  Indian Head Massage involves the treatment of the face, neck, scalp, and shoulders. This type of massage can help to produce the following effects; general relaxation, improved blood circulation, improved lymphatic flow, reduced muscular tension, regenerated skin, softer skin, reduced stiffness in the neck and shoulder region, relief from muscular pain and fatigue.
When applied to the scalp and the facial muscles, Indian Head Massage encourages hair growth, helps to relieve sinus problems, eyestrain, headache, and insomnia. The portability of Indian Head Massage is making it increasingly popular. It can be carried out just about anywhere, is suitable for all ages, can be performed on ones self, does not require any de-robeing and does not require the use of oils. This makes Indian Head Massage available to everyone.
Origins
Records indicate that ancient Hindus, Persians, and Egyptians used forms of massage for many ailments. On the Indian subcontinent massage has been practiced for over 3000 years and the Ayurveda (Art of Life), a sacred book amongst Hindus written about 1800 BC, included massage amongst its hygienic principles.
Indian housewives massage forms part of their social activities. When the chores are finished in the afternoon they will meet for a gossip and to enjoy a head massage. The stimulating effects of massage are seen as benefiting the elders of the family, whereas the calming effects are valued when dealing with hyperactive children.
The general term for Head Massage in India is Champissage and is also the name of the oil they use. In the West this term has been adopted to denote a form of hacking (a chopping motion) used in Indian Head Massage: this uses a cage-like hand position. This form of hacking is unique to the Indian Head Massage treatment.
Benefits
Massage is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing activities one can experience. It is both mentally and physically relaxing. The therapeutic touch relieves stress and tension, leaving a good feeling of well-being and increased energy levels. Indian Head Massage is both physically and psychologically beneficial. The treatment manipulates the soft tissue and muscles as well as the nerves. The massage manipulations can have either a stimulating or relaxing effect, depending on the technique carried out.
Massage offers one of the best ways to deal with stress. It can help to re-educate the body, reminding us how to rest and relax. When the body has been re-balanced and the immune system boosted, the body is better able to fight off infection and begin recovery.
The use of oils
In India, Champissage oil is used for both men and women to keep their hair lustrous and well conditioned. The oil is applied to the head and is absorbed into the roots of the hair. It strengthens the hair, in part by removing dryness, which is responsible for brittle hair and some scalp disorders. It also softens the skin of the scalp, which promotes hair growth, slows down hair loss, and encourages vibrant, shiny hair.
While oils are not essential for an Indian Head Massage, oils can definitely enhance the experience and results. Here is a guideline to some of the traditional oils used;- Sesame - most popular choice among Indian families. Relieves swelling and muscular pains, strengthens and moisturizes the skin.
- Almond - a light oil, suitable for normal hair and scalp conditions.
- Coconut - a medium to light oil, moisturizes the skin, helps hair to become vibrant and alive.
- Olive - a heavy strong smelling oil for excessively dry hair and scalps.
- Jasmine - preferred by many Indian women for its beautiful perfume and for the shine it gives their hair.
Other oils that may be used include; - Evening Primrose - any skin type, very good for dry hair, scalp, and skin. Benefits for eczema and dermatitis, nourishing, soothing, promotes healings.
- Avocado - all skin, hair, and scalp types. Very beneficial for sensitive, dehydrated, and dry conditions, penetrative and soothing. Relieves any conditions that itch.
- Grapeseed - very light and gentle emollient. All types of hair, skin, and scalp conditions.
- Hazelnut - absorbs well, very good for stimulating the circulation, used on oily hair, scalp, and skin types.
- Wheatgerm - all skin types, very beneficial for inflamed and ageing skin conditions, nourishing, soothing, and promotes healing.
Massage Movements
There are various movements that can be used for an Indian Head Massage. Below are a few movements that you can try. Remember these movements are used on the neck and shoulders as well as the head.
- Use long slow and steady strokes. Use the entire surface of the palm keeping the pressure light and even. The palm should be flat. The main purpose of this movement is to promote relaxation.
- Try a kneading movement with one or both hands. Grasp the skin and surface muscles gently yet firmly with the thumb and fingers and roll and squeeze. Be careful no to pinch.
- For a stimulating effect try rapid alternative movements using both hands. Alternate between; tapping with your finger tips, hacking (think karate chop), beating using cupped hands, striking with a flat palm and pounding with fists. Do not do this too hard or for too long.
- Use the tips of your fingers or thumbs to make stationery circular pressure. Gradually increase the pressure.
These are only guidelines to get you started, if you want to practice Indian Head Massage professionally please contact Healing Hands International. Their details are listed at the bottom of the page.
The content for this article was supplied by Healing Hands International. Healing Hands offers the biggest range of complementary therapy courses in South Africa with branches across the country. Visit their website www.healinghands.co.za or contact them on 0861 101 831.
Disclaimer: Harmonious Living is written for and read by a community of individuals with strong and independent opinions. While the publishers of Harmonious Living are dedicated to providing a forum in which views can be openly expressed, those views do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.
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