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indian head massage

I jumped at the chance to assist in an Indian head massage course, held over two weekends at Varndean College, Brighton. It was given by Chris Kavanagh, who also teaches reflexology and aromatherapy.

One of the problems I've found in the past with practical therapy courses is that when one of the participants is being demonstrated on, they can't see what is happening, so the teacher has to demonstrate the techniques they've used for a second time. Secondly, if there is an odd number of attendees, someone misses out on some practice, or a group of three has less time to practice than the rest of the participants.

On the second week, someone unfortunately couldn't attend, so I stepped in to give - and receive - a massage.

The participants on the course had varied backgrounds, some being experienced in other complementary therapies and some just starting to explore. They were all pleasant, enthusiastic and I enjoyed meeting them all.

After an introduction, Chris demonstrated some techniques - on me - and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I have never experienced Indian head massage before, but there are similarities with other forms of massage I've tried. You can experience it fully clothed, but as you can use oils, it is better to wear loose clothing.

During the massages, everyone enjoyed themselves - whether giving or receiving a treatment.

Sometimes there was laughter, but as the course went on, the atmosphere got calmer and quieter as we chilled out.

The different techniques were fascinating, including 'pecking' at the hair with our fingernails, gently tugging clumps, stroking it, and other techniques were used on the face, arms and shoulders.

Chris explained the effects and advantages of various base oils, including mustard, olive, coconut, sesame and almond, and talked about different aromatherapy oils and when to use them.

See my aromatherapy section for more.

As I write this, I can still smell the oils on my skin - Patchouli, Lime and Chamomile in a sesame carrier oil.

Thanks, Krystal, for the great massage!

Overall, it was a very interesting course, and I look forward to exploring this and related therapies in more depth.

updated Sat 15 Jan '05   give feedback...

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: : © Mike Bliss 2009