The Magic of DIY Massage and Olive Oil

The Magic of Massage, Olive Oil & Herbs

By Cal Orey

His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree.

--Bible

Did you know that using olive oil found in your kitchen cupboard combined with essential oils from aromatic plants can help you to relax the body, mind, and spirit? This isn't news The art of using aromatic essential oil for physical and mental well-being goes way back to the Egyptians.

Ever suffer from a stressed muscle due to working out at the gym or doing too much indoor or outdoor housework? Actually, muscle aches and pains can affect you at any age. After swimming laps at a resort pool, bringing in plenty of wood for a fire at night (it gets chilly at night in the Tahoe mountains), walking the dogs, and vacuuming (whew!), sometimes my upper or lower back throb, especially during the summer when we get that extra boost of oomph to do it all.

I once called a local personal trainer, and he suggested calling a masseuse. Her fee: $120 per hour. During an ongoing recession I decided to be self-reliant and try a budget-smart on the cheap healing oil and my own two hands.

Callie's Reviving Massage Oil

This activating eucalyptus massage oil is effective for sore and aching muscles. Some of the common types of massage include stroking, kneading, percussion, and vibration. Combine the following essential oils:

20 drops eucalyptus
20 drops lavender
20 drops rosewood
5 drops chamomile
5 drops peppermint

Add 36 drops of this blend to 3 ounces olive oil. Shake briefly, and massage a small amount into tired, achy muscles and joints.

P.S. Don't hesitate to treat yourself to some olive-oil based soaps and shampoos for the ultimate at-home DIY spa experience. http://www.calicosmetics.com/ .

(Excerpt from The Healing Powers of Olive Oil)