Champissage or Indian head massage is the art of lightly massaging the head, shoulders, face, neck and upper arms of a patient to give the body a relaxing experience. This type of therapy uses basic massage techniques that are effective and powerful in giving quick results and benefits to the client’s physical and emotional condition.

This type of therapy can be performed by anyone even without a formal education on head massage therapy. However, therapeutic massages like this have risks and contradictions which should be researched to avoid having problems instead of benefiting from the therapy. Infants are never qualified as clients for this type of massage as their head is fragile and not totally closed. People who suffered from head injuries should also avoid or seek professional advice regarding the use of this therapy.

When performing Indian head massage, you will need a quiet room that is free from distractions of any sort. Find a place that is comfortable for you and for the patient. You can use scented candles during the therapy session as this can add up in creating a soothing environment. Soft music can also be added in the therapeutic session as it can relieve stress. You can use any ordinary chair as your massage chair as long as it can fully support the weight of your client. Choose a chair that is comfortable and sturdy. Pick a spot on the room where you will set up the chair and the scented candles.

Begin the therapy by asking the client to sit comfortably on the chair. When he or she is ready, ask the client to follow you as you perform a deep breathing exercise for a few repetitions. This can make the client feel more comfortable and relaxed as you start working with the massage therapy. Indian head massage can begin from the shoulder by placing both hands softly and gently massage the back part of the shoulder. Do this in several repetitions. With each repetition, the pressure applied should be increased or set to a level tolerable by the client. Ask the patient to tell you if the pressure you use is too much or is creating discomfort. Gently do circular massage strokes at the back of the neck. This allows the body to release tension and remove neck pain. You can go back to the shoulder and work the top of the shoulders by rolling your hands outward in a gentle motion. Go back to the neck by softly gliding the hand from the top of the shoulder going to the top of the neck. Avoid applying pressure as you slide your hands on the neck to avoid damaging the vascular system. You can add techniques such as tilting the head forward and backward without adding effort to the process. This releases tension and stress on the neck and head area. Massage the scalp with the fingers and heel of the hands. Gently slide the hands to massage the forehead to treat headache and to calm the mind. Finish the therapy by slowly gliding your hands and fingers on the head down to the neck.