Elevate Your Massage and Bodywork Practice With Aromatherapy

Discover the power of plant allies, and transform your sessions from routine to deeply restorative.
In the ever-evolving world of massage and bodywork, one thing remains constant: the profound desire to support healing in others. As practitioners, we strive to offer relief, relaxation, and reconnection—both physically and energetically. While hands-on techniques are the cornerstone of our craft, integrating aromatherapy into your massage practice is one of the most powerful ways to deepen the healing process for your clients—and yourself.
The Origin of Holistic Integration
From my earliest memories, aromatic botanicals were part of my life. I remember my dad massaging arnica oil into my legs when they ached, and using herbal oils on my great-grandmother for back pain. The sense of relief was real, tangible, and lasting. That’s when I fell in love with the power of plants.
Years later, when I became a Massage Therapist at 19, I knew that herbs, oils, and aroma would be a core part of the medicine I brought to the table—literally.
“Through the years, I’ve cultivated a really traditional and holistic approach to bodywork... We get to make art here—we get to flavorize our treatments and let many modalities inspire our creative flow with clients.”
— Fernanda Santiago, Holistic Aromatherapy for Bodyworkers
Why Most Spas Get Aromatherapy Wrong
In many spa settings today, aromatherapy is an afterthought—a drop of lavender in the lotion or a mist of eucalyptus in the air. While pleasant, these gestures barely scratch the surface of what true, holistic aromatherapy can offer.
What Is Holistic Aromatherapy?
Holistic Aromatherapy is the intentional and safe use of essential oils that considers the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. It’s not just about scent—it’s about purpose.
Benefits of Holistic Aromatherapy in Massage:
- Supports muscular, emotional, and energetic wellness
- Increases lymphatic flow and circulation
- Triggers parasympathetic nervous system (rest/digest)
- Enhances client relaxation and receptivity
- Creates a tailored, deeply therapeutic experience
“Aromatherapy is not just smelling oils out of a bottle. The physical aspects are profound when applied properly. Pain relief and a sense of deep relaxation is experienced. This sets the tone for healing.”
— Fernanda Santiago
Introducing the Holistic Aromatherapy for Bodyworkers Course
A Hands-On Training Designed for Massage Therapists
This immersive workshop gives you the tools and confidence to start using aromatherapy immediately in your sessions.
In This Course, You’ll Learn To:
- ✅ Identify and work with high-quality essential oils
- ✅ Create targeted blends for specific client concerns
- ✅ Support emotional, muscular, and energetic needs
- ✅ Make custom projects and blends to take home
- ✅ Understand safety, dilution, and oil properties
- ✅ Expand your therapeutic toolkit with confidence
Every enrollment includes a copy of my book, Holistic Aromatherapy for Bodyworkers, a guide packed with wisdom, safety protocols, and treatment ideas.
Now Is the Time to Elevate Your Practice
- Craving a way to reignite your passion for bodywork?
- Want to customize your sessions with intention?
- Ready to master a modality rooted in ancient healing wisdom?
Then this class is for you.
“Massage therapists create a multisensory experience that is highly individualized. Your sessions will drastically enhance as you become more confident with plant essences.”
“It is compassion, then, that is the best protection; it is also... the source of all healing.”
— Sogyal Rinpoche
FAQs About Aromatherapy Therapy For Bodyworkers
What are the best essential oils to start with as a massage therapist?
Beginner oils that provide the most therapeutic benefit include:
- Lavender (relaxation, sleep)
- Peppermint (muscle relief, headaches)
- Eucalyptus (respiratory support, circulation)
- Sweet Orange (mood elevation, lymphatic flow)
- Frankincense (deep relaxation, spiritual balance)
Is aromatherapy covered by massage therapy licensing?
Most states allow the topical use of essential oils within a massage session without additional licensing, as long as you follow safety guidelines. Always verify with your local board.
How can aromatherapy increase my massage income?
Adding aromatherapy can:
- Justify a higher service price point
- Allow custom add-on charges ($10–$25 per session)
- Increase client retention through personalization
What’s the difference between using essential oils and holistic aromatherapy?
Using essential oils casually (e.g., diffusers or single drops) is not the same as therapeutic integration. Holistic aromatherapy involves intentional selection, safety knowledge, and understanding client-specific responses.
Where can I get trained in aromatherapy for massage therapy?
This Holistic Aromatherapy for Bodyworkers course is specifically designed for LMTs and bodyworkers. It includes hands-on training, blending techniques, safety education, and tools to confidently integrate oils into your practice.