Indian Head Massage

​History

Indian Head Massage (or champissage) is based on the ancient Ayurvedic healing system passed down from generation to generation within ancient India. It is a holistic therapy incorporating mind, body and spirit. The treatment has been practised in India for over a thousand years, originally to keep hair in beautiful condition by stimulating blood flow to the scalp, thus nourishing the hair roots A variety of herbs, spices and oils with known healing properties were used in the process which gave the added benefit of relieving a number of common scalp conditions. Originally it was almost exclusively concerned with massage of the head and hair follicles, although over time it has developed to incorporate massage and manipulation of the face, scalp, neck, upper back, shoulders and upper arms as is seen in the modern embodiment of the therapy.

Indian Head massage was originally developed by women who practised the techniques within their family and friendship groups on those of all ages. As well as the physical and psychological benefits associated with the treatment it also gave the added bonus of improving bonds. Over time Hairdressers and barbers began to offer Indian Head Massage to both their male and female customers as it complimented their main service. The popularity of champissage has continued to grow to the point that it is now widely available as a service throughout India and increasingly in the U.K.