THE INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE

BY: LISA BRENNER

Massage has always played an integral and natural role in Indian life. Starting from birth, infants often receive a daily massage to keep them in good health. After about the age of six they are taught to share a massage with family members on a regular basis.

Indian Head Massage arose from this tradition. Women used these techniques as part of their grooming routine, utilizing different oils, herbs and spices to keep their hair strong, lustrous and in beautiful condition. Over time barbers would include an invigorating scalp massage to stimulate and refresh their clients ’ hair and scalp. This became known as Champissage. Champi is a Hindi word meaning shampoo. Being ‘ champi-ed’ meant having your head massaged.

Another form of Indian head massage is known as Shiroabhyanga. Shiro means head and Abhyanga means massage. This treatment utilizes medicated oils that are gently poured onto the forehead, allowing the oil to saturate the hair and scalp. Then, gentle but firm massage is given to the entire head, neck and shoulders, which are areas where tension tends to accumulate.

While massage is wonderful for relieving physical tension, it also works on an emotional level too, calming the spirit, promoting relaxation and relieving stress. Receiving gentle, loving, rhythmic touch has a profound effect on the nervous system, leaving one feeling peaceful, calm and rested.

Let’ s take a closer look at some of the benefits of receiving an Indian Head Massage.

Skin and Hair

Massaging the scalp improves circulation, stimulates hair growth and helps to spread the natural oils produced by the scalp along the whole length of the hair, allowing them to protect and condition right to the tips. Massage also stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to drain away the toxins that gather in your skin and muscles. Regular sessions can help improve the texture and tone of your skin, leaving it noticeably smoother and softer.

Muscular strains and headaches

The neck and shoulder area tends to hold a significant amount of tension. Indian Head Massage not only releases the tension in this area but also stimulates the blood and lymphatic system to help eliminate toxins and facilitate healing. Massage around the head and neck also encourages the circulation of cerebral fluid which can help reduce the pain from headaches and migraines.

Reduced stress and anxiety

This form of massage is very helpful in relaxing the body and melting away stress. It can literally feel like a weight is being lifted from your shoulders! A decrease in stress levels can help improve mood, sleep quality and your immune system.

Other benefits include reduced sinus pain, improved memory and concentration, increased energy and diminished eye fatigue and strain.

With all of these benefits it’ s easy to see why this head massage technique has been around for thousands of years and continues to gain in popularity. If people massaged each other ’ s head and hair on a regular basis, the world would be a happier place!