A head massage is a deep-style massage that focuses on reducing stress and easing tension in the head, neck and shoulders. A head, neck and shoulder massage may ease symptoms of headaches, boost brain activity and even promote hair growth.
Read on to learn about the benefits of a head massage and what to expect from a professional head massage.
Therapists use various head massage techniques to stimulate blood vessels and nerves, including:
Although you can enjoy a relaxing head massage without oil, some people may opt for the aroma and added benefits of using essential oils during treatment. Massaging the scalp with diluted essential oils such as lavender, jojoba or peppermint oil not only promotes relaxation but also moisturises and cools the scalp. Sweet almond oil is another excellent choice because it rejuvenates hair follicles without clogging the pores.
A professional head massage usually lasts approximately 45-60 minutes and aims to return your body to balance.
Head massage therapy has many benefits, including:
There is increasing evidence that head massage not only helps combat stress levels and reduce depression but also boosts brain activity.
Firstly, a head massage stimulates the release of “happy” hormones (serotonin, dopamine and endorphins) and decreases the stress hormones released from the brain to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Recent studies have shown that a good head massage stimulates the left side of the brain, which is most active when a person is happy, pleased or excited.
Secondly, tense neck and shoulder muscles limit blood flow to the brain, which can negatively affect concentration and memory. Loosening them with head massage therapy removes that blockage.
Better circulation increases blood oxygen, helping blood vessels carry more nutrients to the head and neck and remove toxins. That improves brain clarity, focus and cognitive functions.
ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) is an uncontrolled experience characterised by a tingling sensation on the scalp, back of the neck and upper spine in response to various audio or visual stimuli. People that have experienced ASMR describe it as euphoric, pleasurable and even sleep-inducing. Think of that relaxing feeling you get when a hairdresser washes your hair slowly, massaging your scalp.
In recent years, ASMR videos have grown increasingly popular on the internet, while some spas and massage therapists have started to offer ASMR massage to promote relaxation.
ASMR head massage is more diverse and even experimental compared to other massage therapies.
Your massage therapist will most likely start by applying selected oils to your face, neck and shoulders with relaxing soft music playing in the background.
During the session, they may choose to focus on your earlobes, nose or temples, gently pull your hair or even whisper to you in another language.
ASMR scalp massage aims to stimulate all your senses, reduce tension in your body and get you into a deep state of relaxation.
Traditional Indian head massage (Champissage) is an ancient practice that has been used in India for over 2000 years. It finds its origin in Ayurveda, an Indian alternative medicine that believes in the mind-body connection. That is why Indian head massage not only improves physical well-being but also mental and emotional wellness.
The ayurvedic head massage focuses on massaging acupressure points along the head, neck and shoulders, using circular movements to improve hair and scalp condition.
Indian head massage also relieves fatigue, insomnia and sinusitis. The experience is deeply calming, leaving you with a feeling of increased energy, focus and rejuvenation.
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