Ayurvedic Head Massage

Indian head massage (IHM) is a Hindu massage technique, tracing back to the ancient ways of Ayurvedic Indian health care. Used for over thousands of years to improve overall health, this massage has become more and more prevalent in recent years. It is also known as champissage or shiroabhyanga. It is a deep, rhythmic massage of the head, neck, and shoulders, typically using warm herbal oils chosen to balance the body’s specific energy, or dosha.

The practice focuses on the parts of the body that are most prone to tension and stress: scalp, face, neck, arms, shoulders, and upper back. IHM combines techniques to include various massage strokes and acupressure points. Treatment includes kneading and probing of the neck and shoulder areas. The scalp is then massaged, using squeezing, tapping, rubbing or prodding motions. The therapist will also manipulate facial pressure points to relieve sinus pressure, increase alertness and stimulate circulation. A client’s ears may then be pressed and tugged, and their hair tousled. Through a variety of massage movements, Indian head massage also restores joint motion and aids in the condition and health of hair resulting in improved hair growth.

Indian head massage increases mental clarity and rejuvenates the person receiving the massage. Although treatments include massage of the back, arms, shoulders and neck, head massage and face massage make up the main parts of the treatment.

IHM is a clothed modality. As the technique is easy to apply over a blouse or shirt, Indian head massage is ideal for people who are modest or for less able bodied such as the elderly people, or those who have arthritis or a disability. Some treatments may include the use of special oils, which are also beneficial to hair growth.

Therapeutic and relaxing, IHM is effective in treatment of stress-related ailments like migraines and headaches. It can be performed anywhere and requires less time than a body massage treatment, typically lasting about 30 minutes. A shortened version of IMH massage can be added to any session.

Benefits

The benefits of Indian head massage include that it helps release of toxins from tense and knotted muscles, and improves oxygen flow to the brain. It also reduces jaw ache, stimulates lymphatic drainage and aids sleep. The treatment is especially effective in relieving tightness around the neck and shoulders. By stimulating the release of endorphins IHM also aids in reducing stress and anxiety, and alleviating mental tiredness.

Boosts circulation. The rhythmic strokes enhance blood flow to the head, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the brain and scalp.

Relieves pain. It is known to help ease headaches caused by tension, as well as chronic neck and shoulder pain.

Aids in detoxification. By stimulating the lymphatic system, the massage helps remove waste and toxins from the body.

Improves sleep quality. By soothing the mind and body, a head massage can help alleviate insomnia and promote restful sleep.

Reduces stress and anxiety. The massage works on marma (acupressure) points on the head, neck, and shoulders to relieve tension and calm the nervous system.

Enhances mental clarity. Increased circulation to the brain can improve focus, concentration, and memory.

Promotes healthy hair and scalp. The massage and nourishing herbal oils strengthen hair follicles, prevent hair loss, reduce dryness and dandruff, and encourage stronger, shinier hair growth.