Swedish massage

Nicola Davis is a member of Embody Register of Professional Therapists and has an ITEC Diploma in Indian Head Massage, Swedish Massage and Reflexology.

Skin

With regular massage, your skin will improve in texture and colour due to the increase in blood circulation.  You will find that the added moisture provided by massage oil will soften your skin and at the same time rough skin cells will be massaged away.  This increase in suppleness will reduce the risk of bacterial infection, which can enter dry and cracked skin.

Muscles

Increased blood supply to and from muscles, increases their nutrition to maintain elasticity and tone and prevents the build up of toxins like lactic acid, returning them to the circulation for recycling.  This is especially important before and after exercise to keep muscles in tip-top condition and reduce aches and pains.  Massage of the abdominal muscles stimulates digestion and can help prevent constipation.

Joints 

Massage of the muscles, which work on different joints, will help to improve joint mobility, which can be especially useful in the case of osteoarthritis.

Nerves 

Increased circulation and stimulation of the nervous system can either have a stimulating or soothing effect depending on the type of massage.  Relaxing massage eases the effects of stress and tension, inducing sleep and a sense of well-being. Stimulating massage can lead to a sense of invigoration and refreshment.

Indian head massage

Indian Head Massage is a treatment that has evolved from traditional techniques that have been practised in India as part of a family ritual for thousands of years.

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 Sanskrit 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 recommends the use of massage together with diet, herbs, cleansing, yoga, meditation and exercise.

The belief is that massage preserves the body’s life force and energy and is the most powerful way of relaxing and rejuvenating the body.

Indian Head Massage was originally designed for use on the head.  Today, it is no longer confined only to the head area and has been Westernised to include other parts of the body vulnerable to stress, such as the shoulders, upper arms and neck. 

It is important to realize that there is an integral relationship between the head, neck, shoulders and upper arms and by incorporating these parts, the treatment becomes more of a stress management treatment, rather than a treatment designed to stimulate the head and improve the hair growth and condition.  Although the techniques are applied to the upper part of the body only (shoulders, upper arms, neck and head), collectively they represent a de-stressing programme for the whole body.

Clients seeking relief from stress and tension often find Indian Head Massage a convenient form of treatment, as there is no need to undress and it is quick and effective in terms of results.   Lunchtime appoints available.  Clients with special needs, (e.g. a heavily pregnant client or a client in a wheelchair) may receive treatment with the minimum fuss.

 Oils Used in Indian Head Massage

The use of oil is optional when massaging the scalp.  Oil that is applied to the head is absorbed into the roots of the hair which are connected with nerve fibres leading to the brain.  Applying oil to the head helps to strengthen the hair and remove dryness and by relaxing the muscles and nerves of the head, fatigue is eliminated, leaving the recipient feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Traditionally, oils such as sesame, coconut, olive, mustard and almond have been used by Indian women as part of their grooming ritual to keep their hair in good condition.  However, care should be taken to ensure the oils are suitable for each individual client.

In order to maximise the benefits of Indian Head Massage, it is important for clients to receive regular treatment.

 Benefits of regular treatment include:-

• Improvement in hair condition

• Reduction in stress levels

• Increased energy levels

• A general sense of well being

• Improved sleep patterns

• Improvement in circulation