What is Indian head massage?
Indian head massage, also known is a treatment that focuses on massaging acupressure points along the head, neck, and shoulders, often using circular massage strokes to improve hair and scalp condition.
Indian head massage is an ancient therapeutic practice that has been used in India for over 2000 years, (since around 600 B.C.), and requires no oils or equipment, making it a very accessible treatment, perfect for newcomers to massage. It is usually done while seated and through light clothing.
It originates from an Indian alternative medicine system called Ayurveda, (translated as the ‘science of life’), whereby it is believed that the mind and body are intricately connected and thus can influence one another. Through this theory, it is understood that Indian head massage can not only reduce headaches and improve physical well-being, but it can also improve mental and emotional wellness too.
A typical Indian head massage treatment, usually starts with the shoulders, working into this area especially as it often holds a lot of tension. The upper back may also be massaged working around the shoulder blade. Following this, flowing motions will move up the neck massaging and stretching to relieve any stress and tension. Finally, the scalp is then massaged along the acupressure points on the head, followed up by the forehead and the area around the eyes. The upper back and arms can also be massaged depending on the techniques being used. This massage will be coupled with oils, which condition the hair and promotes growth and healthy skin. Coconut and almond oil are the most popular to use, which are perfect for dry hair. Mustard oil, sesame oil, olive oil, and jasmine oil can also be used with varying specific benefits for skin and hair health.
Benefits of Indian Head Massage
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Aids in the relief of migraines
Often tension in the mid back, neck and head can lead to headaches and migraines. Your massage will focus on applying pressure to the mid back, arms and shoulders to reduce tension in the muscles. Massage around the neck and head encourages circulation of cerebral fluid and reduce headache causing blockages.
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Promotes Hair Growth
Massage to the scalp and head increases nourishment and oxygen to the hair follicle which in turn stimulates hair growth. Kneading of the head during a massage, opens up the blood vessels on the scalp and helps in better absorption by the blood vessels . Each hair follicle needs equal amount of nutrients to go into them for the proper growth of each of the strands. Therefore the more massage you have (also accompanied by a good shampoo), the greater the chances of good hair growth.
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Stimulates Lymphatic Drainage
The lymphatic system removes waste products from the tissues and back to the heart. Indian head massage aids in this process by stimulating circulation, encouraging the natural drainage of the lymph. It also helps in bringing new nutrients and oxygen to cells. Indian head massage when used for lymphatic drainage can be used to treat swelling and post-traumatic facial oedema after bruising, fracture or surgical procedure.
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Relieves insomnia and fatigue
Indian head massage relieves stress and tension within the body by promoting relaxation. This allows a deep sense of well being and relaxation, which in turn affects your sleep cycle.
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Relieves symptoms of anxiety and depression
Massaging the head encourages the supply of oxygen to the brain which is one of the best ways of reducing anxiety and of lifting one’s mood. Oxygen helps you think clearly and creatively and a similar effect is experienced through exercise.
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Renews energy levels
An Indian Head Massage works with the Ayurvedic concept which goes beyond the limits of healing and places emphasis on balance. Working on the chakras through Indian Massage has a powerful effect in bringing the energy of the body back into balance.
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Boost memory capabilities
Often we have short-term memory difficulties because our brains are overloaded with disorganised thoughts, making it very difficult for us to efficiently ‘log’ and collect thoughts and occurrences. Indian Head Massage slows us down, sensual awareness takes over, thoughts quieten and awareness is brought to the forefront.