Indian Head Massage History:

Indian Head Massage (IHM) is an ancient practice dating back over 1000 years in India, traditionally cherished within Indian families for its emphasis on head care to nurture hair and encourage growth. Notably, IHM was also embraced by barbers in India as part of their services. However, it was Narendra Mehta, who, despite being blind, pursued physiotherapy education in England in 1978.

Experiencing a void during full body massages where the head was neglected, he reminisced about the head massages ("champissage") he received since childhood. To bridge this gap, he journeyed back to India to delve into IHM studies, discovering the value of extending the massage to encompass the neck, shoulders, upper back, and arms. 

In 1981, he established a tent at the London Olympia during the 'Mind, Body and Spirit' exhibition, and his service garnered immense popularity, with people eagerly queuing up multiple times a day. Thanks to Narendra Mehta's efforts, IHM treatments evolved to include the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back, reaching broader audiences.

What are the benefits of Indian Head Massage?

Indian Head Massage offers a wide-ranging array of benefits that make it suitable for individuals of all ages, with only a few exceptions (which we will mention later on). Some of these benefits include:

• Overall relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from daily stresses. 
• Promotes hair growth.
• Eases tight muscles and stiffness, enhancing overall flexibility and comfort.
• Improves and increases blood circulation.
• Cultivates a balanced state of wellbeing, extending its positive effects to revitalise the spirit.

What happens during an Indian Head Massage session?

During an IHM session, the client remains comfortably seated and fully clothed throughout the 30-minute treatment. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who may prefer not to lie down, undress, or have limitations in sitting still for extended periods. The treatment itself offers flexibility, as it can be performed with or without the use of oils. For those interested in oil application, coconut oil is the preferred choice. However, it's important to note that oil is avoided for individuals with allergies, sensitivities, or those who are pregnant or nursing. The practitioner focuses on addressing key areas including the head, neck, shoulders, face, upper back, and arms. 

Who Can Perform Indian Head Massage in Ontario?

In Ontario, Indian Head Massage is typically offered by registered massage therapists who have received specialised training in this technique. These professionals undergo rigorous education and certification processes to ensure that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide safe and effective treatments. When seeking an Indian Head Massage in Kanata, Ottawa, or anywhere in Ontario, it's essential to look for practitioners who are registered with reputable massage therapy associations or regulatory bodies in the province. This ensures that the practitioner adheres to high standards of practice and ethics, prioritising your safety and well-being. By choosing a qualified and experienced massage therapist, you can enjoy the full benefits of Indian Head Massage while having peace of mind about the professionalism and expertise of the practitioner.

Can you receive an Indian Head Massage?

For a safe and beneficial experience, it's crucial to consider certain conditions before opting for an IHM session. While IHM offers numerous advantages, we do not recommend it for individuals with:

• Uncontrolled diabetes, unmanaged high or low blood pressure, or serious conditions such as cancer are advised to proceed with caution and seek a physician's approval before proceeding (a doctor's note is recommended). 
• If you've encountered a head, neck, or whiplash injury within the past six months, it's advisable to consult a physician before partaking in an IHM session. 
• Recent hemorrhages raise concerns as well, as a session might trigger a recurrence, warranting caution. 
• In cases of fever, it's best to prioritise your health and reschedule your session.
• Skin infections also call for postponement, ensuring the safety of both the individual and the practitioner.
• While IHM can be accommodated between migraines, it's advised to avoid sessions during an ongoing migraine episode.
• Individuals with varicose veins, phlebitis, or thrombosis are urged to seek alternatives, as IHM may not be suitable.
• Lastly, if head lice are present, it's recommended to wait until the issue is resolved before pursuing an IHM session.

By being mindful of these considerations, you can make the most of your IHM experience while prioritising your health and wellbeing.

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