Whether you’re looking forward to a day at the spa or are researching relaxation techniques that you can rely on at home, scalp massage is certain to crop up. Scalp, or head, massage has been used for thousands of years with its roots in Ayurveda making it an integral part of holistic medicine as well as a hugely therapeutic practice.
Unbeknown to most, the benefits of a scalp massage go far beyond the search for inner calm. Read on to discover just some of the rewards that can be reaped with a regular head massage.
As an important aspect of the central nervous system, the head (along with the spinal column and sacrum) can be massaged to help ease tension throughout the body.
By putting pressure on certain parts of the scalp, you can improve the circulation of blood in the head and neck, and lower blood pressure. As a result, you’ll be less stressed, more relaxed, and could even reduce pain.
The connection between scalp massage and hair growth is well established. Here Healthline shares just one of the studies that have consolidated the link:
“According to a small 2016 study, researchers concluded that regular scalp massages may lead to thicker hair. This study involved nine men who received a 4-minute scalp massage each day for 24 weeks. At the end of the study, it was found that the men had thicker hair than at the start. Additional research from 2019 supported these findings.”
Preventing hair loss is on the agenda for many, with both men and women exploring the treatments and techniques that can slow the thinning of hair and promote new growth. Adding daily scalp massage to your routine could provide the solution you’ve been searching for.
Tension headaches, and more specifically migraines, can impact your quality of life, especially if you’re unlucky enough to have them regularly. Migraines can be particularly debilitating, with disturbed vision, light sensitivity, nausea and vomiting common symptoms. Scalp massages could help you ease those troublesome symptoms.
When administered regularly, scalp massages can also be preventative, with many studies proving a reduction in intensity, duration and frequency thanks to a regular massage for sufferers of tension headaches.
You don’t have to spend a fortune on spa visits to enjoy regular scalp massages. With the right advice, you can massage your own scalp at home to realise the benefits mentioned above. Simply find a comfy place to sit and use your fingertips to apply light to medium pressure at various points. Make small, circular movements with your fingers, and continue for at least five minutes.
Natural oils can also be applied to recreate that spa experience at home, with lavender, peppermint, jojoba, coconut and sweet almond popular choices.
Don’t want to do it yourself? Try these top-rated scalp massagers and brushes for size.
