It would really be fantastic to be massaged in a tropical country, with the warm sun beating down, soft sounds of the sea in the background and the sweet scents of flowers occasionally wafting over you. Well perhaps it's like a dream but it is still possible to create a lovely, relaxing atmosphere at home, especially with the help of aromatherapy oils.

I think the most important consideration is that the room or area, you use to give a massage is really warm. It's a good idea to have a blanket, or large towel, so you can cover the parts of the body you are not working on. Also, it feels good to be wrapped up while being massaged. If you like, you can even wrap a hot water bottle in a towel and pop it under your patient's feet for a really luxurious treat.

Harsh, bright lights are unpleasant when being massaged. A table lamp gives a softer, gentler light than overhead lighting. Once you feel happy about your massage movements you can work by candlelight. The soft flickering of the flames has a soothing, hypnotic effect which is really relaxing.

Try to keep noise to the minimum, and close the curtains or blinds. This helps to cut out traffic noise. If you think you may be disturbed, unplug the telephone or switch off your mobile. Buy some really interesting music to play in the background. Music can be great help in creating a relaxing atmosphere. Sounds of the sea, tinkling bells, birdsong and running water all combined with gentle, lulling music can take you off into a dream like state.

Aromatherapy oils are marvelous for creating different atmospheres in the home and are much more authentic than using perfume sprays. There are several ways of scenting your home with essential oils. The simplest is probably to add a few drops of your chosen oil to a small bowl of water and then stand it over a radiator. The essential oil floats on the water and gradually evaporates into the air, aided by the heat.

A more sophisticated method is to use an oil burner or vaporizer. These come in many different designs, but with oil burners there is no need to use any water. You just put a few drops of essential oil into the top of the burner, and then light a night light underneath. Vaporizers usually have a deeper dish into which you add water, whether you use an oil burner or a vaporizer; do be careful not to let it burn dry!

Used in this way the oils can become mood enhancers. They can remove stale smells or even help with conditions such as headaches, colds or insomnia. Another way to perfume a room is to gather flowers and herbs from your garden and hang them up in bundles to dry.

I hope you have now a few ideas on how to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere for aromatherapy massage.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.