Encourages desquamation of skin cells and increases sebum production, helping to moisturise hair and improve the skin’s elasticity and resistance to infection
Increases joint mobility and flexibility in shoulders, neck and arms by helping to free adhesions and break down scar tissue (as a result, it can improve range of motion in stiff joints and aid postural problems)
Reduces tension, stretches the tissues and increases flexibility in tense or overworked muscles and helps prevent stress-induced muscle spasm
Physical Benefits of Indian Head Massage Photo Gallery
Increases circulation of blood and lymph, improving delivery of nutrients and oxygen, speeding up waste removal and reducing swelling (oedema) caused by excess fluid in tissues
Improves nutrition to cells, helping to reduce hair loss, premature balding and greying
Improves circulation, helping to remove lactic acid from muscles, reducing aches and soreness
Decreases heart rate, lowers blood pressure and dilates blood vessels, helping them work more efficiently
Boosts the immune system through improved production and delivery of white blood cells
Relieves problems such as sinusitis and nasal congestion in the upper respiratory system
Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which reduces the effects of stress, facilitates sleep, reduces anxiety, slows heart rate, improves breathing, releases physical and mental tension and promotes feelings of calmness and well-being
Can stimulate or relax the nervous system, depending on goal of treatment and techniques used
Clears the mind and revitalises mental capacity, improving alertness, concentration and productivity stimulates the release of endorphins, which reduce pain and elevate the mood
Increases levels of hormones such as oxytocin, which have a positive effect on mood and behaviour, and balances the release of stress hormones from adrenal glands
Increases blood flow to digestive, urinary and reproductive systems, which receive a reduced blood supply in times of stress -this can relieve stress-related digestive
Disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, increase urinary output and elimination of waste and improve function of the reproductive organs.
Psychological benefits
Indian Head Massage:
Reduces stress and anxiety by relaxing the mind and body
Creates a feeling of well-being and enhanced self-esteem
Eases emotional trauma through
Relaxation – this can lead to an emotional release and occasionally tears.
Effects on subtle energy
Indian Head Massage also has a general ‘balancing’ effect, giving a sense of calmness and peace. It works on balancing the chakras and releases stagnant energy so the body can function more harmoniously. (See Chapter 2 for more information.)
