Ayurvedic Head Massage
PRACTICE
Ayurvedic head massage [Shiro Abhyanga] is an ancient therapeutic treatment that has been practiced in India for over 2000 years. As per classical Ayurvedic texts, body therapies such as abhyanga were traditionally given – to oneself and others – on a daily basis to ensure good health and promote overall mind-body wellbeing. The rediscovery of lost wisdom, revival, and self-exploration of such promotive rituals can support the body’s natural healing responses and inherent functions. In addition to this, Abhyanga also offer reprieve from life’s many daily stressors.
Shiro Abhyanga focuses on releasing energy blockages in the body and can aid in decreasing symptoms of ailments. It involves a variety of pressure techniques including circular massage strokes that focus on your head, shoulders, and neck regions – all of which increases circulation to the head and promotes drainage of accumulated toxins. The sages of ancient times describe the human body as an inverted tree; having roots at the top and branches below. At the roots lie our head – the chief organ in which the sensory faculties and Prana (life force) reside. Just as healthy roots confer good health to the rest of the tree, lovingly taking care of the head can induce a great sense of mental and physical wellbeing.
As per Ayurveda, your body contains 108 vital points called “Marmas” – of which 31 marmas are present in your head region. These marmas are the pressure points where the arteries, veins, and nerves intersect. Shiro-abhyanga is a specialized oil massage of the head targeting specific marmas to help soothe the entire nervous system while relieving mental fatigue, reducing headaches and eye strain, promoting restful sleep, relieving anxiety, psychosomatic disorders, and creating a centered overall mental state.
Oil massages nourish the hair, rejuvenating dry or damaged strands, and increases lustre. It can also help prevent hair loss and premature greying, protecting hair against harmful environmental factors such as prolonged sun exposure and harsh weather conditions. Regular scalp massage can increase the supply of nutrients received by the hair follicles to promote healthier growth.
1. Choose a warm and quiet place where you would not be disturbed.
2. Find the first marma point – located 8 finger-widths above the eyebrows. Then using MANJULA Hair Oil, place several drops on this point and spread it with your fingers in gentle circular motions.
2. Find the second marma point – 4 finger-widths behind the first. Place a few drops on this point and spread it evenly.
3. Tip your head forward and place a few drops of oil onto the third marma point – located where the skull and neck meet.
4. Using the dropper, apply some oil onto your fingertips and gently smooth it into your hairline using circular strokes. Begin by massaging around the forehead, moving slowly from the center parting down towards the temples.
5. Continue with this massaging technique – moving downward from the center parting while covering all areas of the scalp.
1. Choose a warm and quiet place where you would not be disturbed.
2. Find the first marma point – located 8 finger-widths above the eyebrows. Then using MANJULA Hair Oil, place several drops on this point and spread it with your fingers in gentle circular motions.
2. Find the second marma point – 4 finger-widths behind the first. Place a few drops on this point and spread it evenly.
3. Tip your head forward and place a few drops of oil onto the third marma point – located where the skull and neck meet.
4. Using the dropper, apply some oil onto your fingertips and gently smooth it into your hairline using circular strokes. Begin by massaging around the forehead, moving slowly from the center parting down towards the temples.
5. Continue with this massaging technique – moving downward from the center parting while covering all areas of the scalp.
6. Using the same circular massage strokes, start from the bottom of the neck and move upwards covering the back of the head.
7. Apply additional oil to the strands and tips as needed throughout.
8. End the head massage with gentle circular strokes around the temples using your middle fingers.
9. Avoid rushing out in the cold after Shiro Abhyanga. Sit quietly or lie down for at least 10 minutes to assimilate the benefits of the ritual. Bring your awareness to your breath, releasing tension with each full exhalation, and allowing a sense of peace and stillness to flow in with each inhalation. To receive the maximum benefits from Shiro Abhyanga, we recommend leaving our oil on for a few hours or overnight before washing it out with a gentle shampoo.
TIP – It has been advised in Ayurveda to avoid applying hot water onto the head as it can be damaging for the hair, scalp, and skin. When washing one’s hair, it is best to keep your water temperature lukewarm, then readjust to your preferred temperature after.
6. Using the same circular massage strokes, start from the bottom of the neck and move upwards covering the back of the head.
7. Apply additional oil to the strands and tips as needed throughout.
8. End the head massage with gentle circular strokes around the temples using your middle fingers.
9. Avoid rushing out in the cold after Shiro Abhyanga. Sit quietly or lie down for at least 10 minutes to assimilate the benefits of the ritual. Bring your awareness to your breath, releasing tension with each full exhalation, and allowing a sense of peace and stillness to flow in with each inhalation. To receive the maximum benefits from Shiro Abhyanga, we recommend leaving our oil on for a few hours or overnight before washing it out with a gentle shampoo.
TIP – It has been advised in Ayurveda to avoid applying hot water onto the head as it can be damaging for the hair, scalp, and skin. When washing one’s hair, it is best to keep your water temperature lukewarm, then readjust to your preferred temperature after.
Marma Points —
Stimulating these pressure points help sustain the flow of energy throughout your body, promote healthy organ function, and aid in regulating hormones
