Holistic Wellness Class — Essential Oil Neck & Shoulder Massage Workshop
CUHK FAA Cheung Suen Cheong College
Mental health has always been a topic of concern. Facing pressures from academics, work, and social life, how should we cope with these challenges?
In November, we partnered with CUHK FAA Cheung Suen Cheong College to hold three sessions of an essential oil neck and shoulder massage workshop. The goal was to share foundational aromatherapy knowledge and practical experience with students, offering them moments of tranquillity amidst their busy school lives and building healthy attitudes towards holistic wellbeing.
The first session focused on essential oil origins and the science of how essential oils interact with the human body. We first introduced essential oil raw materials, letting students experience common plant sources such as orange, rose, ginger, and peppermint. Through videos and diagrams, students learned about different scientific extraction methods (steam distillation, solvent extraction, cold pressing, diffusion permeation, CO₂ extraction, etc.) and how aromatic molecules enter the body through inhalation or skin absorption to interact with the nervous system. During class, we used a wild orange and peppermint blend for a soothing breathing exercise, allowing students to put theory into practice.
Sessions two and three focused on essential oil stress-relief methods, including acupoint massage, breathing exercises, and mindfulness.
In the second session, we used the ‘fluid mosaic model’ from cell biology to explain the importance of diluting essential oils with coconut oil and its benefits for the body. We also introduced common massage acupoints such as Dazhui, Jianjing, Hegu, and Fengchi, and students experienced acupoint massage using an AromaTouch massage blend diluted with fractionated coconut oil. After the session, each student received a bottle of massage oil to take home and continue using, sharing what they learned with family and friends.
In the final session, we guided students through an essential oil mindfulness exercise and introduced the Aroma Emotional Application Wheel and mood-relief comfort foods. We explored the relationship between food, scent, and emotions, and shared tips for emotional wellbeing to help students manage their personal feelings.
Students’ enthusiastic participation made every session end with laughter, and they took what they learned back into their daily lives.
We truly treasure this valuable opportunity to provide the next generation with a safe and effective way to relieve emotional stress, and we are honoured to contribute to the community for those facing emotional challenges.
If you are interested in essential oil products, please feel free to contact us. INSPIRE also welcomes organisations and groups to arrange customised workshops promoting wellness education and the importance of self-care.