INDIAN HEAD
MASSAGE
ASSISGNMENT.
Explain the organisation’s service times for Indian head massage and the
importance of completing the service in a commercially viable time
An Indian head massage should take 45 minutes, if the treatment is completed under the
viable time, the client will feel like they’re not getting their money’s worth or the best out of
the treatment, it also prevents times wastage and ensures that an effective appointment is in
place. For each treatment there is a calculated estimate of how long each one should take
so that the charged price is correct and profitable. The therapist should be able to complete
the treatment in the agreed time to prevent; time wastage in the salon, disruption to the
client’s schedule, the client is not left waiting and an effective appointment system is in
place.
Explain how to visually assess the physical characteristics
Since every client will have different physical characteristics it’s important that the therapist is able
to adapt the Indian Head massage. The massage may need to be varied based on the client’s body
size, muscle tone, age, and hair characteristics. It’s highly likely that many clients could need a
change in the treatment due to their physical and or health related situation.
Pregnant client, in this case it’s suggested to avoid the Indian head massage in the very first
trimester until the pregnancy is established. In the first trimester the client is more likely to feel
nauseous and sick. Afterwards the treatment can be performed with no problems. It’s often a
popular choice since the client is able to sit down comfortably and not in a particular position. Some
may still feel dizzy so care should be taken. It may be necessary for clients with high blood pressure
to have a GP referral.
Disabled client, the therapist should have knowledge on the condition and the nature of it. In the
case of the client being in a wheelchair it may be easier and comfortable to treat them while they’re
sitting in it. An Indian Head massage is portable and can be carried out with no complications. It will
help to have the consultation take place at eye level. It’s vital to not come across as patronising since
many clients may be fit and able and should be treated with respect.
Elderly client, It’s important the therapist remembers and knows to, make sure the client is warm
enough in the treatment, the client may experience a sudden drop in blood pressure and need to be
helped by keeping the client balanced and avoiding falls, not carry out a deep massage due to a
decreased reaction time, sensitivity to pain, thinning of skin and blood vessels. There me be a loss of
hearing and vision, the bones may not be as strong and flexible, the muscle tone may be decreased
and the joints may be worn so care should be taken when applying pressure, skin could be thinner,
looser and frail and Circulation could be not as efficient particularly if the client is inactive.
Clients without hair, the method for massaging the scalp will be slightly different. Obviously the
technique of manipulation and or tugging of the hair cannot take place. Regardless of this the scalp
muscles are still able to develop tension because of their attachment.
Explain how to assess posture and skeletal conditions that may be present and how
to adapt and change the massage routine
It’s important to analyse the figure and posture of clients, before beginning any course of massage
because it will ensure that the treatment recommended will be the most effective for the clients and
their particular requirements. It will insure that the treatment chosen will not cause any harm or
discomfort. The client will not feel relaxed and comforted if he/she is wrongly positioned on the
massage bed. If the position is wrong the client will feel tense and so the therapist should be aware
of seeing signs of tension or the wrong position. It will help therapists to recognize any faults which
are not to be treated by them and may need to be referred to a doctor. When using more than one
form of treatment it will influence the therapist’s decision about which treatment’s to use. It will
ensure that treatment is not given unnecessarily if there are faults caused by some postural
problems.
The initial figure assessment of clients is a visual one. This will show any problems they may have
with their range of movement and even when they are fully dressed it is easy to access figure shape.
The benefits of good posture allow the breathing to be deep and full. The chest is not contracted
and so the airflow is not limited. The organs function better when they are not compressed and the
even distribution of the body weight ensures that the body does not tire as much since certain
muscles become relaxed and don’t need to work as much. If the bones are correctly positioned
there will be no postural defects. As well as all this the figure looks better when the posture is right.
Explain how to recognise different scalp conditions and hair types
One scalp condition is Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that occurs when the skin grows
too rapidly, Scalp psoriasis can cause flushed, flaky, and itchy patches of skin to appear. The
skin can be dry, and the surface can crack and bleed. Similar to psoriasis, Seborrheic
dermatitis is a type of eczema.
The condition appears with dry, flushed skin and greasy yellow or white scales that often
occur near the ears or around the hairline. Also androgenetic alopecia is a common cause of
hair loss. In males, common symptoms include a receding hairline and balding at the crown.
This balding can progress and lead to partial or complete baldness. In females, the condition
leads to thinning of the hair over the entire scalp. Sebaceous cyst is a round nodular lesion
that has a smooth, shiny surface that develops from the sebaceous gland. They commonly
appear on the face, neck, scalp and back. They are located in the dermis and are different in
size from 5 to 50 mm. Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory fairly common disorder of the
sebaceous glands that results in the overproduction of sebum. The face, chest and back are
affected and symptoms include comedones, papules and in more serious cases cysts and
scars. It happens mostly at puberty brought on essentially by androgen and stays for a long
period of time. Rosacea is an inflammatory disease of the face, making it look excessively
red. The condition begins slowly with flushed cheeks and nose and as it advances it could
become pustular. It can be worsened by hot spicy food, hot drinks, alcohol, menopause and
stress. A greasy scalp is caused by too much sebum being secreted by the sebaceous glands
in the scalp resulting in the hair looking lank and greasy, particularly at the roots. The
condition will improve with the use of a medicated shampoo, also advise the client not the
rub the scalp too vigorously when shampooing as this will stimulate oil production. When
applying the Indian head massage, a lighter pressure would be less likely to stimulate the
scalp to produce more oil. A dry scalp could easily be mistaken for dandruff as it will have
flaky skin, the scalp may also look whiter than a healthier pink scalp. Ask the client if they
suffer from dry skin on other areas of the body to ascertain if the problems are related to
lack of sebum. A moisturising and nourishing conditioner will benefit this condition. The
Indian head massage will also encourage the scalp to secrete more sebum which will help to
improve the condition. Dandruff is caused by over production of skin cells which appear as
white flakes and will be visible on the client’s scalp and clothing. A client with dandruff may
also have an oiler scalp. The condition will improve with the use of an anti-dandruff
shampoo and conditioner
Explain the types of Indian head massage oils available and their beneficial
properties e.g. mustard, coconut, olive and sesame
There are sevreral different types of massage oils. Almond oil is high in nutrients
(unsaturated fatty acids, protein, vitamins A, B, D and E). Almond is a good conditioner and
softens, adds moisture and protects hair. Works best for normal skin conditions and normal
to dry hair condition. Coconut oil is popular and commonly used in Indian Head massages
and used widely in southern parts of India particularly in spring. Effective for dry, brittle,
lifeless hair. Mustard oil one of the most popular oils used in north-west India and is found
in Indian grocery stores. Because it creates a warm sensation it’s used particularly in the
winter months. Effective for dry scalp if combined with small amount of turmeric powder.
Olive oil is popular in the Western world; it has high levels of unsaturated fatty acids making
it good moisturiser oil. Mixed together with almond oil since original smell is strong. Helpful
for dry skin and hair. Sesame oil is popular base oil in the Western part of India. High in
minerals like iron, calcium and phosphorus. Nourishing and protects hair. Effective for dry
skin and popular in India in the summer especially since it provides some protection from
sun rays.
Explain the key aspects of the origins and traditions of Indian head massage
Indian Head Massage has been formed through the ancient Ayurvedic healing system. The
Ayurvedic system originates from ancient India and has been passed down from generation
to generation. The massage is a form of holistic therapy that combines the mind, body and
spirit. These treatments were performed in India for over thousands of years, intended to
keep hair at its best condition and beautiful by stimulating an increase in the blood flow to
the scalp. Through this process the hair roots became nourished.
Elements used in the process include a number of herbs, spices and oils that have been
known to have healing properties. The massage can also help to revive a number of scalp
conditions. At first the process was entirely focused on massage of the head and hair
follicles but over time it has developed to include massage and manipulation of the face,
scalp, neck, upper back, shoulders, and upper arms as it’s seen performed in modern
therapies of Indian Head massage. It was originally developed and adapted by women who
practised the techniques in their family and friends of all ages. Along with the physical and
physiological benefits integrated with the treatment it also gave the added bonus of
improving bonds. As went on hairdressers and barbers began to provide Indian Head
massages to male and female customers as it complimented their main service. The
popularity of champissage has grown and increased and is now widely available as a service
throughout India and increasingly in the UK.
Summarise the basic principles of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is believed to be the world’s oldest Indian healing system. Ayurveda as a word
originating from Sanskrit meaning the science of life and longevity. Ayurveda is a mean of
following a healthy lifestyle focused on creating a balance in the body, mind and spirit
resulting in a longer life.
Ayurveda advises and promotes using massage alongside with a diet, herbs, cleansing, yoga,
meditation and exercise. The main direction and outcome of Ayurveda is towards up
keeping and advancing positive health, beauty and long life. An early Ayurveda text going
back 4,000 years includes massage and the principal of holistic treatments which stated
health as a result of harmony with our selves. The Ayur-Veda, a known sacred book among
Hindus, estimated to be written around 1800 BC. The book includes massage as an
Ayurveda principle.
Health seen from the Ayurveda view is physical, emotional and spiritual well-being and that
health is up kept by balancing three subtle life forces of doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Vata is the driving force which relates mostly to the nervous system and the body’s energies
centre. Pitta is fire and relates to metabolism, digestion enzymes, acid and bile. Kapha is
water related in the mucous membranes phlegm, moisture, fat and lymphatics.
Explain the principles of body, mind and spiritual wellness
Wellness involves the application of seven areas involved in health and disease. The degree
of impact any one area has on a particular health problem but, they will all have some
degree of involvement in the cause, effect, and alleviation of health problems. The following
is a brief description of the seven components of wellness:
Physical good health involves appropriate exercise, body composition, and care of the body.
Your body is your temple so, treat is accordingly. Mental it is important to recognize
patterns of thinking, believing, and feeling as well as behavioral factors in all health
problems. What you think, feel, and believe dictates what happens to you.
Spiritual everything happens for a reason and there is an important lesson in all things no
matter how severe the problem. Bad cannot exist without good. It is vital to look for the
good in all illness.
Explain the principles and practices of marma (pressure) points application (of
which 37 are in the treatment area) and their purpose
Marma points are an essential aspect of Ayurveda; they are subtle pressure points, similar
to points used in acupressure that stimulate the life force or pranic flow. The marmas are
anatomical places on the body, mainly composed of flesh and bones.
There are total of 107 marmas in the body; 37 in the head and neck, 12 in the front of the
body, 22 in the upper limbs, 14 in the back of the body and 22 in lower limbs.
Mama points are sensitive and are measured using finger widths, referred to as anguli. The
points are measured using the finger width of the person being treated and not the
therapist. Each person is differently structured so the location of marma’s depends on the
person own size and proportion. The marma can be one to eight fingers in widths and relate
to regions of the body and not a point.
In an Indian head massage, the marmas may be used to, treat the pranas, treat a specific
organ or system of the body and t.reat a specific dosha imbalance.
Explain the principles and practices of the 7 primary chakras and their importance in
relation to the Indian head massage treatment
An Indian Head Massage begins by grounding or levelling, this is a process carried out to balance the
body chakras. Chakras are unseen, non-physical energy centres around the body, they are placed an
inch away from the physical body. When energy levels are blocked off because off ongoing stress,
negative energy become stored in the chakra and creates an imbalanced. The can cause physical or
mental illness. If one energy centre becomes imbalanced it can affect others. Massage aids in
restoring this balance in the chakras and allowing energy to flow freely.
To open the energy channels and help to begin healing the therapist can ground the client. Chakras
are vital in recreating balance they are local points of energies in suitable bodies. By directing the
hands along the axis of the chakras energy can be arranged and returned to harmony. Working with
subtle energy of the chakras energy can grow be strengthened or decreased as necessary to create a
healthy balance.
Indian Head massage works on restoring the balance of the higher chakras which are the throat,
brow and crown. The master chakra is the crown chakra and can help to regain the energy and
balance out the other chakras. When the treatment comes to end the therapist can feel tired. Since
energy channels are created during the massage they be taken and passed from therapist to client.
Chakras are associated with various colours and elements.
Red: The base chakra
Element: Earth
Connected to the earth, health and survival.
Orange: The base chakra
Element: Water
Relates to relationships, especially sexual.
Yellow: The solar plexus chakra
Element: Fire
Connected to personal harmony and energy.
Green: The heart chakra
Element: Air
Relates to empathy to others.
Blue: The throat chakra
Element: Sound or ether
Connected to communication and expression.
Indigo: The brow chakra
Element: Light
Relates to inner vison.
White: The crown chakra
Element: Spirit
Connected with imagination and thought.
Explain how to adapt the Indian head massage sequence, depth and pressure to
suit different client physical characteristics, areas of the body and preferences
It’s important because the comfort of the client during the treatment helps in relaxing
and allowing more enjoyment from the treatment. It will also have better healing
effects on the body and mind if the client was feeling comfortable and relaxed. The
treatment last’s quite long so it’s important to support the client during the treatment.
Soothes the sinuses - as well as being great for headaches, Indian head massage is
a great way to reduce sinus trouble for when you have a cold. To put a stop to sinus
pain, simply massage the pressure points along your cheekbones.
Refreshes tired eyes we all spend too much time staring at screens nowadays, and
Indian head massage is one way to ease eye strain. Massaging around the eye and
into the temples loosens the muscles around your eye sockets and can help them
feel rejuvenated and refreshed also is A part of life across cultures. As humans are
social beings, touch is incredibly important, and when touch is given in a loving,
caring way the sensation is heightened. The bonding hormone oxytocin is released
when touch is given in a loving way. Human contact can reduce cortisol levels which
can lower blood pressure and reduce the heart rate resulting in reduced stress and
improved well-being and mood. It is also possible that regular touch can strengthen
our immune system. Touching of the hair, head and scalp are especially intoxicating
as there are specialised sensory neurons located at the base of the hair
follicles. These neurons can detect tiny movements and transmit a sensory
message to the brain causing feel good chemicals to be released. The head has
many nerve endings, trigger points, and acupuncture points. Throughout every
single day, our facial muscles are used for expressions, teeth grinding, talking, and
chewing creating tension in the head and neck area without us even realising it. To
receive a head and facial massage feels soothing and relaxing as we let go of the
tension that has built up.
Explain how own breathing techniques can enhance the effectiveness of the
treatment process
Deep breathing supports and enhances the goals of massage therapy as taught in
massage training school. Often called abdominal breathing or belly breathing, deep
breathing promotes blood flow, increases the effectiveness of the lymphatic
system, and supports organ detoxification. Moreover, abdominal brea thing lowers
your heart rate and blood pressure, and can be used at any time to decrease stress
and tension. Deep breathing promotes physical relaxation, the goal of every
massage client. Helping massage clients learn deep breathing techniques, such as
expanding the breath into the belly and chest, will help to relax the muscles and
bring a deeper sense of calm. If a client finds it difficult to apply these techniques,
practitioners may focus their massage on the chest and abdominal muscles to relax
this area. Like yawning, deep breathing is contagious. Practitioners may
demonstrate breathing through taking slow, deep breaths during the massage.
Breathing deeply and slowly is a successful method of relaxation; it can be effectively
combined with other relaxation techniques like using relaxing imagery meditation and
progressive muscular relaxation. The breathing should not be shallow and rapid but deep
and slow. The therapist should encourage the client to breathe in slowly through the nose
and out the mouth; you can see if this is done correctly by watching the stomach moving
out slightly. This helps the treatment to be more effective and is relaxing for the client.
Evaluate the advantages of Indian head massage
Evaluation is an essential part of a case study as it is only through feedback and evaluation
that a therapist can determine the effectiveness of the treatments performed and
ultimately measure their own professional development. Based on the feedback the
therapist can then work on making improvement in certain areas. One of the primary
benefits of Indian head massage is its ability to alleviate stress and tension. The treatment
provides a deep sense of relaxation, improving mental wellbeing. As a result, it can also help
to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Improvement in quality of sleep, working on the shoulders, neck, upper arms, scalp and face
affects the skin, muscles, blood vessels and lymphatics and can produce some of the
following effects: Dissipation of tension throughout the entire body. Relaxation of specific,
tense muscles. Indian Head Massage stimulates and improves lymphatic drainage and blood
flow to the neck thus helping to remove waste products from the body.
Explain the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of Indian head massage
treatments
It is important to evaluate so the clienet can get the most benefifical indead head massage
and it would allow the client to feel better by effecting their day to day life. Such as it
Relieves sleeplessness, restlessness and insomnia, these are often side-effects of stress and
Indian Head Massage will immediately relieve stress and promote relaxation by attacking
the physical symptoms, thus allowing for a deeper sense of wellbeing and relaxation and
opening your body to better rest. Renews energy levels. An Indian Head Massage works
with the Ayurvedic concept which goes beyond the limits of healing and places emphasis on
balance. Working on the chakras through Indian Massage has a powerful effect in bringing
the energy of the body back into balance.
Boosts memory capabilities, often we have short-term memory difficulties because
our brains are overloaded with disorganised thoughts, making it very difficult for us to
efficiently ‘log’ and collect thoughts and occurrences. Indian Head Massage slows us down,
sensual awareness takes over, thoughts quieten and awareness is brought to the forefront
Explain the lifestyle factors and changes that may be required to improve the
effectiveness of the treatment
Before the client is ready to get up advise them to rest for few minutes to allow the blood
circulation to return to normal.
To achieve the best results, it is advised for the following 24 hours avoid; stimulants as
caffeine and alcohol, heavy or spiced meals, strenuous exercise, drink plenty of water after,
rest and relaxation after treatment and wait 10 minutes after treatment before driving
And for several hours avoid shampooing the hair, particularly if treatment oils have been
used to maximize treatments effect. Homecare is the advice given to the client from the
therapist after the treatment has taken place. The consultation aims to offer advice for the
client, these can be changes to lifestyle through diet and or exercise for the client’s own
benefit.
To ensure the best results from the treatment and receive the maximum benefits the clients
can; increase their consumption of water, avoid smoking, relax and perform stress-relieving
techniques for example yoga and or meditation, exercise regularly and eat healthy
Following these conditions can help the client to have an improved sleep pattern, being
more alert, increase in energy levels, better mood, increased mobility in joints and a allround improved physical and mental health. The client can become more responsive to the
treatment and gain the most out of it.