Shiatsu Massage Techniques

Shiatsu massage techniques have been found to be highly effective in treating various disorders related to psychological and physical ailments. This article gives an insight into the details of this wonderful therapeutic massage technique.

Massage therapy is probably one of the oldest forms of medical care that has been prevalent in almost all major cultures that ever existed on this Earth. In the eastern traditions, especially Ayurveda of India, massage has been used since ancient times to relieve body ailments. Roman, Egyptian, Chinese, Greek, Indian and Japanese traditions have regarded massage as a natural method of curing body disorders.

What is Shiatsu Massage?

Shiatsu are a part of Japanese massage techniques and they can be considered equal to acupressure therapy in Chinese meridian system. The word 'Shiatsu' is derived from Japanese words, Shi and atsu meaning 'fingers' and 'pressure' respectively. So in essence, the shiatsu massage therapy works on the pressure points of the body.

Just like the therapy, Shiatsu massage techniques regard body to be composed of 14 meridians corresponding to all organs of the body. These channels maintain free flow of energy called as chi energy. Any hindrance in the path of these channels is considered to be a cause of health problem. Balancing the flow of chi energy is the main objective of shiatsu . When western medicines are unable to relate to the concept of chi energy, shiatsu is believed to be an alternative option for patients. Read more on massage therapy techniques.

Shiatsu Massage Techniques for Relieving Headaches

Headaches are generally caused due to stress and fatigue that results due to long hours of work or emotional disturbances. Shiatsu massage techniques for eliminating headaches are as follows:

• The five points located under the base of the skull at the back must be pressed with the pad of your thumbs. A masseuse can begin from the center of the back of your head and press gently every point on the back and move further with your finger's on the back at a width's apart.
• Perform the same procedure with your left hand and apply pressure on left side of skull.
• Move on to areas like shoulder tips and gently massage them.
• The stiffness from neck, shoulder and spine can be further lessened by slowly massaging the areas of knuckle on the pinkie side of your hand.
• On the outer heel bone between ankle and the Achilles tendon, there are pressure points that help to remove headaches due to tension.

Shiatsu Massage Techniques for Relaxation

Shiatsu massage pressure points provide instant relief and enhance the feeling of well being.

• By applying deep pressure on the center calming of the head, one can balance the tension in the head. By placing the thumbs on the top of ears and bringing the index fingers on the top of your head you can apply pressure.
• On the back side of the hand, apply pressure between the area of thumb and index finger by the pad of opposite thumb. This eases the tension between jaws, neck and shoulders.
• In the area between the first and second toes (place where small bones merge), apply gentle pressure to balance the flow of energy. Sliding your middle finger in that areas eases you of and muscle spasms.

Be it a digestive problem, emotional pain, physical problems or even psychological problems, shiatsu massage can be used for treatment of all types of ailments. Shiatsu massage is a deeply satisfying massage technique as it balances the energy points of the body. This massage technique is widely recommended for women having problems of menstrual cramps.

A deep sense of calmness, relaxation and contentment is felt by people who go through this massage procedure. Shiatsu massage techniques have various forms and they are used for healing various ailments. In some cases, people going for this massage therapy may show side effects like cold or flu after the first few sessions of shiatsu massage. In the quest to achieve holistic health, massage therapy has evolved to be an integral part of health care market and is used for its various benefits.

Steps To A Great Self-Administered Scalp Massage

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A SELF-ADMINSTERED SCALP MASSAGE is a great way to enhance hair health. Scalp massages not only feel good, they enhance hair health by improving circulation and allowing more blood to flow to the scalp area. This eventually leads to shinier, healthier hair.

The first step is to decide if you want to use scalp oil. The best oils for a SELF-ADMINISTERED SCALP MASSAGE depend on your needs. First, choose an oil such as olive oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil to use as a base. Then, pick the appropriate essential oils. For example, tea tree and lavender are often used for dandruff, rosemary and peppermint are sometimes used for hair loss, and chamomile and rose are often used if you are experiencing excess dryness. For each tablespoon of base oil you use, add two drops of essential oil. For each tablespoon of base oil you use, add two drops of essential oil.

The next step to a successful SELF-ADMINISTERED SCALP MASSAGE is to brush your hair. This helps detangle the hair, adds some shine, and loosens any flakes that are attached to the scalp. The best brush to use before your will depend on your hair type. Long, straight hair requires a different brush than short, curly hair. Bend from the waist and brush your hair upside-down. This improves scalp circulation and helps give the hair more body.

To begin the SELF-ADMINSTERED SCALP MASSAGE. Place a small amount of the scalp oil on your fingers. Bend from the waist to allow MORE BLOOD FLOW TO SCALP. Touch the pads of your fingers firmly to the scalp area near your temples. Massage in a circular motion your hairline gradually working your way around the entire scalp. Add more oil to your fingers when necessary.

After you use all the oil, warm a dry towel for a few seconds in the microwave and place it on your head. Let the oil set for at least ten minutes. Try not to do anything during that time. Just lie down, close your eyes, and listen to relaxing music. This allows the oils to absorb into your hair and scalp to give it added moisture.

When ten minutes are up, you will need to shampoo and condition your hair to wash out the SELF-ADMINISTERED SCALP MASSAGE oil. Gently brush your hair first to release any tangles. When you shampoo, keep in mind that you may need to lather up twice to get rid of all the oil. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. If your hair and scalp are extremely dry, leave the oil in overnight and shampoo and condition your hair in the morning.

Try to perform a SELF-ADMINISTERED SCALP MASSAGE once a week. If done regularly, you will notice that your hair is shinier and stronger and has a lot more body. You may want to vary the essential oils as your needs change. Just make sure to do your research. Some essential oils may be harmful and/or cause allergic reactions. Also, certain oils are not to be used if pregnant or nursing.

Warm Oil Massage For Healthy Hair

Warm Oil Massage For Healthy Hair

A warm oil massage does wonders for the hair and scalp. Massaging your scalp twice or thrice a week will stimulate and moisturize the scalp. You can use good quality coconut, almond or olive oil.
Before we tell you how to go about it here are a few things you will need:
1/2 cup hair oil
1/2 cup boiling water
a towel and a shower cap

Massaging your scalp
1. Place hair oil of your choice and hot water into a large glass bottle or jar with a lid. You may need to wrap a towel around the bottle to avoid burning yourself.
2. Shake well in order to mix the oil and water. Shake until the oil is emulsified.
3. Massage gently into hair, taking care not to burn your scalp.
4. Put a shower cap or plastic bag over your hair and wrap your head in a towel that has been soaked in hot water then wrung out.
5. Leave on overnight if you can, if not, leave on for at least an hour or two, then get it out by shampooing your hair as usual.

This type of warm oil massage not only gives you healthy hair but helps you relax and aids sound sleep as well!

Important Tips for Choosing Scalp Massage Oil

Important Tips for Choosing Scalp Massage Oil

Below are various tips on choosing the right scalp massage oil for a healthy scalp and lustrous hair.

• You can choose either sesame oil or almond oil as the base for vata hair. These oils help in reducing the tightness and stiffness of the scalp and are very nourishing.
• Coconut oil is best choice for Pitta type of hair as coconut oil massage slows down premature graying and thinning of the hair.
• You can use either olive or sesame oil if you have Kapha hair, olive oil helps in keeping the pores open.
• Ayurvedic oils that include hair beneficial herbs boost up the advantages of the scalp massages. These ayurvedic oils are prepared by slowly cooking the herbs with the oil, and then the oil is strained for ready to use purpose.
• Popularly used herbs in ayurvedic oils are Brahmi – good for Vata hair as it promotes hair thickness and helps in calming the nervous system and mind.
• Amalaki is beneficial for all types of hair. It has a purifying, nourishing and cooling effect on the hair. It is more beneficial for pitta type of hair. It also prevents flakes and dry scalp.
• Bhringaraj is good for pitta hair and is known as “king of stresses.” It is very nourishing for all types of hairs.
• Hibiscus helps in maintaining hair vitality and color. It also has cooling property.
• Neem (Azadirichta indica) – has cleansing and purifying properties and is good for kapha hair.
• Other beneficial herbs used in ayurvedic oils are Lavender, Rosemary and Jasmine. They help in stimulating hair follicle, promotes hair growth, conditions the scalp, slows down premature graying and thinning.

Benefits of Scalp Massage

Benefits of Scalp Massage

Scalp massage done once in a week with warm oil provides you with following benefits.

• It helps in lubrication and conditioning of the scalp while preventing dry scalp and flakes.
• It increases the blood circulation of the head and the neck area.
• It increases the scalp flexibility and also relaxes your scalp.
• It helps in strengthening of the hair roots and nourishing the hair-shafts.
• It promotes new hair growth and also strengthens the existing hairs.
• It conditions and softens the hair hence making it more manageable.
• It increases the luster and vibrancy of the hair by spreading the natural oil.
• It also protects hair from the harmful effects of harsh weather and sun.
• It rejuvenates and replenishes dry and damage hair. It also prevents extreme fragility and split-ends.
• Scalp massage helps in relaxing muscles of the neck area.
• Scalp and hair massage promotes sound sleep in the night.

Head and Scalp Massage Techniques

The finest indicator of your good health is the lustrous and glowing hair growing on your head. And, since ancient times, hair and scalp massage is used in various cultures as a treatment for hair loss and to grow healthy hair.

According to Ayurveda, maintaining healthy and lustrous hair is an ongoing process, which starts with the nourishment. The best way to nourish your hair topically is to massage your hair and scalp with warm oil mainly infused with beneficial herbs. Scalp massage is not only beneficial for your hair but it will also relax your nervous system and mind.

According to your body and hair type, the massage oil can be modified. According to Ayurveda, there are three types of hair: Vata hair- tangled, tizzy and full of split ends, Pitta hair- straight, and soft but whitens prematurely and Kapha hair- wavy, thick and oily. So, before using any treatment for your hair loss it is better to understand your hair first. Treatment for one type of hair may not be suitable for the other types of hair.

Scalp Massage to Prevent Hairloss

Apart from healthy diet a weekly scalp massage is a necessity for healthy hair. It helps in stimulating blood flow and reduces the stress that is a major cause for hair loss. Here are some tips for scalp massage.

• Hot steam bath will be highly beneficial for your hair and scalp. Massage hot oil and wrap up a hot damp towel on your head for sometime.
• Hot oil therapy can cure dandruff and help prevent hair loss. Massage hot oil into your scalp before going to bed. Next morning - an hour before going for bath - mix lemon juice and cosmetic vinegar, and apply it into your scalp with cotton wool. Wash your hair properly. Mix one lemon in one cup of hot water. Apply its as a last rinse.Treat yourself with this massage once or twice in a week for a minimum of three months.
• Mix 2 tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar and 6 tablespoons of hot water. Pat this with cotton on your scalp and leave it overnight. Next morning wash your hair with a shampoo.
• Mix beetroot juice in vinegar. Apply it on your scalp.
• Mix ginger juice and beetroot juice. Apply it on your head to cure dandruff and prevent hair loss.
• Mix olive oil and almond oil, and apply the mixture on your scalp. Leave it for 5 min after you get the burning sensation. Then rinse properly.
• Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water before going to bed. Grind the softened seeds in morning. Apply this paste on your scalp. After half an hour wash your hair with shikakai or ritha solution.
• Warm 300 gm of coconut oil with 3 gm of black pepper. Stop heating once it starts boiling. Filter it with a fine cloth and then keep in a bottle. Massage your scalp gently with fingertips during nights.
• Use one teaspoon of fresh limejuice for last rinse while washing your hair. It helps the hair to glow and also helps remove stickiness and prevents dandruff.
• Dilute cider vinegar in equal amount of water. Dab this to your hair with cotton wool in between the shampooing of hair.
• Crush beetroot leaves in henna paste, and apply it on your head.
• Massage your hair for half an hour with curd that is left open for three days.
• Mix few drops of limejuice with amla. Apply it every night to your scalp before going to bed.
• Apply processed henna once in 15 days. It can be prepared in this way. Boil equal amounts of shikakai powder and amla in water. Allow it to cool. Then mix henna powder, small amount of roasted clove and fenugreek powder, little lemon juice and egg.
• Mix split black gram and milk, and apply it on your scalp.
• Beat two eggs. And add 2 tablespoons of water to it. Wet your hair and apply this egg mixture to your hair. Now massage your head and let the mixture be on it for 10-15 minutes. Then rinse your hair with lukewarm water. It helps in keeping both dandruff and hair loss away from you.