Nearly every ancient culture across the world has evolved its own technique, art and craft of massage. Historians speculate that it could have originated from how our ancestors needed to relax and get pain relief after extreme physical activity, whether on the battlefield, or the agricultural field. As the techniques evolved and became more specialized, they targeted different parts of the body for a specific effect. One such massage is the head massage.
The tradition of head massage is deeply embedded in cultures such as the Chinese, Japanese, Balinese, European and more. In the Indian context, Ayurvedic head massage is one of the best known and widely practiced.
Head Massage Basics and Benefits
Regular massage of the scalp with a good quality ayurvedic hair oil can become part of your self care routine. Most people complain that this is a luxury that they don’t have the time for in the midst of their busy schedules. Modern bathrooms are not designed to incorporate the oily mess created, and tiny urban apartments hardly have a separate space where you can indulge in a massage.
However, these are largely misconceptions. Head massage can be an hour long session, or you can complete it in five minutes.
The benefits of head massage include:
- Improved blood circulation in the scalp
- Renews the cells
- Better hair growth, volume and health
- Oils soften the hair and make it glossy
- Herb infused oils have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties
- Prevents dryness and flaking of scalp that lead to dandruff
- Eliminates itchiness and hair fall
- Most importantly, it provides great relaxation and promotes good sleep
- Enables mindfulness and being in the present moment
- Enhances the human bond and offers all the benefits of the human touch
Ayurvedic Head Massage
Known as Shirobhyanga in Ayurveda, the 3000 year old medicine system of ancient India, head massage is part of the holistic healing and wellness heritage in this tradition.
It is practiced to promote relaxation, mental and physical health and overall balancing of the different elements in the body. The practice is colloquially termed “champi” and as an aside, this is the origin of the English word “shampoo.” Ayurvedic head massage includes massaging the neck and shoulders.
The technique requires knowledge and practice. Use an Ayurvedic oil such as Navaratna Cool Oil which combines several essential oils, herbs and products such as camphor and eucalyptus that have cooling properties.
The first step in head massage is to apply the navratna massage oil generously to the scalp. Using the fingers, gently rub the oil into the hair roots and along the length of the hair. Once the oil is well spread, you can begin slowly but firmly kneading the scalp. This is followed by using the fingers to tap all over the head, neck and shoulders to increase circulation and release tension. After a few minutes, you can use your fingers to stretch the scalp and muscles, use circular motions to increase friction, and focus on certain areas such as the forehead or back of the skull.
Relax for a few minutes and allow the body to stabilize and calm down before washing your hair with a mild shampoo.
You can either give yourself a quick, daily head massage, or you can visit a qualified practitioner for a more elaborate session. Either way, you can avoid stress, migraine or stress-headache attacks and elevate your mood for the rest of the day. If you prefer to get your massage done at the end of the day, this is great for unwinding and to rest and restore the body after a stressful day.