Indian Head Massage - Véro's  way

What is IHM?    The Benefits of IHM    What to expect    My own version of IHM    Contraindications

The practise of Indian Head Massage is believed to have originated hundreds of years ago in India where it has now long been an integral part of life. IHM was mostly exchanged by women to promote the growth of long and luxurious hair. They would routinely rub warm, richly scented oils into each other’s hair and scalp as a part of a normal beauty routine and men would often receive a head massage as part of their grooming at the barbers.

Narendra Mehta, an Indian osteopath and massage therapist, brought the technique to the West in the 1970s. Indian Head Massage was most welcomed as it filled a "gap" in the world of massage: most massage techniques in the West, including full body massage, did not include the neck and shoulders. Today, its practise has spread as it is widely recognised for its multiple benefits, including improved circulation and easing of tension and stress.

Based on ancient Ayurvedic healing techniques, IHM is a form of treatment that works on the muscular tissues of the scalp, neck, shoulders upper back, upper arms and face. IHM reaches all energy centres where tension accumulates in day to day living. This is done by stimulating lymphatic drainage which removes toxins and boots the immune system. A typical treatment includes both invigorating and soothing massage of the shoulders, neck, scalp and face.

Indian Head Massage is a very versatile form of massage which aims to promote a feeling of relaxation and mental serenity.

Indian Head Massage carries healing messages around the body and stimulates the body's self-healing mechanisms. It can help to reduce tension in muscles and improve the flow of blood to the brain.

In the context of the body's energy system, an Indian Head Massage will work to bring balance and harmony by working on the three higher Chakras. These are located at the throat, forehead (Third eye) and crown. The Chakras are widely described as etheric whirlpools of energy. 
Picture flowers with varying numbers of petals, situated at seven positions on the torso and head with the flowers at the front of the body and the stem going through the central spinal column. 
When the petals of the Chakras are spinning freely, the person is in a state of balance and harmony. By balancing the three higher chakras, Indian Head Massage serves to bring balance and harmony to the whole person.

The benefits of IHM

Indian head massage can be a powerful yet gentle preventive medicine in today's fast-paced lifestyle. It is deeply relaxing, and especially efficient at relieving physical side-effects of stress such as:

• Tension headaches
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Migraine
• Tight jaw
• Eye strain
• Stiff muscles
• Sinusitis

Indian Head Massage helps with blood circulation and lymph drainage. 
It aids in the elimination of accumulated toxins and waste products. This detoxifying effect helps boost the immune system. 
The vigorous scalp massage revitalizes circulation at the hair roots promoting healthy growth and texture of the hair.

The treatment is deeply calming and relaxing yet, most people report feeling more energised and alert after it. 

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What to expect

• One of the advantages of Indian Head Massage is that it is very "portable" as its practise does not require any specific equipment. The recipient can be seated on an office chair.
• Dress code
  The client remains fully dressed. As I choose not to use any oil, there is no need for any other equipment than a comfortable "kitchen" chair. I also prefer to perform the massage with the client sitting down (rather than lying down).
  While there is no need to remove your clothing (unless you are wearing a very thick scarf), it is however best to wear a loose cotton top to allow good access to your neck and shoulders. And maybe remove any big piece of jewellery.
• While you sit comfortably in a chair, I usually start by gently kneading and probing your back, neck and shoulder muscles. I then work slowly up to the head. Your scalp may be squeezed, rubbed, lightly tapped and your hair may be combed or tussled. I will also locate pressure points along your head and torso, as well as lightly tug or press your ears.
• Towards the end of the massage, the focus turns to the face, where I usually softly press acupressure points to stimulate circulation, increase awareness, relieve sinus pressure and resolve any energy blockage I might detect.

All the techniques are performed in a particular sequence. Depending on the client's individual needs, I might spend more time on a particular movement or area.

Sessions normally last 30 minutes. I charge 35 euros for one session (plus expenses if travelling).

Usually the client will enter into a dreamy state of mind and take a while to awaken when finished. A drink of fresh water is all that is needed after all that energy work to bring back the client to everyday awareness. Also, I recommend twenty minutes rest after the session for the benefits to be fully absorbed. Also, it is good to know that scientific research has shown that you don't have to have a treatment every day as the body can retain chemical changes from positive experiences for up to two weeks.

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Indian head massage is gentle, safe and non-invasive and just about anyone would benefit from a treatment.
It is suitable for children & adults of any age, whilst pregnant, and for the elderly and infirm. However, infants should not receive a IHM until their skull bones have fully developed and fused.

It is not recommended, if you have recently suffered a skull fracture or any other serious head injury. Also, as with all massage, if you have any doubts about any condition you might be suffering from and are being followed by a therapist, please consult that therapist before making an appointment.

At the initial session, a brief confidential consultation is carried out on your medical history in order to decide on the best course of treatment. Regular treatments are an opportunity to maintain and enhance your health. You might find that IHM is just what you need to relax your mind and take the time to focus on yourself.