A head massage feels divinely relaxing after a long day. Head massages, also known as Champissage, have been used for relaxation, cleansing, and medicinal purposes for hundreds of years.
Head massages originated from the ancient Indian practice called Ayurveda, which is based on balancing the mind, body, and spirit to promote long life.
Ancient Indians believed that all types of massage, coupled with the use of herbs, oils, and spices, help to improve the skin and muscles, encourage good health, and enhance the body’s powers of healing. A head massager allows you to have the benefits of a healing head massage in the comfort of your own home.
The Basics of Head Massage
When performing a head massage on someone who has a tension headache, you need to spend time on the skull base next to the hairline, as this is the point where tension pools.
A massage of the temples and forehead will help to relieve a tension headache. For some people, a scalp massage helps to reduce the symptoms of a migraine. Buying a head massager will allow you to easily perform a head massage at home.
Types of Head Massage
There are two types of head massage:
- Effleurage, which involves circular stroking movements
- Petrissage, which includes gentle kneading and lifting of the skull
A head massage should begin from the front to the back, using soft yet firm pressure.
The Benefits of a Head Massage
Head massages are not only relaxing but have numerous health benefits as well. These include:
Promoting hair growth
Head massages increase oxygen and nourishment to the hair follicles and stimulate hair growth. Indian women have used this technique for thousands of years, and if their beautiful hair is anything to go by, it works wonders!
Stimulating lymphatic drainage
Head massages stimulate and enhance lymphatic drainage and blood circulation to the neck, helping to expel waste from the body.
Helping you sleep better
Head massages relieve stress, make you feel relaxed, and help you sleep better. Insomnia is caused by stress, and a head massage gives you a deep feeling of wellbeing and relaxation.
Relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety
Head massages encourage oxygen supply to your brain, one of the best methods of lifting your mood and reducing anxiety. Oxygen helps you think more clearly; it is the same effect as when you exercise.
Memory boost
The reason we have short-term memory issues is that our brains have an overload of thoughts. A head massage relaxes you, helps your mind slow down, and heightens awareness.
Conclusion: A Word From the WellnessCouncil
Head massages have myriad health and beauty benefits. They make your skin glow and relax you as well, lifting your mood in the process and improving your blood circulation.
Sources
- https://www.relaxationcentre.co.uk/2014/08/05/7-benefits-of-indian-head-massage/
- https://www.huffpost.com/entry/scalp-massage-health-beauty-benefits_n_573b41e9e4b0646cbeeaf43f
- http://www.theleader.info/2018/03/18/history-indian-head-massage/
- https://www.massagetoday.com/articles/15160/15-Common-Mistakes-Massage-Therapists-Make