How to Do a Head Massage the Right Way to Relieve Stress

"Massage is not just a luxury. It's a way to a healthier, happier life."

Once you step into the world of massages you realise what you've been missing out on. There are so many different kinds of massages, using different techniques or materials. Some target specific trouble spots or conditions, and that's how I ended up getting my first head massage. I had gone in expecting to relieve the tightness in my neck, but I came back feeling lighter, more relaxed and of course, ache-free!

But this was because the massage was done by a professional who knew what she was doing. The wrong kind of massage can have the complete opposite effect and you don't want that! There are quite a few factors that go into a proper head massage, which you need to know whether you're giving one or receiving one. So, here's an essential guide on how to do a head massage the right way.

1. Set the Right Environment

The first step is to set the proper environment.

Make sure the giver and recipient of the massage both have their phones turned off or put away.

Arrange for someone else to handle any other interruptions or distractions that may arise. Play some relaxing music at a low volume – nature sounds work well.

The massage recipient needs to sit or lie down. If sitting, the chair needs to be one that tilts far back, so that the person is almost lying. Make sure the temperature of the room is comfortable enough.

2. Relax the Hair

A head massage is also for the hair, so loosen hair if it's tied up, and also have all jewelry taken off. Use a brush to loosen tangles. If the hair is too rough maybe apply a little warm oil.

Another tip is to wrap a warm towel around the head for 5 minutes – this immediately relaxes the hair and the scalp.

3. Start With Shoulders

Head massage therapists don't aim straight for the head. Instead, they start with the shoulders, with gentle movements from the base of the neck to the two ends of the shoulder blades. Then they move back in towards the base of the neck.

Starting with the shoulders also acts as a familiarisation process, so the person getting the massage has an opportunity to decide on the kind of pressure they want.

4. Navigate the Neck

Our necks carry our heads all day long, and they're under a lot of stress! After the shoulders, the neck comes next, with light movements from the top of the spine to the base of skull.

For this area, only the tips of the fingers or thumbs are used, for gentle movements. More pressure is applied while moving up and less while moving down. Hold the pressure at the base of the neck for a few seconds since this is the area most prone to tension.

5. Cover the Whole Head

When massaging the head, there are two main ways of doing it – with the finger tips in a shampooing motion, or with the palm, in a mild kneading action. Alternate between the two while covering the whole head. One way to ensure this is to move from the base of the skull to the crown, from the crown to the forehead and then the temples.

Using the finger tips will put less pressure, and the palm will mean more pressure. Take cues from the recipient of the massage to know what to do where.

6. Add Special Touches

There are many ways to customise a head massage to an individual's personal preferences. Some people prefer longer, oval movements instead of circular ones. A slight pulling of the hair is also a popular move, although some may not like it.

Many therapists pay special attention to the ear lobes and the area behind the ears. Whatever you choose, make sure that the hands are always in contact with the head in some way or the other, so that the head is not left idle for long.

7. Finish off Gently

While ending the massage, be careful to taper it off gently, as abruptly ending it can completely ruin the experience. This is also important to remember when moving from one part of the head to another, since sudden movements can startle the person who's trying to relax.

Do it slowly, gradually shifting position and pressure. If the hair gets caught in between, do not bother trying to detangle it as it can cause pain or discomfort.

For basic effectiveness, a head massage needs to be at least three minutes long.

Head Massage for Different Hair Types

A head massage with oil may sound like something exclusively for a dry scalp, but the truth is that it can work wonders for all hair types. A head massage done the right way helps to increase blood circulation in the scalp, activating receptors and stimulating hair follicles.

• Normal hair: People with normal hair can do with a head massage once or twice a week. They can use most kinds of oils, although coconut oil and almond oil along with most essential oils work well.
• Dry Hair and Dandruff: Those battling dry hair and dandruff can go for a head massage about three times a week. The preferred oils are coconut oil, argan oil and macadamia oil along with lavender essential oil.
• Oily Hair: For those with oily hair, it is recommended to go for a head massage once a week, so that the head is not weighed down. Good oils for them are coconut oil, peppermint oil and tea tree oil.

(Pratibha Pal spent her childhood in idyllic places only fauji kids would have heard of. She grew up reading a variety of books that let her imagination wander and still hopes to come across the Magic Faraway Tree. When she's not rooting for eco-living or whipping up some DIY recipes to share with her readers, Pratibha is creating magic with social media. You can view her blog at www.pratsmusings.com or reach to her on Twitter at @myepica.)