Choosing the Right Aroma Therapy Oil

Aroma therapy is a gentle oil massage, but the oil you choose changes the whole mood of it. Here's a quick guide so you can pick with a bit of intent rather than going in blind.

None of this is complicated, and you don't need to memorise it. Tell your therapist what kind of week you've had and they'll steer you. But if you like to know your options, read on.

If you want to wind down

Lavender is the classic for a reason: it's calming, familiar, and good if your head won't switch off. Chamomile is similar, soft and soothing, and pairs well with a slow, light massage in the evening.

If you're stressed and wired

Sandalwood and ylang-ylang are warmer, grounding scents that take the edge off a tense day. They're a good match if you've been running on adrenaline and need to come down a notch.

If you need a lift

Citrus oils like orange, lemon and bergamot are bright and fresh, the kind of scent that wakes you up a little. Lemongrass sits here too. Pick these for a daytime session when you don't want to leave feeling sleepy.

If your muscles are sore

Eucalyptus and peppermint have a cooling quality that suits tired, achy muscles, and they help if you're a bit congested too. These work nicely alongside firmer pressure.

There's no wrong answer here. The best oil is the one whose smell you actually enjoy. That's half the effect.

A couple of practical notes

• If you have sensitive skin or allergies, mention it before we start, and we'll adjust or patch test.
• Pregnant? Tell us, as a few oils are best avoided, and we'll keep to the safe ones.
• Scent is personal. If a smell doesn't sit right with you, say so and we'll switch it.

At Gladden

Our aroma therapy massage runs 60 to 90 minutes and costs ₹2,300 to ₹3,400. Come in, tell us how you're feeling, and we'll match the oil to it.