What is Indian Head Massage

Indian head massage is an ancient complementary therapy, based on the ayurvedic system of healing that has been practiced in India over for over a thousand years. This gentle form of massage therapy is part of Indian family life. 

Part of the Hindu health care practice of Ayurveda, Indian head massage focuses on your head, neck and shoulders and was originally used to improve scalp and hair condition. It is a deep massage, using a variety of pressure and techniques, including circular massage strokes on your scalp, deep tissue work on your shoulders, and stretching the neck. 

This form of massage focuses on the three higher “chakras” – mind, body and spirit and as such hits your energy epicentre.

How will I benefit?

It doesn’t seem sufficient to say that a good Indian head massage will relax you. It’s more than this. It can make you feel detached and serene, leave you sighing and wordless, but also alert and clear-headed, alleviating brain-fog and stress.

This massage treatment offers all kinds of other benefits. It may relieve aches, pains and tension in your neck, back and shoulders and stimulating the hair follicles is said to improve the texture of your hair and encourage hair growth.

How does it work?

An Indian head massage stimulates blood flow, lymph and oxygen in your upper body, and therefore may relieve sinusitis, relieve stress and help you sleep better. And because it is said to help cure headaches (even migraine), eye strain and anxiety, some say an Indian head massage can help you to concentrate better at work.

The use of fragrant aromatherapy oils mixed enhances the experience. If you are having an authentic Ayurveda treatment, herbs may be mixed to balance your dosha or energy type.

What can I expect?

A complete Indian head massage will last 30 minutes. Your therapist will chat with you beforehand to get an idea of your lifestyle, any particular aches, pains or ailments you have. She may ask you if you are having any medical treatments or taking medicines, as this might affect which oils she uses, and what type of pressure and technique.

In an Indian head massage, you are likely to have oils rubbed into your scalp. You may be asked whether you have dry, greasy, normal hair so that the therapist can use an oil which will most improve your hair’s shine and texture. It’s worth mentioning, too, if you have dandruff, or thinning hair, as some oils are can help improve these conditions.

Be prepared for the fact that some of the massage will be quite firm – it can be quite an odd sensation to have your skull massaged, for example – but stick with it. You will feel really relaxed and serene afterwards. The results are worth it.