Holistic Therapies and Massage
Indian Head and Swedish Massage
Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage is a relaxing treatment which, as the name suggests, concentrates on massaging the head. Head and scalp massage can be used alongside simple meditative techniques to provide a simple and effective way to relax.
A Brief History of Indian Head Massage
The Hindi word for head massage is "Champi" and aspects of the treatment have a long tradition in Indian families. Mothers would stroke their daughter's hair to promote its growth and health.
How does Indian Head Massage work?
The treatments involves massage, shiatsu and acupressure techniques on upper back, shoulders, arms/hands, neck, scalp and face. This relaxes tense areas but, at the same time, helps to rebalance the energy, clearing any areas of negativity.
What is Indian Head Massage used for?
Indian Head massage may bring about:
- General feeling of wellbeing, calmness and relaxation
- Dispersal of toxins from tense, knotted muscles
- Stimulation and improvement of circulatory and lymphatic systems
- Improvement of joint mobility
- Higher levels of alertness and concentration
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most commonly offered and best known type of massage. It was developed by a Swedish physiologist, Henri Peter Ling at the University of Stockholm in 1812. It uses a firm but gentle pressue to improve the circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility and create relaxation.
Swedish massage employs five different movements:
The five basic massage strokes associated with traditional Swedish massage are:
- effleurage (gliding strokes)
- petrissage (kneading and compression strokes)
- friction (deep circular rubbing)
- tapotement (percussion tapping, pounding)
- vibration (very fine, rapid shaking)
The therapist generally uses massage oil to facilitate making long, smooth strokes over the body. Swedish massage is done with the person covered by a sheet, a technique called "draping". One part of the body uncovered, massaged, and then covered up before moving on to another part of the body.