Massage is extremely effective in the treatment of muscular spasm and contraction, and used in sports injuries it can reduce fluid retention and swelling while stimulating blood circulation and lymphatic flow. Massage should always be gentle. Long, gentle, smooth strokes are the most useful for sports injuries. Use the flat of the hand, moving away from the injured part, but always in the direction of the heart - from hand to shoulder, foot to thigh, and so on.

Muscles can be toned with essential oils, used in conjunction with exercise. Add the oils to a bath or to a massage oil applied either before or after the bath. To keep muscles supple, put the essential oil on to a face-cloth and rub on to the muscles in the shower before exercise. Use the following essential oils:

Aerobic exercise is helped and improved when using essential oils, which not only tone muscles but facilitate easier breathing and increased circulation:

Over-exercised muscles cause pain and in some cases the inability to move without trembling as the muscles struggle to contract. Rest is the best remedy, followed by hot baths and massage. If pain continues to be a problem you may have an injury. Ice can reduce swelling, if there is any, and the pain caused by inflammation. Follow this with a hot bath into which you have put 3 drops of marjoram and 2 drops of lemon and soak for as long as possible. Afterwards massage with the following oil: