Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage (IHM) is a massage that actually includes the upper back, neck, shoulder, head and face.  It can be given equally effectively with or without oils, does not require you to undress and can pretty much be done anywhere on men or women.

Traditionally, Indian women started giving head massage to other female members of the family over a thousand years ago to encourage beautiful hair condition and as a means of bonding and is now commonly part of everyday life in some cultures. IHM was introduced to the western world because of the enormous benefits that help undo some of the negative effects of our poor diets, pollution, bad posture and stressful lifestyles.

Benefits

IHM is an excellent stress-buster and provides immediate whole body relaxation. It eases muscle tension and knots,  is soothing, calming and comforting and promotes more restful sleep.

Regular head massage has numerous health benefits - it stimulates the lymphatic system, releasing toxins from the body and boosting the immune system. It promotes healthier hair growth, reduces hair loss and eases dandruff and psoriasis. It can relieve minor disorders such as headache and migraine, earache, eyestrain, tinnitus, jawache and sinusitis

IHM is uplifting for the body, mind and spirit. It increases mental clarity, is helpful for depression and increases blood circulation to the head which in turn results in enhanced senses, improved memory and concentration.

The simple act of positive touch is also extremely beneficial, releasing sleep-inducing, pain-relieving and feel-good hormones.

Pregnant or just had a baby?

For women who are pregnant or recently had a baby, IHM can be particularly helpful to feel grounded at a time where your hormones are all over the place and your body feels out of control. It is great for alleviating the aches and pains caused by the strains of pregnancy, breastfeeding and newborn care. The relaxing effect can help to contribute towards a better pregnancy and birth experience and in turn relaxes your baby!

Do you work in an office?

If you think there are several of you in the office who would benefit from IHM, I may be able to come to the office to give a shorter version of the massage to a few people at lunchtimes at a reduced price. Call to find out if this is available where you work.

Details

Massages usually last 30 minutes, although shorter or longer versions can be negotiated.

Cost: From £15-25, variable according to length and your location.

Given in your own home. You do not need any special equipment, just a comfortable armless chair and a room with no distractions at the time of the massage.

Not suitable if you have or have recently had:

• particularly high or low blood pressure
• osteoporosis
• arthritis
• any degenerative spinal disorders
• recent injury, accident or surgery to the head, neck or shoulder areas
•  treatment for cancer, HIV/AIDS, other serious conditions
• infections, coughs/colds, fever
• food poisoning
• weeping eczema on the areas to be massaged

I hold a diploma in Indian Head Massage, taken through DHARMA workshops and am a member of the Guild of Professional Therapists, with whom I am fully insured to undertake IHM.

Please seek advice from your GP if you unsure about any conditions that may be unsuitable.