The Beauty Society

Indian Head Massage is a traditional, deeply relaxing head and scalp massage which helps to rebalance energies and promote physical and psychological well-being. It is also known by its modern, trademarked term of “Champissage” which derives its name from the Hindu word Champi, meaning head massage.

The treatment works on the upper body, back, neck, shoulders and head. Feelings of stress, anxiety or tension can cause problems such as stiffness in the neck and shoulders, eye strain or headaches.

Indian Head Massage, with its gentle but firm rhythms, can help unknot blockages and relieve this uncomfortable build up of tension.

History

It is based on the Ayurvedic system of healing, (the science of life), which has been practiced in India for thousands of years. Ancient Ayurvedic texts describe massage to be an important medical function and that it can not only “strengthen muscles and firm skin”, but also encourage the body’s own healing system. It still provides Indian families with relaxation and healing on a daily basis, as well as playing a part in rituals such as weddings and births, and even everyday events like a trip to the barber.

It was brought to the UK by an Indian gentleman by the name of Mr Maeda, who, whilst travelling in London, was disappointed to find that when he visited a British barber to have his hair cut, all he got was the hair-cut! In India he was used to receiving a head massage as part of the standard service provided by barbers. When he returned to India he learnt the head massaging skills, then later returned to the UK and taught the techniques that have now become known as "Indian Head Massage".

It was later found that the scalp, a sensitive area rich with nerve supply had immense holistic benefits and was largely untouched in most therapies, consequently the popularity of 'Indian Head Massage' treatments spread.

How does it work?

The aim of Indian head massage is to release the stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. Clients are fully clothed and sit in a massage chair for the treatment. The therapist uses a range of different movements including deep kneading and compression movements over the neck, shoulder and scalp areas. In addition, the therapist will also gently stimulate and stroke pressure points on the face.

After a treatment clients generally experience increased energy, alertness and a better ability to concentrate. Some experience tiredness, dizziness, an increased desire to urinate (as the body eliminates toxins and waste materials) or aching muscles. All of these side effects usually last for no more than a few hours. Indian head massage should, however, be avoided by those who have had recent surgery, a head or neck injury or a history of thrombosis
or embolism.

What is it good for?

Indian head massage is highly regarded for its effectiveness and results and may bring about:

• General feelings of wellbeing, calmness and relaxation
• Dispersal of toxins from tense, knotted muscles
• Improvements in blood circulation and lymphatic flow
• Improvements of joint mobility in the neck and shoulders
• Higher levels of alertness and concentration
• Assistance in the elimination of accumulated toxins and waste products

It is particularly good for reducing the effects of:

• Stress and tension
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Eyestrain
• Tinnitus and other ear problems
• Insomnia
• Neck and shoulder stiffness
• Sinusitis and congestion
• Hair loss/thinning
• Scalp tension
• Mental tiredness/anxiety/stress
• Migraine and sinusitis

Indian Head Massage can be used as a de-stressing programme for the whole body. It is an excellent relaxation treatment for people with little time to spare.