Massage
Indian Head Massage
The History
Indian head massage (champisage) has been practised in India for over a thousand years. Centuries ago Indian head massage was developed as part of a family 'Grooming tradition' in Indian households. Head massage has always played an important role in India as a holistic healing method. Many babies would receive daily massage up to the age of six years. The treatment was further developed by Narendra Mehta who went to India in 1978 to research traditional head massage and came back with his own unique therapy.
What is Indian Head Massage?
The Indian head massage is a form of massage therapy that is safe for almost anyone to receive. It is adapted from techniques in Ayurvedic medicine to specifically reduce strain and tension in the upper back, head, face and neck. The word ayurveda is made up of two words. Ayur means 'life' and veda means 'knowledge'. The ayurvedic approach is a holistic one, encompassing the whole person, mentally, physically and emotionally.
The treatment incorporates deep thumb and finger pressures, friction as well as soothing strokes and laying of hands. Indian head massage concentrates on the areas most vulnerable to stress and tension.
Physical benefits
- Fibrous adhesions can be broken down
- Dispersal of toxins from the muscles
- Relief from chronic neck and shoulder stiffness
- Improved circulation of blood in the muscles, increasing oxygen to the brain
- Promotion of hair growth
Relief from
- Eyestrain and tension headaches
- Tinitus
- Temporo-mandibular joint tension, caused by grinding of teeth
- Sinusitis
- Migraine
- Nightmares
- Insomnia and disturbed sleep
Mental benefits
- A sense of calmness, peace and tranquillity
- Release of anxiety and stress
- Relief from depression
- Increased concentration
- Clear thinking
What happens during an Indian head massage treatment?
An initial medical consultation is carried out to discover any reason why the treatment should be adapted or avoided.
During the treatment the client may either be sitting in a chair or lying on the treatment couch. Clothing from the upper body will have to be removed but modesty will be preserved by towels.