combine them with Epsom salts for a therapeutic bath. Evidence continues to emerge suggesting essential oils can play a beneficial role during menopause. This is certainly a topic relevant to many of my readers and may be worthy of consideration. Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy Although you may think of menopause as a season of life, it is medically defined as marking the cessation of a woman's menstrual period for 12 months. Menopause signals that your ovaries are producing less estrogen and you no longer have the ability to become pregnant. While some arrive at this stage earlier or later, the typical range for menopause is 45 to 55 years of age. The average age is 51, but most women experience this "change of life" at an age similar to that of their mothers.1 Previously, women going through menopause had limited options for managing the wide range of signs and symptoms that accompany it. One of the primary treatments — hormone replacement therapy (HRT) — has been linked to some forms of cancer. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI), which involved a landmark study of 160,000 postmenopausal women, showed that hormone therapy involving estrogen and progestin may not be suitable for all women. In fact, for women who had not had a hysterectomy, HRT dramatically increased their risk of breast cancer, dementia and strokes. Signs and Symptoms of Menopause If you have already reached menopause, you are likely familiar with many of the common signs and symptoms that accompany it.2,3,4 Keep in mind some of the following concerns may also arise during perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, which may last as long as 8 to 10 years. ✓ Bone loss and brittle bones ✓ Libido impacts, particularly a decreased interest in sex ✓ Sleep changes, including insomnia ✓ Hair changes, including texture or thickness, or increased body or facial hair ✓ Mood changes, including anxiety, depression and irritability ✓ Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse ✓ Hot flashes ✓ Muscle loss ✓ Voice changes ✓ Irregular periods during perimenopause ✓ Night sweats ✓ Weight gain, particularly around the waist Beyond HRT, doctors will often propose treatment or medications to target specific symptoms that arise before and during menopause. Rather than attempting to treat a collection of individual symptoms, I recommend you devise a treatment plan that addresses menopause as a whole — not bone loss, hot flashes or the like individually. Fortunately, though I am told menopause symptoms can be annoying, with proper treatment, they generally should not diminish your overall quality of life. That said, some women may experience horrifically debilitating symptoms before and during menopause. If that is you, please consult a physician before undertaking any form of treatment, especially prior to experimenting with alternative remedies. Conventional Treatments Versus Essential Oils If you are among the growing segment of women who feel uncomfortable with the idea of using conventional HRT to treat menopause or perimenopause symptoms, especially given the outcome of the WHI studies, you may want to consider essential oils. While more studies are necessary to validate their efficacy, essential oils may be useful to help you manage certain menopause-related symptoms. Obviously, each woman's body is unique and will respond differently to any form of treatment, including oils. For optimal results, I recommend you work with your doctor and other holistic health practitioners to find the remedies that will best address your concerns. With proper medical supervision, essential oils may be the missing ingredient your body wants and needs. Essential oils could provide you with the "best of both worlds" by helping to relieve some, or all, of the nagging and bothersome symptoms of menopause, thereby avoiding potentially harmful, conventional treatments. For certain, the risks of adverse outcomes are significantly reduced when using natural substances like essential oils. Essential Oils Believed to Have Positive Effects on Menopause Below are some of the essential oils believed to have the ability to ameliorate menopause symptoms.5,6,7 As you begin to work with these oils, I advise you begin with a small dose of an individual oil and proceed cautiously to higher doses and additional oils. Ideally, work with a qualified medical professional or essential-oils practitioner who has experience with hormone balancing. ✓ Clary Sage: Known to alleviate PMS pain, relieve hot flashes, soothe stressful feelings and improve hormone balance ✓ Geranium: Has been shown to help balance hormones and improve mood, as well as promote menstrual cycle regularity during perimenopause; also thought to have antianxiety and antidepressant effects ✓ Lavender: Long known to promote relaxation and sleep; now thought to aid in balancing hormones, easing cramps, soothing stress and alleviating menopause-related headaches, heart palpitations and hot flashes ✓ Pine: Believed to help reduce bone loss and protect against osteoporosis ✓ Rose: Proposed as a strengthener of the uterus, which may result in improved mood and a reduction in hot flashes ✓ Vitex agnus-castus: Also known as chasteberry and Abraham's balm; long professed to help with irregular menstrual periods and mood swings You may want to use these oils aromatically by diffusing them into the air, which will enable you to realize their many benefits without the potential safety risks of applying them topically or internally. Essential oil diffusers are readily available online or from your local natural health store. It has been shown that combining three to four drops of clary sage and an equal amount of lavender in a diffuser is a wonderful way to relieve PMS symptoms.8 Many women find it beneficial to incorporate essential oils into massage, which can be timed to support your body's needs around your menstrual cycle. When using them for massage, it's best to dilute essential oils into a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil. While peppermint oil is not specifically recommended for menopause, it has been shown to have a positive effect on headaches.9 If you suffer from headaches during your monthly cycle, you can apply peppermint oil directly to your forehead by hand or with a roll-on applicator. Essential Oil Blends That Help Soothe PMS Wellness Mama shares several recipes for essential oil blends designed to promote a sense of well-being around your monthly menstrual cycle by adding them to a soaking bath or massage oil.10 PMS Bath Blend: Mix 3 drops of clary sage, 2 drops of chamomile, 2 drops of geranium and 2 drops of lavender essential oils into 1/4 cup (85 grams) Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) before adding to the bath; soak in the water for as long as you desire PMS Hormonal Balance Blend: Mix 2 drops of clary sage, 1 drop of geranium and 1 drop of ylang ylang essential oil into 1/4 cup of Epsom salt; soak in the water for as long as you desire Menstrual Massage Blend: Mix 6 drops of lavender, 3 drops of clary sage and 3 drops of rose essential oil into 4 teaspoons of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. Use this blend as a massage oil to rub on your abdomen, back or all over your body Risks and Cautions Related to Using Essential Oils It almost goes without saying that simply because essential oils are natural, does not mean they're safe for you in every instance. Formulations, dosing and quality vary widely. Avoid taking essential oils orally, even if you're convinced they're high quality. Essential oils are exceptionally potent and may cause mouth, esophagus or stomach irritation. Other more serious consequences may also occur. Some oils can irritate your skin, even in small doses. For that reason, it's best to treat essential oils like any other medication by taking the following precautions:11,12 Adhere to the dilution instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid using more than the recommended dose Contact your local poison control center if you accidentally use too much or believe you are having a negative reaction to an oil Perform a patch test on a small area of your skin prior to using essential oils for massage and other applications Introduce only one essential oil at a time until you know which ones your body can handle, otherwise, if you have an allergic reaction, it will be difficult to determine which oil caused it If you already know you are allergic to the plant from which an essential oil is derived, it is safe to assume you may also be allergic to the oil; therefore, you should avoid it If you are pregnant or nursing, be sure to consult your doctor or essential-oils practitioner prior to using oils. Some essential oils have been known to cause cramping and uterine contractions during pregnancy.13 Other Ways to Naturally Balance Your Health and Hormones As I have often suggested, whether you realize it or not, your lifestyle choices have a tremendous impact on your overall sense of health and vitality. What you eat, how much you exercise and the quality of your sleep will have an effect, positive or negative, on your hormones. Besides using essential oils, women who wish to avoid HRT may also want to consider the following lifestyle remedies:14,15,16 ✓ Adopt stress-management techniques such as controlled breathing, meditation, prayer and yoga ✓ Avoid processed foods, which often contain chemicals and toxic additives that may interfere with your body's ability to regulate hormones ✓ Eat a healthy, balanced diet centered on whole foods, including organic vegetables and fruits, grass fed dairy and meat, and high-quality healthy fats ✓ Get regular exercise and make sure your program includes a variety of activities, such as core training, high-intensity cardio, peak fitness, stretching and weight training; avoid prolonged periods of sitting and remain upright and active as much as possible during non-exercise hours ✓ Limit your caffeine and sugar intake ✓ Maintain a healthy weight ✓ Quit smoking ✓ Reduce your intake of processed vegetable oils, some of which are genetically engineered, and balance your intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fats ✓ Sleep according to your body's age-related sleep needs As mentioned above, it is vital you consume plenty of high-quality, unprocessed fats as part of your daily eating program. To learn more about this, please see my latest book "Fat for Fuel." I would also emphasize the importance of optimizing your vitamin D levels. Omega-3 Fats Are Vital to Women's Health As mentioned above, omega-3 fats are an important part of the equation if you want to naturally balance your hormones. A study published in the Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey17 underscores the importance of omega-3 fats to women's health. Some of the potential benefits of omega-3s researchers cited include: Facilitate chances of pregnancy in infertile women Lower the risk of premature birth Increase the length of pregnancy and baby's birth weight Support the development of the baby's brain Help stabilize triglyceride levels, which often increase during hormone therapy The study authors also noted:18 "There is also some evidence that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids might help to prevent preeclampsia, postpartum depression, menopausal problems, postmenopausal osteoporosis and breast cancer." I have spoken often about the importance of choosing a high-quality, animal source for your omega-3 fats, such as anchovies, sardines or wild-caught Alaskan salmon. If those are not options for you, you might consider supplementing with a high-quality fish oil supplement or krill oil, which is my personal favorite. The Benefits of Bioidentical Hormones To avoid leaving you with the impression that all hormone therapy is bad, it's important to note that many women have found relief from menopause and perimenopause symptoms through bioidentical hormones. Because bioidentical hormones are readily available through a compounding pharmacist (a doctor's prescription is required), I recommend avoiding all synthetic and animal estrogens for hormone replacement. Three types of estrogens are commonly used in bioidentical HRT: estradiol, estriol and estrone. A commonly-prescribed formulation known as Tri-est includes 80 percent estriol with 10 percent each of estradiol and estrone. Estriol is considered the safest of the three and is the most commonly prescribed. It has been used safely for decades, and I believe it's particularly useful if you've had a hysterectomy. I also recommend using natural progesterone in lieu of synthetic progestins. There's reason to believe synthetic progestins are responsible for many, if not most, of the detrimental side effects of hormone therapy. Natural progesterone is made from a substance called diosgenin, which is commonly extracted from wild yams or soybeans. Even though it may be extracted from soy, it is a highly-purified hormone that contains absolutely no remnants of problematic soy substances. Whether you choose essential oils, diet and lifestyle changes or natural hormones — or a combination of all three — I hope you will recognize you have many healthy options available to support you before and during menopause.