What is it? Where does it come from and why is it beneficial?
As the name suggests, Indian Head massage has its origins in India. Mention of it can be found in old Ayurvedic texts. It is a practice that is about 1000 years old and is thought to have emerged because women of India, even today, use different oils to maintain their long hair in good, healthy condition. However, it is not just a beauty practice. Aside from the cosmetic value of Indian head massage, there are an infinite number of other benefits. We need to look at Chinese Medicine to find out which ones.
In Chinese Medicine it is believed that there are a series of meridians running through the body. These meridians, grouped into yin and yang, are believed to be like channels that carry the flow of life – the Qi or Chi, or vital life force, throughout the entire body. Each meridian passes through and represents a major organ. It is believed that a good, unobstructed supply of vital life force is essential to avoid disease in any particular area of the body.
The meridians in the body flow from head to toe, but they all get accumulated in the areas surrounding the neck, shoulders, head and face. For this very reason, an Indian head massage focuses on these areas; seeking to release any or all tensions that may cause a blockage in the flow of Qi.
As far as massages go, it is very beneficial for people who suffer from headaches, curvatures in the neck, stress and tension in the shoulders and tired eyes. However, at a deeper level, it is very beneficial for anyone suffering from any kind of lack of energy within the body.
Since all meridian reflex points can be found in the head, neck, face and shoulders, something as simple as massaging the head can be sufficient to stimulate the main internal organs and induce wellness.
The massage techniques for an Indian Head Massage are quite strong. It is not a gentle massage although it is extremely relaxing and very invigorating. People often feel light headed but energised after a treatment.
Why not coming down and trying out our Indian Head Massage in the Gran Hotel Elba in Estepona and forget about the rest of the world for 30 minutes?
Author: Venerina Conti – Spa Manager – Gran Hotel Elba Estepona & Thalasso Spa.