What is Indian Head Massage (IHM)?
Indian Head Massage or Shiro-Abhyanga has been an integral part of Indian family life for thousands of years and it is a part of the ancient Ayurvedic medicinal system from India. Shiro means "mind, head and neck" and Abhyanga means "therapeutic massage".
Ayurveda (Ayu = age, life, longevity; r = relating to; veda = knowledge, wisdom, science) is prevention oriented and is the most ancient complete system of health care in the world. At the heart of Ayurveda lies the understanding that everything is one: that everything exists in relation to something else and not in isolation. It teaches that mind affects the body and vice versa, that thought procesees have physical effects, and that disorders of the body cause psychological problems too. The techniques used in Indian Head Massage, for maintaining health and wellness, have been handed down over the generations. Shiro-Abhyanga was originally brought to the West in the 1970s by different spiritual guides from India.
Indian Head Massage is a safe, simple yet very effective therapy. It is ideal for shy clients as it is a non-invasive and fully clothed therapy.
What are the benefits of Indian head massage?
Indian Head Massage is used to reduce stress and fatigue, increase mental clarity and to relax and rejuvenate. A lot of people are carrying the world on their shoulders and this is where stress, tension and frustration accumulate before manisfesting as headache, stiffness, shoulder and neck pains.
The benefits of Indian Head Massage include:
- Releasing of tension
- Improving sleep
- Increased wellbeing
- Helping relaxation
Indian Head Massage is a stress-busting therapy. IHM does not treat specific ailments, but treats the whole person and has been found particularly beneficial supporting clients suffering from aches and pains such as aching shoulders, tight necks etc.
What happens during a treatment?
During the consultation of your first visit, you will be required to give your personal details, medical history and lifestyle information.
For the whole duration of the treatment you remain fully clothed and you will be seated on a low-back chair. The treatment includes the upper back, shoulders, arms, hands, neck, scalp, ears and face. A variety of massage movements are used to relieve tension. If you wish, oils can be used for the scalp and face massage. Chakras are also balanced at the end of the treatment.
The only thing you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the treatment.
