In a nutshell: Indian Head Massage is a seated, clothed upper body massage.

Massage has been practised in India for thousands of years and is an aspect of the traditional healing system known as Ayurvedic medicine. From birth babies are massaged for the health benefits that touch conveys and this tradition is passed on through families from generation to generation. Indian Head Massage in particular was often performed using oils to keep the hair healthy and shiny!

Today, these techniques combine with massage techniques applied to the upper back, upper arm, neck and face to provide a beneficial treatment to areas of the body that are commonly tight or tense - causing symptoms such as headaches or eyestrain. Therapeutic points and chakra holds further contribute to the relaxing and balancing of the physical and ‘energy bodies’. On a practical level, it's a very portable treatment and can be performed virtually anywhere - in the office, at home, in the park!

Accredited by The Association of Physical and Natural Therapists (APNT)

Why APNT?

Established in 1986 and part of the BCMA (British Complementary Medicine Association) the APNT (Association of Physical and Natural Therapists) sets some of the highest standards in advanced massage training. It ensures that all registered schools deliver expert professional training.

How long is the course?

A 3-day course for: Practitioners of complementary therapies who hold a recognised qualification in anatomy and physiology (or other professionals who have an equivalent or higher level qualification e.g. physiotherapists).

A 2-day course for: Individuals with an interest in Indian Head Massage who may attend the practical part of the course and learn techniques to practise on family and friends.

What will you learn?

For qualified therapists or those holding a recognised qualification in anatomy and physiology: You will learn how to confidently give an Indian Head Massage treatment and be able to practise the therapy safely and competently on members of the public.

For non-practitioners: You will learn some practical techniques to practise on family and friends.

What is covered in the course?

• Massage of the Upper Back, Neck, Upper Arms, Head, Face Effleurage, Petrissage, Tapotement, Pressure Points, Stretches, Mobilisations
• Energy Holds
• Chakra Balancing, all Chakras plus alta-major
• Use of good posture, body weight and breathwork
• Consultations
• Client Care
• After-care
• Use of oils for the Head/Scalp
• History of IHM
• Benefits of IHM.
• Contra-indications of IHM
• Review Relevant Anatomy and Physiology
• Common Relevant Pathologies/Conditions

Who is this course for?

• Practising therapists of any discipline who wish to expand their therapy base and broaden their knowledge
• Anyone interested in an easily portable therapy
• Anyone wanting seated, clothed massage techniques for the upper back, neck, head and face
• Anyone interested in learning about working with chakras

What else?

For those wishing to practise professionally, the (3-day rather than 2-day) course will lead to a practitioner's certificate once all course criteria have met. In order to qualify, students must complete 16 case studies of at least 30 minutes hands-on duration and pass the written and practical examinations.

Certificates of attendance will be given to those studying the practical aspects only - either for interest or for CPD purposes.