Indian Head Massage – an ancient technique to revive and stimulate the mind and body

The term ‘Ayurveda’, a Sanskrit word, can be translated as ‘A way of life’, and has a distinct purpose, i.e. to nourish physical, mental and spiritual health.

In India, this traditional head massage, or Champissage, a Hindi verb for massaging or kneading, was originally popular amongst Indian women. The technique was passed down the generations as a way of caring and maintaining social bonds. Oils were applied to the scalp and the hair to keep it strong, healthy, luxurious and lustrous. And men often received the ‘Champi’ as a regular part of grooming at the barber shop. The massage is applied very energetically and fast in order to stimulate, invigorate and revive this part of the body.

Application and method

The advantage of this particular form of massage is that it can be conducted fully clothed and, therefore, is ideal if a client is short on time but would still like to receive the stimulating and relaxing benefits.

But for maximum benefit, it is better to remove the top half of your clothing so that the therapist can have direct contact with the skin. The therapist will then apply massage oil and conduct the treatment around your shoulders, neck, scalp and face. We only use non perfumed oils such as grape seed and almond. A treatment can be conducted seated in a chair or from a massage treatment couch.

Physical health benefits

Reduction of stiffness and pain around the shoulders/upper back, neck, face and scalp.

Increase of flexibility, and in turn, frees up movement in all of the above areas of the body.

Relief of common conditions such as cluster headaches and tension in the face, neck and shoulders.

Regular treatment can help improve circulation to the neck, shoulders, scalp, face and even the brain.

Increased blood flow may also improve the condition of skin, hair, and help to keep the mind and body more alert. And helps to create a glowing complexion.

Reduce stress and lower blood pressure

Support lymphatic drainage in localised areas.

Mental health benefits

Many of us lead very stressful lives these days and when too much mental or physical strain is placed upon us, our hormonal system changes, and the sympathetic nervous system is over stimulated. This, in turn, releases adrenaline and other hormones, causing high energy levels, unease and the ‘fight or flight’ response. Not especially harmful in survival situations and when we have deadlines to meet. However, if this occurs repeatedly, daily for example, it can lead to exhaustion, sleepless nights, increased levels of smoking, drinking more than the healthy limit of alcohol and poor diet (common coping mechanisms, of course). This can create a spiral of more and more stress on the mind and body.

Indian Head Massage clients typically experience the following mental health benefits:

Deep states of tranquillity and relaxation

Drift off to sleep but then wake up feeling refreshed and energised

Regular treatments help to stimulate the nervous system and reset the body mechanisms.

Many clients report back that following an Indian Head Massage, the quality and quantity of their sleep improve.

Others have noted that their mind and body feel more balanced and tranquil after this kind of treatment, i.e. they feel like they have had a mini holiday.

Spiritual benefits

These are more subtle and vary from client to client. Some report that following this kind of treatment they feel more connected to the universe and more in tune with their mind and body. Others see colours, especially when they close their eyes, and express that this is a very pleasant and heartening experience.

What is the next step?

So, if this article has aroused your curiosity, why not book a session and sample the benefits as outlined above? Simply call Paul on 910 665 601, who will be happy to discuss your current body condition and plan a session that fits around your schedule. For example, if you only receive one hour for lunch, we can plan a 30-minute session, or if you have more time on your hands, we can conduct a full 45-minute session.

Also read Paul Jokinen-Carter‘s article: The power of human touch or Fascia – the body’s intelligent support and communication system

Paul Jokinen-Carter

Paul Jokinen-Carter, Holistic Therapist and Counsellor from Natural Joki Flow, uses body work, mindfulness, hypnosis techniques and counselling to support the mental health of clients and help them overcome phobias and habits. You can contact him on 910 665 601 or by email at [email protected]