Indian Head Massage
Concept
Indian Head Massage was first documented in the texts of Ayurveda (knowledge of life) in around 600BC. Ayurveda is based on balancing the body, mind and spirit to promote long life.
It was thought that Indian women would massage their daughter’s heads with oils to keep their hair in good condition. It was also thought that the matriarch of the family unit, she would use this treatment within the whole family. Barbers would also use it on their male clients. Traditional head massage originally only included the head and scalp, whereas today, the neck, face and shoulders are included.
Indian head massage was brought to the West by Narendra Melita in the 1970s. He has been born totally blind and developed a highly sensitive power of touch. He worked as a physical and manipulative therapist in this country and after visiting India in 1978, he researched the traditional form of Indian Head Massage. He then went on to develop his own unique therapy. In 1981 he first showcased this new therapy at the London Olympia Mind, Body and Spirit Exhibition. It was a huge success and the word spread quickly. This is noted as the birth of modern Indian Head Massage.
From here, he went on to establish The London Centre of Indian Champissage in 1995. He was awarded the MBE and later died in 2011.
Therapy Objectives
Indian Head Massage is a treatment that focuses on massaging acupressure points along the head, neck and shoulders.
It is said to help increase mobility and flexibility in the neck and shoulder areas. It improves blood circulation, lymphatic flow and aids elimination of toxins. It is also said to reduce the affects of stress and tension whilst also calming the mind, promoting relaxation and aiding better sleep.
The aim of this type of massage is to release stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. It works within the Ayurvedic concept, which goes beyond the limits of healing and places the emphasis on balance. Working on the Chakras has a powerful effect and can bring the energy of the whole body back to balance.
It is said to help with conditions such as tension headaches, migraines, tinnitus and other ear problems. It may help with hair loss and thinning, muscle tension, eye strain, insomnia, sinus congestion, stress, anxiety and depression.