What is Indian Head Massage?

Remember - Tuesday Treat - 45min IHM session for £15!!!
Indian Head Massage is a treatment which has its roots in old Ayurvedic techniques involving work on the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp and face. Various massage movements are used in and around these areas and an average treatment session will last approximately 45 minutes. The aim of Indian head massage is to release the stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. A variety of massage movements are used to relieve accumulated tension, stimulate circulation and restore joint movement. IHM is also used to aid the condition and health of the hair, particularly when combined with the use of natural organic oils. Indian Head Massage aims to help reduce stress and fatigue, increase mental clarity, and relax and rejuvenate the receiver. (return to the top)
A Brief History of Indian Head Massage
The Hindi word for head massage is "Champi" and aspects of the treatment have a long tradition in Indian families. Mothers would stroke their daughter's hair to promote its growth and health. Narendra Mehta - blind from the age of one - grew up in India and head massage was an integral part of his life. He came to England in the 1970s to train as a physical therapist and in 1978 returned to India to study the benefits and practice of champissage, extending it to include neck, shoulders and face. On his return to England, he developed a sequence of movements. There is no right or wrong way and sequence of movements vary from one therapist to another. (return to the top)
What Are the Benefits?
Indian Head massage may bring about:
- General feeling of wellbeing, calmness and relaxation
- Dispersal of toxins from tense, knotted muscles
- Stimulation and improvement of circulatory and lymphatic systems
- Improvement of joint mobility
- Higher levels of alertness and concentration
It may also help relieve or alleviate:
- Tension headaches
- Eyestrain / eye problems
- Tinnitus and other ear problems
- Insomnia
- Neck and shoulder stiffness
- Sinusitis and congestion
- Hair loss/thinning
- Scalp tension
- Mental tiredness/anxiety/stress
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What Does it Involve?
A consultation is carried out on the first visit which will last about 15 minutes during which any concerns can be raised by the client including sensitive areas to be avoided. The therapist will take a medical history to ascertain whether GP consent is needed before proceeding with treatment.
The client sits in a chair for the treatment. The therapist uses a range of different movements including application of deep kneading and compression movements over the neck, shoulder and scalp areas. In addition, the therapist will also gently stimulate and stroke pressure points on the face.
Following a treatment some clients experience tiredness, dizziness, an increased desire to urinate (as the body may be eliminateing toxins and waste materials) or aching muscles. All of these side effects should last for no more than a few hours, after which clients may experience increased energy and alertness. Indian head massage should be avoided if you have had recent surgery, or a head or neck injury; a history of thrombosis or embolism; spondylitis or spondylosis.
If you have high or low blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, any kind of heart condition, cancer or osteoporosis, talk to your doctor before arranging a treatment. Always make sure that you avoid alcohol before and after the treatment. (return to the top)