What are the benefits of an Indian Head Massage?
A great way to improve your wellbeing is through massage and in particular - Indian head massage.
Brief history of Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage has been practiced for thousands of years and as the name suggests it originates from India. The massage is based on the traditional system of medicine known as Ayurveda (meaning ‘knowledge of life’), which dates back in records more than 3,000 years ago.
The system is based on the idea of maintaining balance of the vital energies in the body and mind. If there are any imbalances this could cause disease and illness, so achieving the right balance with the mind and body promotes positive physical and mental wellbeing. In general, the Ayurveda system takes a natural and holistic approach to all aspects of health and wellbeing. According to Ayurvedic custom, a weekly massage is recommended to help balance the body energies – wouldn’t that be nice!
The modern-day concept of the Indian Head Massage was first introduced into the UK by Dr Narendra Mehta, who arrived from India in the early 1970’s. He began to miss the benefits of a regular head massage and decided to develop it in the west. He created the techniques and style we use today on the scalp, neck, shoulders, upper arms and face. This type of massage has increasingly become popular and has many benefits for all. Dr Mehta’s form of Indian Head Massage is also referred to as Champissage.
In the west, we tend to view the scalp as a separate part of the body and rarely give it the attention it needs – unless we are at the hairdressers or barbers. But more and more people see the benefits of looking after the scalp and Indian head massage has become so popular that it is a staple treatment in many spas and salons. Its popularity is due to the huge benefits, effectiveness and accessibility, as it can be done with or without oil, sitting up or laying down and practiced on anyone!
The benefits
The benefits of an Indian head massage are numerous and are immediately felt during the treatment but also continues long after it has finished:
· Relaxing, calming and revitalising
· Relaxes the muscles and reduces tension
· Reduces stress and anxiety
· Aids better sleep
· Improves focus and concentration
· Helps the lymphatic system and detoxification
· Stimulates circulation, helping hair growth and skin condition
· Soothes nerve endings
· Improves mindful breathing
· Relief from stiff muscles, improving mobility in the joints
· Relief from headaches, earaches, eye strain, sinus congestion and jaw ache
· Increased energy levels and reduces lethargy
· Improves immune system
Due to all these great benefits it’s no wonder it has become a firm favourite for many to improve wellbeing in our busy modern-day life.