What is Indian Head Massage?

Indian Head Massage has been used for centuries to address a variety of issues ranging from the physical to the emotional. While it traditionally only targeted the scalp and hair, more modern forms of the practice include massage of the neck, head, shoulders, and sometimes even arms and hands.

Because it can be performed fully clothed, it is a fast and non-intrusive form of massage, which is perfect for nervous first-timers.

The benefits of Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage is thought to boost the supply of oxygen to the brain, stimulate blood flow and focus your attention and awareness on the body. Positive effects of this kind of treatment may include:

• Reduced depression and anxiety
• Alleviation of migraines and neck pain
• Improved memory and concentration
• Stimulation of hair follicles for hair growth
• Decreased stress
• Better sleep habits

The origins of Indian Head Massage

This particular practice is believed to have originated with Indian women performing head massages on their daughters to maintain healthy, luscious hair. Massage has always been an important aspect of Ayurvedic culture, and is still seen as a regular part of life in India. Children receive daily massages to promote good health and wellbeing from infancy, and are encouraged to pass on the techniques to other members of the family from a young age.

While remaining an Indian tradition, this type of head massage is now practiced around the world. This is mostly thanks to Narendra Mehtra, who came to England in the 1970s to train as a physical therapist and was disappointed to observe an absence of attention paid to the head during massage training. Following further study and research, he developed a holistic technique that included the neck and shoulders, transforming the traditional practice into a popular contemporary therapy.

What techniques are used in Indian Head Massage?

Sessions typically range in length from 30 minutes to 1 hour, although they can also be shorter, for example: if used by a barber before or after a haircut. Your therapist will usually begin by applying pressure to the upper back, neck, shoulders and arms to relax the muscles and boost the flow of energy to the head. They will then move up to the scalp, and this area will be massaged to increase the flow of oxygen and improve circulation.

If desired, the massage may also extend to the face, which may be effective in helping to relieve symptoms of sinus problems and headaches.

Who can benefit from an Indian Head Massage?

Indian Head Massage has been shown to be very helpful for people with issues relating to tension in their neck and head area, such as headaches. Recipients may find that it brings about a sense of balance and calm to the entire body, along with some surprisingly powerful tingles.

As the practice requires you to be upright and clothed, it is a massage that can be performed quickly and easily. Because of this, Indian Head Massage is ideal for anyone who sits at a computer all day seeking a release of tension during their lunch break.