What is Indian Head Massage?
Indian Head Massage springs from a rich tradition. Massage has always played an important part in Indian life, featuring in the earliest Ayurvedic texts from nearly 4000 years ago.
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Originally head massage was performed by the women in the family to care for their hair and also practiced by barbers offering 'champi' (Head Massage). Our word 'shampoo' comes from the same word.
Is this for Me?
The Head, Neck and Shoulders are important energy centres within your body. If you are feeling stressed or angry, tension builds up in the muscles in these areas.
Indian Head Massage works with a firm but gentle rhythm to release blockages and unknot tense muscles. The effect is not just physical, however: the treatment is calming for the spirit and promotes relaxation while relieving stress.
What else can it help?
In addition to easing headaches and stress, it can help with many other conditions, such as alleviating scalp and hair problems, aiding localised blood and lymphatic circulation, relieving eye strain, boosting the immune system, relieving muscle tension and helping to restore joint movement.
What to expect from a Indian Head Massage Session?
The beauty of head massage is that it can be done either through clothes (no oils used) or unclothed using oils chosen specifically for your skin type or condition.
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For both treatment types you will be seated in a special therapeutic chair, but the massage can also be performed laying down on a therapist bed if necessary. When using oils your upper body (above the bra line) will need to be uncovered and an adjustable towel will be provided for your comfort and modesty.
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The Massage works on the upper back, shoulders, arms, neck, scalp, face and ears with a variety of massage movements - effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading, lifting & rolling) and tapotement (cupping & champi) movements.
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A treatment will generally last between 30 - 45 mins. Each treatment will be discussed on booking and confirmed during discussions prior to treatment beginning.
How many Treatments will I need?
Like any complimentary or holistic therapy, it is entirely up to you.
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Babies in India receive daily massage, infants receive massage once or twice a week and from the age of six children are encouraged to share a massage with other family members.
So it is entirely up to you (and of course your budget).
Indian Head Massage and your Health
Unlike some complimentary therapies where almost anyone can receive a treatment there are some conditions known as Contra-indications that can mean that you cannot be treated or the massage can be adapted.
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A contra-indication can be:
General - affects the whole body or part of the body
Local - concentrated in one particular area
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General - if you have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions, then prior approval from your GP will be required:
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Diabetes
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Disorders of the nervous system eg Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease
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Epilepsy
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Cardiovascular conditions eg hypertension, thrombosis, embolism, angina, pacemaker (well managed high blood pressure may not be an issue)
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Treatment should not be given to anyone with:
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A high temperature
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During a migraine attack
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Over recent scar tissue (normally 6 months)
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Over any unexplained swelling
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Within the first 3 months of pregnancy
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A general infection ie viral, bacterial, fungal or infestation
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Local - These conditions can be open wounds or cuts, eczema, psoriasis, bruising, recent fractures or sunburn. Treatment may still be undertaken but may be adapted or areas avoided so inform your therapist on every occasion you receive a treatment if you are experiencing any of these conditions.