by Janette Peel

Created on: February 14, 2009   Last Updated: February 24, 2009

A scalp massage is a wonderful way to promote an immediate feeling of well-being and reducing stress levels.

General tension and stress can inhibit blood flow to your head causing headaches, eye-strain, poor concentration, hair loss, depression and other symptoms. A soothing head and scalp massage provides instant relief.

The beauty of giving or receiving a scalp massage is that it can be done at home or at work, with or without the use of oils, and in as little time as 10 minutes if time is limited. When using therapeutic oils, keep in mind the recipients' hair type and use a blend aimed at a specific condition such as anxiety or dry scalp. All you need is a comfortable place to lie or sit and the healing power of your finger tips.

When performed at home the massage serves to create a caring atmosphere, promoting communication and bonding between family members.

A scalp massage is quick and effective. It will unlock tension, reduce stress and revitalize you. Your eyes will relax and look brighter, and regular massage will ensure strong, shiny hair by releasing tension in the scalp.

There are a number of pressure points on the head. These are specific areas that can be stimulated to achieve pain relief by simply applying gentle pressure with the thumbs and can be incorporated into the massage.

For sinus congestion press in the dimple at the inner end of the eyebrow, directly above he corner of the eye.

Ease nasal congestion by pressing the dimples beside the nose, one finger width away from each nostril.

To relieve temple headaches press in the hollow of the temples, a finger width behind the outer end of the eyebrow.

Soothe eye pain by pressing in the hollow on top of the eyebrows, one finger's width above the pupil of the eye.

A scalp massage involves a sequence that stimulates and invigorates the scalp while providing pleasant, relaxing sensations.

1. Starting from the hairline, gently slide your fingers and palms over the hair as if combing it with your fingers. Run your fingers down to the neck.

2. Support the head with your left hand. Make fingertip circles around the right ear with your right hand. Make 3 rows of circles starting above the ear and working to the crown. Repeat on the left side.

3. Briskly rub the head using whole-hand friction. Continue to support the head with one hand. Work from the occiput, at the base of the head, over to the hairline. Repeat several times to ensure the whole head is covered.

4. Using brisk movements, cover the whole head using knuckle friction. Check the pressure is comfortable for the recipient.

5. With a hand supporting the head, pluck over the whole scalp to the hairline. You may have to swap your supporting hand.

6. Spread your fingers over the scalp and through the hair. Make a fist, pulling large sections of hair through your fingers. The hair should lift at the root as you tense your fist. Repeat all over the head.

7. Using fingertip circles, work over the scalp to the hairline, as if washing the hair. Start with small circles aiming to loosen and move the scalp with your fingertips. Move front to back, left to right.

8. When the whole of the head has been covered, change to bigger circles and repeat the exercise, rubbing the scalp and hair from front to back across the head.

These techniques can easily be adapted for self-massage.

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