Amazing Head Massage Benefits For Headaches, Migraine And Stress
Head massage benefits – Head massage is very good. In addition to sensual pleasure, head massage can relieve headache symptoms, reduce stress, and possibly even promote hair growth.
And the best part? You can learn how to make it at home. Or you can see a massage therapist if you need a specific head massage.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of head massage, how to do it yourself, and what to expect from a professional head massage.
Benefits of Head Massage
Sara Monreal, licensed massage therapist and owner of Wayfare Wellness, says the benefits depend on the type of head massage you get.
For example, she offers or provides the cranial-sacral massage therapy. It is a gentle massage technique that targets the central nervous system of the head, spine and sacrum.
This type of head massage is often used:
- Release tension
- Ease migraine and headache pain
- Reduce stress
- Promote relaxation
However, Montreal notes that a less specific massage, such as one done at home, can help reduce stress and tension, improve scalp health, and increase circulation in the head and neck.
Here are some other benefits of head massage.
Promotes Hair Growth
If your hair is thinning or not as thick as it used to be, you may want to consider a scalp massage.
In a small 2016 study, participants experienced an increase in hair thickness after 24 weeks of daily scalp massage.
Lowers Blood Pressure
It’s no secret that a head massage can help relieve daytime stress and induce a sense of relaxation.
A 2016 study also found that head massage for 15 and 25 minutes reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in female participants.
The study authors believe this may be because head massage can promote blood circulation, which has a positive effect on blood vessels and relaxing neck muscles.
Reduces the symptoms of tension headaches.
A tension headache usually causes pain in the head and neck and behind the eyes. Muscle spasms often cause this type of headache.
The American Massage Therapy Association reports that head massage can help reduce the severity, duration, and frequency of tension headaches. This may be due to the relaxing effect of head massage on the neck muscles.
How to do head massage
The beauty of scalp massage is that you can do it yourself. All you need is your fingers. Massage oil is optional.
If you prefer, you can use a scalp massager instead of your fingers. This tool comes in the form of a rubber hand brush or massage tool. You can use the massage tool on the entire scalp just like you can on your fingers.
To get a scalp massage, follow these steps:
- Sit in a comfortable chair. If you use oil, be sure to wrap a towel around your neck and chair to catch any drips.
- Start with light to moderate pressure on your scalp with your fingers or a massage tool. If you use oil, dip your fingers in the oil and continue massaging.
- Apply to the scalp in small circular motions.
- Cover the entire head and massage for at least 5 minutes.
- The oil can be washed off with shampoo.
A head massage is also a great way to bond with your partner. Massage your scalp at home with these Monreal tips:
- Have your partner lie down or sit in a comfortable chair. If you are using essential oils, start with a small amount. Dip your fingers in the oil.
- Focus on giving your partner slow, light strokes on your partner’s head and making light circular movements on his head.
- Use your thumb to gently massage your neck.
View More: Infected Lip Piercing – Symptoms, Treatment And Preventions
What are the best oils used for head massage?
Although you can massage your scalp without oil, you can still enjoy the aroma and added benefits of using essential oils.
While you can use any oil you like, some essential oils work best for this relaxing massage.
“We like to use essential oils whenever possible,” says Montreal. “Two of our favorite essential oils for scalp massage are lavender oil and peppermint oil, but you can also opt for coconut oil if you prefer.”
If you want to use an oil to massage your scalp, jojoba oil or sweet almond oil are good choices because they won’t clog your pores, says Cathy Sudowski, MA, M.A. in Aromatherapy and a registered aromatherapist. .
A word of caution when using essential oils: Be sure to dilute the oil before applying it to the skin. To prevent irritation, mix a few drops of an essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before applying it to your scalp.
Before using essential oils on large areas of skin, you should also apply a patch to see how your skin reacts. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash your arms with a mild, unscented soap, then pat dry.
- Apply a few drops of diluted essential oil to a small patch of skin on your arm.
- Cover the area with a bandage and let it dry for 24 hours. If you have any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, burning, or discomfort, remove the bandage immediately and wash the affected area with soap and water. Stop using essential oils. If you do not experience any irritation within 24 hours, the essential oil is probably safe to use.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult the International Federation of Fragrance Professionals (IFPA) guidelines for pregnant women to avoid oils that may cause problems.
What to Expect from a Professional Head Massage?
Head massage is easy and very cheap. But sometimes you want to leave it to a professional.
If you’re interested in a professional head massage, there are a few things you should know before your appointment.
“When looking for a professional craniosacral massage, you can expect a very relaxing massage,” says Montreal. During the session, the massage therapist will focus on gentle movements of the scalp and neck.
They can also gently compress the skull and spinal cord to normalize the flow of cerebrospinal fluid into the central nervous system, Montreal says.
“With more normal flow, the fluid will help boost your body’s natural ability to heal itself,” he explains.
Montreal says a professional massage session can last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. “During the session, you’ll interact with your massage therapist to ensure your needs are met appropriately and effectively,” she says.
At a clinic in Monreal, a 45-minute craniosacral massage can cost around $60.
Depending on where you live, the exact price may vary. Check the price with the massage therapist before making the appointment.
The Bottom Line
Scalp massage offers many benefits, either with your fingers or with a professional.
Head massage can help relieve tension and stress. It can also relieve migraines or headaches, lower blood pressure, improve circulation in the head and neck, and promote hair growth.
Before using essential oils, make sure they are diluted and do a patch test before using on a large area of skin. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check the types of oils to avoid.