Stress is a part of modern life due to work pressures and responsibilities at home, so taking time to relax is so important in our day-to-day lives.
Many people choose massage therapy to relieve stress and tension and aid relaxation on a regular basis. One form of massage therapy which is very popular is the Indian Head Massage. As the name suggests, this form of massage therapy originated in India, where it has been used as a form of massage for over 5,000 years.
Indian Head Massage is based on the Ayurvedic system of healing, and it works on both the physical body and the mind too. Physically, it helps all the systems of the body – the immune system, nervous system, respiratory function, endocrine glands, circulation problems, muscular tension, skeletal system and lymphatic drainage. Mentally, it helps the mind to relax, connecting mind and body with an energy that assists all body systems to heal, restore and renew themselves.
It sounds divine. However, Indian Head Massage isn’t simply a ‘treat’ – the benefits are important in maintaining good health and wellbeing. Here’s an idea of how it works:
Massage, oils and relaxation
Massaging the scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles which speeds up the process of receiving vital nutrients, oxygen and disposal of toxins.
Massaging the scalp also stimulates the production of sebum, the skins natural oil. This oil works to condition, nourish and protect the hair follicle, hair root and hair shaft simultaneously.
Using an additional oil such as almond oil, argan oil or coconut oil, can elevate the whole treatment. Warming the oil first enables it to penetrate into all layers of the hair shaft, locking in moisture. This creates a glossy shine, prevents breakage and gives the hair extra elasticity.
When the muscles of your head, neck and scalp are tense, it hinders circulation to the area, interfering with healthy hair growth. Massaging the area will induce relaxation, allowing optimal blood flow to resume.
Healthy skin and hair are not the only benefits of head massage. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of Indian Head Massage …
1. Helps prevent migraines, headaches and back pain
Tension held in the upper back, neck and head can lead to migraines, headaches and localised pain, leaving you uncomfortable, and irritable. Those working at a desk all day without good posture are more susceptible to this type of issue, which if left unattended can lead to ongoing problems and even depression.
A massage therapist will start the Indian Head Massage by gently working the muscles in the upper back, arms and shoulders, then slowly apply more pressure that will release tense muscles and tight knots. They will then move to the neck and head to reduce headache-causing blockages and encourage better circulation of the cerebral fluid.
2. Promotes hair growth
Hair growth is a lovely side effect of the Indian Head Massage (if you’re trying to grow your hair anyway!).
The massage can stimulate hair growth as it can increase nourishment and oxygen to the hair follicles and this, in turn, can stimulate hair growth. Although there are no guarantees, quite often hair loss can be stress related so even the simple fact that you are relaxing will help.
3. Helps with sleep issues
An Indian Head Massage will immediately relieve stress and promote relaxation by attacking the physical symptoms, thus allowing for a broader sense of wellbeing and relaxation and opening your body to better rest and repair.
Many of us suffer from insomnia, broken sleep, and waking up feeling tired, and these are usually side effects of stress. A regular Indian Head massage will relieve stress and encourage you to relax, therefore allowing the body to rest better when it’s time to sleep.
4. Relieves symptoms of anxiety and depression
An Indian Head Massage is so much more than just a standard head massage. Using the energy within your body, the massage therapist can help to reduce mental tension and give you a clearer mind. Massaging the head encourages the supply of oxygen to the brain which is one of the best ways of reducing anxiety and lifting your mood. All that oxygen helps you think clearly and creatively, and a similar effect is produced when we exercise.
Going for any massage is very relaxing, and relaxation can help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, so taking time out for a massage is important for your mental health as well as your physical health. Indian head massage brings a sense of peace and calmness which you may not receive from other massages.
5. Renews energy levels
An Indian Head Massage works with the Ayurvedic concept which goes beyond the limits of healing and places emphasis on balance. Working on the chakras and creating a feeling of well-being, Indian Massage has a powerful effect on increasing your energy levels and bringing the energy of the body back into balance.
6. Boosts memory capabilities
Busy, stressful lives can cause memory loss. Our brains are overloaded with disorganised thoughts, making it difficult for our minds to work efficiently.
Having an Indian head massage is like pressing the reset button. An Indian Head massage will force you to relax, slow down and calm down. During the massage, tension is released, thoughts start to quieten down, and the brain can ‘recharge’. This state of mind is much better for us in leading proactive, healthy and productive lifestyles.
It is the combination of benefits for both the mind and body which is why you should try and Indian Head Massage. It can be an ideal way to take some time to relax on a regular basis and allow yourself to feel calm and free from stress.
Don’t allow stress and tension to pile up
Sharon Cole
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