Indian Scalp Massage – More Than Just A Head Massage
Indian women have long known the secret to long, luxurious hair: a regular head massage with warm spices and oils gently but firmly massaged into the scalp. Many also say that regular massage removes gray hair. Sounds good? These days, people get head massages not only to add volume and oiliness to their hair, but also to make them feel better overall.
Relax your mind and reap the benefits of an Indian scalp massage.
The Hindi word for head massage is “champi,” and many people practice this “champissage” technique in conjunction with meditation, yoga, and other forms of relaxation. Whereas in the West massages traditionally focused only on the head, shoulders and back, in India the head was considered to be the first path to relaxation, so apparently it all makes sense.
The name, however, is a bit of a misnomer as the massage is not just concentrated on the head or scalp. It also targets the neck, shoulders, and face (some people refer to it as the “natural facelift”), relieving any muscle or tension-related issues that have built up in those areas.
Proponents of the technique, based on ancient Ayurvedic medicine, say that it can actually benefit other parts of the body as well and that, when used with certain oils, it can eliminate gray hair (see below). As the practitioner focuses on specific acupressure points in the aforementioned areas, it is claimed to improve a wide range of ailments throughout the body.
Benefits of Indian Scalp Massage
Indian head massage not only relieves stress, but can also “stimulate the body to heal itself and reduce the rate of progress of the prevailing condition,” according to Amarjeet Bhamra, president of the Indian Head Massage Institute.
Proponents of Indian scalp massage and followers of Bhamra say that this technique can:
Help promote an overall sense of relaxation and well-being.
Relieves tight, knotted muscles and other sites of tension in the body.
Help get rid of toxins in the body.
Improve circulation and make the lymphatic drainage system work more effectively.
Make you more alert and increase your ability to concentrate.
Helps with joints and other stiffness in the body.
Relieves headaches associated with muscle tension or stress.
Others say that it can help relieve specific ailments, although there is little scientific evidence that this is the case. Problems that they believe can be solved with this massage include:
insomnia
eyestrain
tinnitus
migraines
Condition of hair and skin
Depression
lethargy and boredom
gray hair
typical treatment
If you visit a medical spa for an Indian head massage, you don’t have to get naked. You can even get the massage sitting in a chair, which is why some people prefer this to more traditional massages. It also works well in a corporate environment for this reason.
A massage typically lasts 30-40 minutes and is followed by a short health consultation. Keep in mind that these massages are not substitutes for traditional medicine, and are commonly seen as a relaxation technique and not much more, although some people use them for hair growth.
While essential oils may be added to enhance treatment, if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or have a specific medical condition, please inform your doctor beforehand. Some oils are not recommended during pregnancy or for people with certain medical conditions.
Supposed benefits for hair
Indian scalp massage is sometimes used for people seeking benefits for their hair. In this specific circumstance, oils are used to moisturize the hair and keep it healthy. They include almond oil, gooseberry oil, sesame oil, mustard oil, coconut oil, neem oil, and more. Believers in the hair benefits of this massage believe that it can:
Strengthen the roots
Helps get rid of dandruff
Control psoriasis on the head
Make hair more shiny and lustrous overall.
It stops the graying process, if neem oil is used, and helps protect hair from sun damage.
Neem is an evergreen tree that grows mainly in India. An oil made from the pressed seeds and fruits of this abundant plant is said to have myriad benefits, including warding off insects, making cosmetics, and helping with rheumatic disorders. In Ayurvedic medicine, neem has traditionally been used in the treatment of everything from acne to leprosy.
Studies have shown that neem can cause problems when trying to conceive, or even an abortifacient effect, meaning it can cause a miscarriage. Products made with neem are generally thought to be safe for pregnant women and those trying to get pregnant, as long as some of the substance is consumed. Soaps, shampoos, etc. Neem facts are considered safe.
DIY massage
In general, Indian scalp massage is considered to have widespread benefits, the main one being that it relaxes and calms, relieving muscle tension and stress. It has been practiced for hundreds of years and in some countries is as common as a back massage in the United States and is often performed by family members who do not have specialized training.
If you want to try it out for yourself, there are many practitioners who offer variations of the massage, for a usually hefty fee. On the other hand, you might want to invest in a family-size bottle of inexpensive coconut oil-based conditioner and ask a friend to scrub your head for an hour.
Choose a massage oil you like, then have them start at the neck, using circular motions with their fingertips while applying light pressure up and down. Move your fingers to the center of the head and do the same, working towards the forehead. Then ask them to place their thumbs on either side of their head next to their ears and move them gently but firmly in concentric circles.
Finally, ask them to massage your entire head, going down to your head and shoulders. Ask them to focus on areas that feel tense or tight; tell your partner what feels best and be their guide. As long as they are gentle and listen to you, you can’t go wrong.
Having a massage at least twice a week will produce the best long-term results. And remember, it will be your turn to give a massage next time, so take careful notes…