Indian Head Massage
- sacredspaceastrolo
- Feb 4, 2023
- 2 min read
As the name suggests Indian Head Massage originated in India and has been around for a long time. It has been used as part of the Ayurvedic health system for thousands of years, Ayurveda meaning science of life.
Often used as part of the grooming process, head massage has many benefits. As many partakers will testify it is immensely relaxing, and indeed more recent studies have demonstrated a reduction in anxiety following Indian Head massage.
It was introduced into the UK in the 1970s and many have benefited from relaxing, relief from muscle tension as well as improved condition of the hair and scalp due to improved circulation to the scalp.
Treatments may be part of a full body massage, with the participant lying down on a bench, or the treatment may focus solely on the upper body and head with the participant sitting in a chair fully clothed.
While the name suggests massage of the head, a treatment usually involves the neck and shoulders and sometimes the face as well. It is so common in modern living for many to have tight necks, shoulders and scalps from sitting computers and desks. Massage can help release tight knots and improve the drainage of toxins from the muscles as well as aiding relaxation.
The beauty of massage is that it can encompass mind, body and spirit to the extent the receiver wishes. Some may be more concerned with tight shoulders or a stiff neck, and a massage can focus on just that and no more.
But for those who would like there to be a spiritual aspect to it as well, massage combines very well with Reiki. Indeed Reiki can be given at the same time as a massage if so wished. Indian Head massage can help balance the third eye and crown chakras and form part of a holistic approach to mind, body and spirit.
I can offer treatments lasting from 30-40 minutes depending on what your needs are. Some clients wish the focus to be on shoulders and neck, while others are looking for greater focus on head to aid relaxation. Your treatment always starts with a discussion as to what your needs are as well as a questionnaire to ensure that there are no contra-indications that I need to be aware of.
As with all treatments there are cautions and contra-indications. Indian head massage is not suitable for some-one who has had a stroke, or is at risk of stroke. It should be used with caution in case of cardiovascular disease and hypotension, as stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system can drop the blood pressure further and potentially lead to fainting.
But for the vast majority is a safe and enjoyable treatment. It is not unusual to feel drowsy after a treatment, but this is usually short lived. Making sure that you stay adequately hydrated will help with the elimination of toxins.
Credits:
Brighton School of Massage
Physical and Psychological Effects of Head Treatment in the Supine Position Using Specialized Ayurveda-Based Techniques
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4939366/
Using Indian head massage to aid recovery
https://www.nursingtimes.net/roles/mental-health-nurses/using-indian-head-massage-to-aid-recovery-21-06-2013/
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