Let me introduce the Japan Medical Aromatherapy Association, which popularized Japanese-style medical aromatherapy.

The Japan Medical Aromatherapy Association (JMAA) is a non-profit organization with a 36-year history since 1989, dedicated to contributing to society as a form of alternative medicine. As of 2022, 28,000 people have studied JMAA-style medical aromatherapy.

The organization was founded by the current chairman, Dr. Shoichi Yoshida, who introduced medical aromatherapy, recognized as a medical treatment in France and Belgium, to Japan, and further developed it into a Japanese style by collecting clinical data.

Currently, JMAA-style medical aromatherapy knowledge is being studied not only in Japan but also in neighboring China and South Korea.

Beyond disseminating medical aromatherapy knowledge, the JMAA also conducts research on environmentally friendly base materials.

They continuously provide members with the latest information on the rapidly advancing medical field and the rapidly changing domestic and international economies, teaching them how to use medical aromatherapy in a way that is relevant to the times.

I would like to introduce two activities of the Japan Medical Aromatherapy Association that particularly stand out in my memory.

■The Chairman and Kumamoto Branch Members Who Conducted Volunteer Activities While Affected by the Disaster
The first example is the Kumamoto earthquake that occurred on April 14, 2016.
At the time, Chairman Yoshida was in the area to hold an event.
She then worked with local staff to provide care using medical aromatherapy.
Furthermore, she heard about the experiences of her colleagues, including Ms. Kuroki, a director of the Kumamoto branch and a professional in exercise, who provided care for the mind and body of those who were living in cars as evacuation shelters and were worried about deep vein thrombosis (economy class syndrome), as well as those experiencing anxiety and stress, by dancing together.
Based on this experience, they regularly hold workshops on what medical aromatherapy can do during disasters and on mental care. They also conduct safety checks on members and maintain coordination in the event of an earthquake.

■Activities During an Infectious Disease Pandemic
The second example is the infectious disease that occurred worldwide in 2020.
People were forced to self-isolate at home, and medical institutions were overwhelmed. Amidst this situation, JMAA quickly switched its previously in-person study sessions online, creating opportunities to learn about medical aromatherapy that can be used at home, as well as knowledge and coping strategies for infectious diseases.

The regular sharing of the latest information allowed me to act calmly.

Anxiety and worry arise from the unknown.

Even obtaining and understanding just one piece of correct information can eliminate anxiety and worry. I'm truly glad that such a place exists.

◆My History with Medical Aromatherapy◆
After taking the "Self-Medical Therapy Course," I took the "Advisor" certified instructor course and, since becoming an advisor, I have been sharing JMAA's knowledge and products through courses, blogs, YouTube, and Facebook.

I started learning in 2013. It's been over 10 years since I obtained my qualification, but I continue to learn and share the ever-evolving JMAA-style medical aromatherapy, with its abundant free study sessions and affordable paid courses.

■Obtaining a qualification isn't the end.

In 2019, a website was created that can be used free of charge* by those who have obtained the instructor training course, to facilitate awareness and outreach activities. It's called "JMAA Cloud."

The website is easy to use; you design the structure yourself and input it into a template. I work in an office during the week, and it's been extremely useful for updating the website that I'm responsible for.

In this way, it's not a one-time learning experience; there's an environment where you can continue learning even after obtaining the qualification, and they also provide follow-up support for your activities.

*Currently, an annual management fee is collected once a year.


◆A fulfilling life depends on good health!

A year and a half ago, I contracted an infectious disease, and my health didn't recover for a long time. While receiving medical treatment during that time, I incorporated JMAA items as support. Recently, my health has finally stabilized, and I'm able to enjoy my days again. I feel every day that "being healthy is truly important." I will continue to cherish my own mind and body and share this message with everyone.

Finally, and this is a fundamental and obvious point, if you feel "something's not right," please see a medical professional immediately.

Medical aromatherapy plays a supporting role.
At JMAA, we believe that "when you experience physical discomfort, consult Western medicine first!"

Thank you for reading to the end.
Medical Aromatherapy Advisor, Kiyoka Sanagi