What Is Indian Head Massage?

How the IHM works

Many European spas and holistic health clinics offer Indian head massage. The practice focuses on the parts of the body that are most prone to tension and stress:

• scalp
• face
• neck
• arms
• shoulders
• upper back 

Indian head massage combines techniques to include various massage strokes and acupressure points. Treatment includes kneading and probing of the neck and shoulder areas. The scalp is then massaged, using squeezing, tapping, rubbing or prodding motions.

The therapist will also manipulate facial pressure points to relieve sinus pressure, increase alertness and stimulate circulation. A patient's ears may then be pressed and tugged, and their hair tousled.

Conditions IHM helps treat

Through a variety of massage movements, Indian head massage also restores joint motion and aids in the condition and health of hair resulting in improved hair growth.

Indian head massage is used by massage therapists to increase mental clarity and rejuvenate the person receiving the massage. Although treatments include massage of the back, arms, shoulders and neck, head massage and face massage make up the main parts of the treatment.

The massage therapist typically performs IHM through the clothes. As the technique is easy to apply over a blouse or shirt, Indian head massage is ideal for people who are modest or for less able bodied such as the elderly people, or those who have arthritis or a disability. Some treatments may include the use of special oils, which are also beneficial to hair growth.

Therapeutic and relaxing, Indian head massage is effective in treatment of stress-related ailments like migraines and headaches. It can be performed almost anywhere and requires less time than a body massage treatment, typically lasting about thirty to forty minutes.

More benefits of IHM

The benefits of Indian head massage include that it helps release of toxins from tense and knotted muscles, and improves oxygen flow to the brain. It also reduces jaw ache, stimulates lymphatic drainage and aids sleep. By stimulating the release of endorphins IHM also aids in reducing stress and anxiety, and alleviating mental tiredness. The treatment is especially effective in relieving tightness around the neck and shoulders.

Degree programs at massage therapy school can include Indian head massage as part of the curriculum. Courses may include additional study in the areas of chakra energy and balancing techniques as well as contra-indications and stress management. 

Are you looking to study massage therapy in south Florida? Contact the Acupuncture and Massage College, where you can complete a program in less than a year