Indian Head Massage Treatment

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Stephanie Powell ©                27/11/05        

Provide Indian Head Massage Treatment

Effects and Benefits

History of Indian Head Massage

The traditional art of Indian Head Massage is based on the ancient system of medicine known as Ayurveda, which has been practised in India for thousands of years.

The word ‘Ayurveda’ comes from Sanskirt and means ‘the science of life and longevity. The Ayurvedic approach to health is the balance of body, mind and spirit, and the promotion of long life.

Ayurveda teaches that there are five elements:

  • Ether (space)
  • Air
  • Fire
  • Water
  • Earth

These underline all living systems are constantly changing throughout life. When any of theses elements are imbalanced in the environment, they will have an influence on how an individual feels. The time of day and seasons are just two of the influences on these elements.

Eight important contra-indications to Indian Head Massage

Skin or scalp infections – Clients with this would be avoided because of the risk of cross-infection. Examples: scabies, conjunctivitis, herpes simplex, ringworm, pediculosis, folliculitis, impetigo and tinea capitis

Fever/high temperature – this is a contra-indication because of the risk of spreading infection as a result of the increased circulation. During fever, the body’s temperature rises as a result of infection.

Migraine – it is inadvisable to carry out treatment if client indicates the onset of an attack of migraine, because they may become nauseous or dizzy or experience visual disturb stances with sever headache and possible vomiting.

Acute infectious diseases – As a Therapist we would not perform an Indian Head Massage as acute infectious diseases are highly contagious. Examples: colds, flu, measles, tuberculosis and chicken pox.

Intoxication – It is unable to carry out a treatment while a client is under the influence of alcohol, as the increase of blood flow to the head could make them feel dizzy and nauseous.

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Require medical advice

Epilepsy – Caution is advised because of the complexity of this condition and the risk that deep relaxation or over stimulation could provoke a convulsion.

Sever circulatory disorders/heart conditions – Increase in circulation from the massage may overburden the heat and can increase this risk of thrombus or embolus, therefore medical advice should be needed. If medical advice indicates that massage is advisable, you would give a lighter massage of a shorter duration initially

Cancer – There is a risk of certain types of cancer spreading through the lymphatic system. It is always important to ...

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