it is. But aromatherapy comes close. Well lauded throughout Europe for their emotional, physical and aesthetic comforts, the benefits of the essential oils used in aromatherapy are quickly becoming recognised and sought after in the US and Bermuda. With varying methods and products available at many of Bermuda's fine beauty houses, choice becomes an immediate problem. According to the people at Face & Body Shop however, for quality products, expert technique and individualised service, theirs is the place to visit. "I think people are going back to the natural way of life,'' explained Face & Body aromatherapist Kirsty Thompson. "People are tired of chemical products and the herbs and plants now used in aromatherapy have been long recognised for their healing properties. A lot of problems stem from stress. If you can combat stress, you can combat ailments. Anything from the common cold on, aromatherapy treats it all.'' Precisely described as the art of using essential plant oils and treatments, aromatherapy is used to complement many treatments including massage, herbal wraps and skin care. Once thought to be waste products, the oils are actually concentrated essences of plants and part of the plant's own immune system with the plant producing more when under stress. Completely pure, they are taken through a completely natural process during which no chemicals are added. "Each oil contains individual benefits to which the body and mind respond,'' added Ms Thompson. "Since the use of essential oils, incense and perfume began, it has been believed that they could heal the body, alter moods, stir memories, arouse sexual desire and generally improve the quality of life. But what you're actually using is your own sense of smell and touch (through massage) to really stimulate your body into healing.'' Face & Body Shop owner, Lynn Thompson, said it is especially useful to mothers. "Stress is one of the most prominent health problems of today and can contribute to both mental and physical complaints. Stress can manifest itself in many ways, from insomnia to allergies to high blood pressure. Relaxation then becomes one of the foremost ways to tackle the problem. One of the effective and pleasurable ways of promoting relaxation is through aromatherapy. "The essential oils are used in conjunction with a massage technique that focuses on points of pressure and drainage. It works with the lymphatic system to clean the body and is actually a good treatment for cellulite,'' she said, adding that their products may also be purchased and used at home. "People can even have shampoos and conditioners personalised for any kind of problem they want to treat. It works

9 Face & Body either through inhalation or it can be absorbed through the skin similarly to tobacco patches. Use them in the bath, directly on the skin as a moisturiser, or use the oils in ceramic burners to fragrance the room.'' The Face & Body Shop is in the Bermudiana Arcade.

Lynn Hamilton HEALTH HTH