To keep your head clear and healthy, and your eyes to see well, you need a regular supply of oxygen and nutrients. If there is not enough blood in the brain, then the problem is in the neck. More precisely, in the vessels passing through the cervical spine, which are squeezed by the vertebrae.
When the question arises of how to treat pinched neck vessels, you should not immediately grab pills and medications. All drugs relieve only pain. It is impossible to return vertebrae to their place, or remove protrusions, with pills. This needs to be understood.
Dr. Mamatov shows exercises to improve blood circulation in the brain. To work on painful areas, prepare a wooden spoon or spatula.
Effect of massage
The main purpose of massage is to stimulate the hair follicles, which leads to hair growth. It is usually prescribed for severe hair loss, which is caused by two groups of causes. The first includes external factors: frequent dyeing and the use of low-quality dyes, the effect of chemicals for curling and the use of hair dryers, straightening irons and curling irons.
Internal causes include improper metabolism, stress, the postpartum period, diseases of the immune system, fungal infections, cervical osteochondrosis, hormonal imbalances and poor nutrition. Taking antibiotics and strong medications, recovery from illnesses and injuries is often accompanied by hair loss.
Massage sessions can not only slow down the onset of baldness, but also increase hair thickness and get rid of dandruff.
Therapy is effective for diseases of the blood vessels of the brain, migraines, low blood pressure and insomnia, for diseases of the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract. Massaging the scalp eliminates spasms of connective tissues. Brain activity and attentiveness improve, and overall tone increases.
Mechanism of influence on the body
Trichological massage is effective by improving blood circulation and lymph flow. Mechanical impact on the scalp stimulates the sebaceous glands and awakens the hair follicles. During treatment, dead epidermal cells are removed, the skin relaxes and the cells are saturated with oxygen and nutrients. Lymph passes through the vessels freely, ridding tissues of waste products, excess fluid and toxins.
Stimulation of nerve endings leads to the formation of multiple impulses going to the brain. This provokes the production of hormones, incl. and hormones of joy, pleasure, happiness. The nervous system relaxes, negative emotions and feelings of anxiety go away. At the same time, natural tissue regeneration processes are launched, which has a rejuvenating effect on the entire body.
Indications and contraindications
Massage of the scalp is recommended not only as a means of prevention and hair restoration, but also to eliminate many skin diseases. It is indicated for:
- Itching, dry skin and frequent irritation;
- Edema;
- Thrombosis;
- For injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
- Drowsiness and apathy;
- Muscle cramps and spasms;
- Pulmonary failure;
- Muscle pain;
- Stress, depression;
- Emotional exhaustion and chronic fatigue;
- Impaired blood circulation;
- Migraines and headaches, accompanied by vomiting, nausea, fainting.
Do not massage if:
- There are open wounds, abrasions, and hematomas on the skin;
- Diagnosed with hypertension;
- There are infectious diseases;
- Enlarged occipital and submandibular lymph nodes;
- Have chronic heart disease.
The effectiveness of massage
To improve blood circulation in the brain and reduce blood pressure, doctors recommend acupressure. After the sessions, the following positive changes are observed:
- Stress is reduced;
- Relieves muscle spasms and blocks;
- Convulsions go away;
- Sleep is normalized;
- Headaches go away;
- Blood circulation improves not only in the brain, but also in other organs;
- The movement of lymph and metabolic processes at the cellular level improves;
- Improves concentration and memory;
- Joint mobility is restored;
- The feeling of numbness in the limbs disappears;
- Blood pressure normalizes;
- Improves memory, thinking ability, and emotional stamina.
The ability to do self-massage allows you not only to improve your well-being, but also to maintain health, avoid serious problems and premature aging.
Head and neck massage technique
It is recommended to massage the head twice a week as a preventative measure and for hair growth and strengthening, followed by hair washing. Some people practice scalp massage with a comb, after which they wash their hair, then proceed to the main head and neck massage. Others perform a scalp massage first, and wash their hair after the main massage if the hair becomes oily.
Includes classic massage movements. Perform a head massage:
- stroking: longitudinal, transverse and clasping one hand on the forehead, moving towards the back of the head. The second hand supports the back of the head;
- stroking down and to the sides on the crown, going around the ears - on the neck. The intake stimulates the nerve endings of the skin, which helps to activate blood circulation to the hair roots, cleanses the glandular ducts, delivers fresh oxygen and nutrition to the skin and hair follicles;
- zigzag, rake-shaped rubbing with both hands from the top of the crown to the bottom border of the hair. To direct movements transversely or longitudinally in all directions, the position of the hands is changed;
- active rubbing to enhance secretory activity and cleanse the scalp. At the same time, hyperemia will appear, the nutrition of hair and skin will improve, the nerve endings in the scalp will be excited, and the headache will go away;
- stretching and shifting the skin, placing the palms of the hands at the same time on the forehead and back of the head. The skin is first shifted on the forehead, then across the back of the head, then along. Cover the entire scalp. Use your fingers to pinch the folds on the forehead and back of the head;
- kneading, increasing the mobility of the scalp, strengthening deep tissues and increasing its tone, relieving pain, improving hair nutrition;
- Ayurvedic technique - massage the head with a large comb, then separate strands of hair for light tugging on each strand. At the same time, they hold their head. The pulling force is gradually increased, but without pain or hair pulling;
- stroking between each change of massage movement. At the same time, the patient feels a slight pleasant warmth, his muscles relax, the local skin temperature increases, which improves skin breathing;
- vibration movements, the vibrations of which must be of different speeds and frequencies, amplitude and intensity. Vibration head massage has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and internal organs.
Head massage is performed along massage lines that pass:
- from the bridge of the nose along the bones: frontal and parietal, down to the neck and further to the trapezius muscle;
- from the temporal bone past the area behind the ear to the neck;
- along the side surface of the neck from the ear towards the trapezius muscle;
- from the bridge of the nose along the eyebrow to the temples and crown of the head.
Neck massage is performed:
- stroking: planar, grasping, comb-shaped, pincer-shaped in the direction from top to bottom;
- rubbing: straight, circular, crossing, sawing and hatching;
- kneading: transverse, longitudinal, forceps, shifting, stretching, pressing;
- vibration: puncturing, light tapping, patting and shaking with individual fingers.
A neck massage will relax the muscles of the shoulder girdle and skull, which is necessary for normal blood circulation and relief from headaches and muscle pain. Massage manipulations on the neck are carried out on the sides and back from top to bottom, and from the front - from bottom to top.
Massage indications
To prescribe a massage, the following indications are required:
- insufficient blood circulation and tissue nutrition;
- narrowing of the alveoli, impaired serotonin metabolism;
- uneven expansion of blood vessels in the brain;
- reduction of arteriolar reactivity to carbon dioxide;
- disorder of the central nervous system;
- low or high blood pressure;
- stress, migraine and pain syndromes of the head and muscles for other reasons;
- there is no reaction of the scalp to cosmetics;
- dandruff, improper functioning of the sebaceous glands;
- Intense or delayed hair loss and baldness;
- Hypertension and hangover syndrome.
From the editor: How is an MRI of the brain performed with contrast?
Massaging the head and neck to improve blood circulation can be a good solution to the problem without the use of drugs. Cerebrovascular accidents occur in people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, so ways to combat them are always relevant.
Signs of circulatory problems include:
- regular headaches, dizziness;
- tinnitus;
- weakness;
- dark spots before the eyes, lightheadedness;
- fainting.
Simple types of massage can act as both therapeutic and preventative agents.
Self-massage
Self-massage is a procedure designed to replace the therapeutic effect provided by a massage therapist. It is also useful to acquire the skill of self-massage of the neck and shoulders to relieve spasms during the working day. Restoring good health may be necessary both during a hike and before performing physical exercises, which sometimes - without warming up the muscles - cause discomfort in the body. Anyone can quickly master the technique performed with their own hands, thanks to relatively simple techniques that are easy to repeat.
SELF-MASSAGE TECHNIQUE SHVZ
The exercise can be performed either sitting or standing - the effectiveness of the effect does not change depending on the position of the body. However, uncomfortable positions that cause muscle tension should be avoided.
Method of neck and shoulder self-massage:
- Neck.
First, you grab it with both hands, which touch the cervical vertebrae with your fingertips, but do not press on them. Then strokes are carried out, descending from top to bottom (amplitude from 1 to 3 cm). Stimulation options: with both hands simultaneously or with each hand alternately. - Shoulder girdle.
Having begun to rub the neck in a circular motion, the person, without leaving the body, moves his hands to his shoulders and rhythmically grasps the skin (the technique of squeezing the fingers is reminiscent of the process of sculpting plasticine). Gradually, the massage area of the neck-collar area shifts to the shoulders. - Upper back.
Together with the shoulder girdle, the adjacent skin areas are kneaded. The maximum amount of time should be devoted to the upper trapezius muscle, which is often very tense. - The entire neck and collar area.
At the end of the massage, any actions are performed that can be repeated with your own hands - patting, tapping, chopping (20 times each technique). Kneading the muscles should be completed by stroking.
If during self-massage you were able to detect trigger points that cause pain when pressed, then you should rub them very carefully.
Only specialists in the field of massage have the knowledge and skills to help bring exceptionally beneficial effects to these areas of the body.
Medical fact.
You can massage the CVZ area even through clothing, so you can provide a therapeutic effect not only at home.
Oil head massage at home
Make yourself comfortable
Before starting the massage, choose a quiet place where you can abstract from the outside world for at least half an hour and focus on yourself, your head and the massage.
Massage with your fingertips, not your nails!
Place the fingertips of both hands in the center of the forehead, and the thumbs at the temples. Lightly press your fingers on your head and select a pressure that is comfortable for you.
Move your fingers towards the crown and continue pressing movements, gradually moving towards the back of the head. Having reached the back of the head, move your fingers from the center to the sides and move towards the forehead.
Having covered the entire surface of the head with such pressing movements, repeat the cycle from the beginning, but this time using light sliding movements from the center of the head to the sides.
Try to synchronize your movements with your breathing - this will have a calming effect and help get rid of headaches.
Use oil
Apply a few drops of massage oil to your fingertips. Massage your head in circular movements of a small radius, starting from the temples and moving first to the crown and then to the back of the head. Add oil as needed.
After the entire surface of the scalp is covered with oil, wrap your head with a warm towel and leave for 10-15 minutes. If your scalp is prone to dryness, itching and irritation, you can leave the oil on overnight.
Wash your hair with shampoo
After finishing the massage, wash your hair with shampoo, then use your regular conditioner. Perhaps one time is not enough to remove the remaining oil from your hair. In this case, wash your hair twice.
It is better to use mild sulfate-free or baby shampoo.
Supporting tools
To perform the procedure, various available tools are available for sale:
- Anti-stress goosebump is ideal for stimulating hair follicles. This device is easy to use and inexpensive. It is enough to manipulate this massager for 5 minutes a day.
- The Darsonval apparatus acts on the scalp with high-frequency currents. It comes with a special comb attachment.
- Applicators, for example, Lyapko or Kuznetsova, help massage the cervical area. The device is placed on a bolster and lies down so that the back of the neck rests on the device. You need to spend as much time as possible in this position.
After the first session you will feel a short-term effect. The more procedures you perform, the more stable the result will become. Gradually, self-massage will become a habit, and you will no longer need to fight laziness to perform it. With the help of fairly simple manipulations, you will get rid of many health problems without using medications and will get sick less often.
Effect of massage
After self-massage of the posterior sections, massage the anterior muscles of the neck. The same techniques are used in the same sequence. When massaging the anterior neck muscles, stroking is performed more gently; the skin should not stretch. It is necessary to squeeze the area behind the ear near the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Alternately, first with two, then with three and four fingers.
Then you need to massage your chin. Stroking is done from the jaw to the bottom of the chin and from the medial line towards the ears (4-5 repetitions). Then they knead the chin. To do this, place the pads of four fingers on it and massage your chin, while moving the skin in one direction or the other (4-5 repetitions).
Who is contraindicated for massage?
There are few prohibitions on such treatment. It cannot be performed if there are wounds, burns, tumors or dermatological diseases on the skin. Fungal infections are also a contraindication to the procedure, as spores can infect the hands and healthy areas of the head. Self-massage is not recommended for the following chronic problems:
- hemophilia;
- thrombosis;
- inflammation of bone tissue;
- presence of a pacemaker or metal plate;
- inflammation of blood vessels.
Doctors do not recommend such a session after drinking alcohol, during menstruation, with allergic reactions and elevated body temperature.
Many techniques for self-massage of the collar area are allowed to be done during pregnancy, but before doing this, you should definitely consult with your gynecologist.
Massage your head with a comb or brush
In order not to damage the skin, but to ensure strengthening and accelerated hair growth, you need to choose the right comb. Two main requirements: the product must fit comfortably in your hand (so that the procedure does not cause discomfort and does not overstrain the hand muscles) and be made from natural materials. Wood or bristles are ideal. The teeth of such combs bend well and do not electrify the strands.
To massage the entire head, you need to treat it with the product in different directions. Quantity – at least one hundred times, duration – about 12 minutes. Brush back and forth, from the crown to the forehead and vice versa. You should feel your skin warming up; if you feel it, you are doing everything right. Repeat the procedure daily to see the effect after a month. For best results, use essential oils (2 drops per comb).
Video: explanation and performance of massage
Featured articles
Poor circulation can cause irreversible processes in the body. After all, blood delivers oxygen, nutrients, and removes waste products. A decrease in cellular nutrition and deterioration in breathing lead to disruption of the coordinated functioning of the entire organism. Regular massage will help restore blood circulation, the basics of which you can master on your own.
Benefits of massage for blood circulation
The main purpose of the procedure is to improve blood circulation in problem areas of the body and increase the overall tone of the body. Massage promotes rapid recovery of damaged muscles and stimulates the regeneration of internal organs. It increases the elasticity of ligaments and muscle tissue, and helps saturate them with beneficial substances brought by the blood.
Massage not only effectively copes with congestion, it prevents its occurrence. The procedure is indicated for circulatory disorders of the lower and upper extremities. It is effective in localizing pain in certain areas of the lower back, spine, and cervical spine. Massaging certain points on the head relieves migraines and prevents various problems with blood circulation in the brain. You can read more about this on our website.
How does massage affect the body to improve blood circulation?
Massage has a wide range of effects, improves blood circulation locally, and affects the entire body. Under the influence of the procedure, blood flow to the heart is stimulated, after which it again rushes into the cells of the whole body. The benefits of massage are as follows:
- Muscle tone increases, congestion disappears.
- Cellular metabolism improves, the skin becomes smooth and acquires a pleasant color.
- Stimulates cell regeneration, activates the process of removing toxins and free radicals.
- Normalizes metabolism, stimulates immunity.
- Improves the functioning of internal organs and the respiratory functions of the skin.
Special ones will help to complement the effect of the massage, which you can easily do at home.
How to massage to improve blood circulation: technique and basic techniques
Classic massage is considered the simplest and easiest to perform. Once you have mastered massage techniques, you will be able to perform massages to improve blood circulation at home.
Basic massage techniques to improve blood circulation:
- The procedure begins with light stroking, which will relax the muscles and bring the body back to normal.
- After this, you can begin kneading, pressing with your thumbs and rolling the body tissues with the rest until relaxation occurs.
- Rubbing in case of poor circulation is an effective technique that increases blood flow and gives a feeling of warmth from the massaged area.
- Pressing with the pads of your thumbs stimulates blood flow and increases tone.
- Pressure on various parts of the body can be increased if it is applied not only with the fingers, but with the entire palm.
At first, it costs about 10-12 minutes to massage the areas; after several sessions, the duration of the procedure is increased to 20-30 minutes, eventually reaching an hour or more. Movements should be directed from bottom to top, from the periphery to the center.
Contraindications for massage
- Massage is contraindicated in case of exacerbation of chronic diseases, acute inflammation of the skin and organs.
- The procedure is prohibited if there are foci of purulent inflammation on the body or inside the body.
- Increased bleeding is one of the symptoms of a contraindication to the procedure. The fragile walls of the capillaries break under the influence of massage, causing bleeding.
- If there are fungal skin infections, allergic rashes, or injuries on the body, the procedure is contraindicated.
Before performing a massage, especially if you have chronic diseases, you should consult your doctor.
For 50 centuries, humanity has been relieving nervous and mental tension by performing simple massage movements in the head area. This reduces the intensity of headaches and reduces stress levels. A person gains the opportunity to increase his efficiency and cheerfulness. Improve sleep quality and prevent chronic neurological disorders.
Indications and contraindications
Such a healing technique as head massage has its own indications and contraindications. In most cases, it is a useful procedure that has a positive effect on the body and health. But sometimes it is better to refuse it so as not to aggravate some diseases. So, indications for head massage:
- headache;
- insomnia or other sleep disorders;
- chronic fatigue;
- state of anxiety;
- constant stress;
- emotional instability;
- muscle spasm;
- convulsions;
- dandruff;
- hair loss;
- dry skin, hair;
- seborrhea;
- damaged hair ends.
The technique cannot be recommended or used if the patient:
- head injury in any condition;
- eczema;
- scalp disease (fungus);
- baldness;
- dilated blood vessels on the face;
- too oily hair;
- recent surgery;
- elevated temperature;
- spondylosis;
- spondyloarthritis;
- thrombosis;
- embolism;
- acute stages of any chronic diseases;
- oncological diseases;
- heart problems.
Indications for neck massage
This type of massage is indicated for every person as an element of a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of various diseases, and as a treatment it is indicated:
- for cervical osteochondrosis and spondyloarthrosis;
- to relieve muscle hypertonicity;
- to improve cerebral circulation;
- to relieve fatigue and tension at the end of the day;
- to improve mental activity;
- for tension headaches;
- to lower blood pressure (if blood pressure is very high, massage is prohibited!);
- as one of the components in rehabilitation after strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, and serious neurological diseases;
- as a way of relaxation.
Benefits of scalp massage for hair
During a short massage procedure, the hair follicles are stimulated, increasing blood flow to the scalp and activating nutrition of the hair follicles. All this is extremely useful for preventing hair loss and also leads to better hair growth.
When using additional products (scrubs, combs, etc.), the scalp is cleansed of dead cells and excess sebum. Massage enhances the benefits of nutrients in hair care products and increases resistance to environmental damage. Hair becomes shinier, softer and less susceptible to contamination.
From the editor: Massage for headaches
At the same time, the following processes occur:
- stabilization of lymph flow, improving the removal of toxins from cells and removing swelling and stagnation in tissues;
- muscle relaxation;
- increasing the tone of the scalp;
- impact on superficial nerve receptors, which reflexively affects internal organs (remember acupressure);
- endorphins are produced, those same “happiness hormones”;
- the psycho-emotional state of a person is leveled out.
Thus, by reducing the overall stress state of the body through head massage, in particular, you can achieve increased growth of healthy hair.
Subtleties of massage
To make the procedure as effective and enjoyable as possible, it is important to know some subtleties:
- Essential and vegetable oils help moisturize the scalp, have a beneficial effect on hair follicles, and stimulate cellular metabolism. Aromatherapy calms an “excited” nervous system and helps fight stress. Ylang-ylang, lavender, orange, and bergamot oils are great for head massage.
- Gentle peeling before massage promotes the penetration of nutrients into the deep layers of the epidermis, opens pores, and removes dead skin cells. As a homemade scrub, you can use fine sea salt mixed with water. Rub the mixture into the roots using gentle circular motions for 3-5 minutes. Rinse off with running water.
- Prolonged head massage using oils provokes increased activity of the sebaceous glands, so it is recommended to carry out the procedure at night.
Using additional accessories
If the massage is carried out by a specialist in the salon, then it is carried out exclusively with the palms and fingers, or with a vacuum can. However, self-massage at home can benefit from aids.
Murashka
This simple and inexpensive hand massager has excellent anti-stress properties and is suitable for cosmetic procedures.
Using “goosebumps” is very simple:
- The massager should be placed on top of the head in the center and make smooth movements in different directions;
- During the procedure, you need to lightly press the handle or lift it up;
- the rounded tips of the “meridians” of the massager will glide over the scalp and stimulate the acceleration of blood flow.
It is recommended to continue the procedure using the “goosebumps” for about 5 minutes. Then sit quietly for another quarter of an hour.
With the help of goosebumps, you can even massage a child’s head, although ordinary massage practices for children are not recommended until they reach 12 years of age.
Laser comb
The laser comb is a modern device with complex action. The properties of the comb are especially useful for hair loss. It not only gently massages the skin with vibrating movements, but also affects the hair follicles with blue and red LED radiation, activating their growth.
When using the device, you must not forget that the massage movements are carried out from the top of the head towards the sides and to the back of the head. The total duration of the procedure should not exceed half an hour.
Comb vibrating massager
The device is a simplified version of a laser comb - without LED radiation, but only with vibration.
Use is very simple - move the comb from the crown down or to the sides, light vibration stimulates blood circulation and improves the condition of the scalp. The procedure should take about a quarter of an hour, just like a regular massage.
General rules for scalp massage against hair loss
- Before the massage, you need to thoroughly wash your hands and tidy up your nails - they should not be long and sharp, otherwise you risk injuring the skin.
- Massage for hair loss is carried out in a quiet, ventilated room in a calm environment. This allows you to escape from extraneous thoughts and relax.
- Before starting therapy, it is necessary to learn the correct technique for performing a head massage. Because chaotic, unsystematic finger movements are not enough to combat hair loss.
- The massage must be performed following the direction of hair growth.
- You can perform a scalp massage while sitting or lying down - it is important that the chosen position is comfortable.
How to do a head massage correctly
Any massage procedure consists of the same stroking and tapping movements. But, depending on the goals of the massage, their intensity may change; during therapeutic and cosmetic procedures, different areas of the head may be more or less involved.
For headaches and tension
For migraines and stiff neck muscles, a short acupressure massage of the head will greatly benefit
It is carried out for a total of about 6 minutes, and special attention is paid to the area of the temples and the area of the cranial fossa on the back of the neck
You need to perform the massage firmly, but carefully, using precise pressure with your fingers on the listed areas and on especially painful places. The duration of the press should be about 5 seconds. The back of the head must be massaged with rhythmic movements with the heel of the palm in the direction from the back of the head to the neck.
A correctly performed procedure will relieve muscle and vascular spasms, and the headache will subside without medication. At the end, it will be useful to lie down in a relaxed state for some time so that the beneficial properties of the massage can be fully realized.
Attention! If during the procedure the headache only intensifies, the massage must be stopped, otherwise the body will be harmed.
For hair growth and improved blood circulation
The main goal of a cosmetic massage is to awaken and activate the hair follicles. Therefore, here you need to act on the skin not pointwise, but make stroking movements that warm up the entire scalp.
- Before the procedure, for convenience, it is recommended to comb your hair and part it a short distance from the left ear. As the massage progresses, the parting will need to be gradually moved to the right side.
- A useful massage begins with lightly stroking the skin with your fingertips, then you need to move on to rubbing the skin with your knuckles.
- Then you can carefully gather the skin into folds and make several rolling movements towards the back of the head.
- The massage is completed with quick vibrating movements along the parting, which are performed with the fingertips.
Important! Massage can only be used if there are no inflammatory diseases of the scalp. If the skin is damaged and unhealthy, the properties of the procedure will be harmful.
Relaxing massage to relieve stress
The procedure is carried out using one of the popular methods using standard technology - from stroking to kneading and tapping
The only important nuance that needs to be remembered is that the main attention must be paid to the back of the head. It is she who is responsible for a person’s emotional state; stress, overexertion and fears accumulate in it.
A relaxing massage can be accompanied by aromatic incense and oils, and pleasant, quiet music.
During pregnancy
Proper head massage is very useful for pregnant women - it helps to relax and calm down, improves well-being and normalizes sleep. But you need to remember important rules.
- Massage during pregnancy should not be too intense. A significant acceleration of blood circulation will harm the expectant mother, as it can lead to miscarriage or early birth.
- The procedure should be done exclusively with light and stroking movements. You will have to avoid tapping and strong kneading to avoid harm.
- If there is the slightest discomfort during the procedure, it should be stopped immediately - deterioration in well-being can harm the fetus and affect its health.
Relaxing massage "Anti-stress"
The effect of stress is associated with an inevitable increase in the level of cortisol in the blood, which slows down the saturation of muscles with amino acids. The general nervous condition also causes muscle fibers to tense, causing physical discomfort. The cervical-collar area spasms the most, which can easily be soothed by a relaxing Anti-Stress massage, which helps a person quickly return to inner peace and harmony.
ANTI-STRESS MASSAGE METHOD SHVZ
When preparing to perform a therapeutic effect, the massage therapist prepares for a more gentle effect than that provided for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis and other diseases. Relaxing hand contact is associated only with gentle contact of low or medium force. The main effect is on the head area.
Sequence of performing the “Anti-stress” technique:
- Stroking.
Hands clasp your head, then they gradually descend to your shoulders (repeat 5 times). Then the impact is transferred to the neck: movements in a circle, carried out with the pads of the fingers, begin from the location of the first vertebra and reach the skin of the shoulder girdle. - Massage of the back of the head and ears.
The thumbs are placed behind the ears, while the other fingers are bent and slightly further away. The trajectory of the hand movement is from the behind-the-ear space to the center of the back of the head. Then a similar technique is repeated in the opposite direction (3 times). - Temple stimulation.
A similar movement in the CVZ area is performed up to the back of the head, but begins from the temple area. Working out the temporal part is an important part of anti-stress massage: impact on this area helps to quickly relieve headaches, which are often present with nervous tension. It is necessary to repeat the reception until a feeling of lightness appears. - Massage of the parietal area.
The fingers repeat a scratching-like movement directly in the area of the parietal part of the head. - Kneading the forehead.
The fingertips are placed on the area where hair begins to grow (face area), and the little fingers touch the eyebrows. Circular movements are gradually transferred to the right and left. Another option is to use two hands, but massage without moving the fingers. - Impact on the shoulder girdle.
The massage therapist moves his fists from the back of the head to the shoulder joint. The manipulation is repeated 8–10 times. - Finger rain.
A pleasant, relaxing procedure that relieves tension through rhythmic but light tapping of fingers over the entire surface of the head, neck and shoulders.
The recommended duration of massage for the cervical-collar area is 8–10 minutes. To enhance the relaxing effect, you can also use aromatic candles, quiet music and essential oils, which help to quickly distract from unpleasant thoughts and emotions.
Medical fact
Taking a course of relaxing massage helps to significantly increase stress resistance.
CONCLUSIONS
It is recommended to use this type of massage for anyone experiencing excessive mental or physical stress. You can also use anti-stress body massage if necessary occasionally, if you have to deal with exciting situations only occasionally. An additional pleasant effect is a change in a person’s attitude towards a stressful situation after therapeutic stimulation. Relaxation and recuperation help make the problem less significant or find ways to get rid of it faster.
How to do a head massage
The head massage technique is simple to perform:
Light strokes from the forehead to the back of the head 3-4 times. This technique will awaken the nerve endings and warm up the scalp.
From the editor: How to learn speed reading and develop long-term memory
Deeper and more intense strokes along the same trajectory. Movement cleanses the ducts of the sebaceous glands and activates metabolism.
Rubbing in a circle and in a zigzag with the right palm. During this, the left hand holds the patient's head.
Continuous vibration techniques. Performed using the pads of the index and middle fingers. They hit the scalp easily and quickly. The trajectory is along the parting. When the reception is over, the specialist makes another parting, retreating a couple of centimeters, and continues the blows.
Acupressure head massage: benefits
Acupressure head massage does not require additional equipment; anyone can easily perform it at home. The technique involves working on certain biologically active points on the head for a few seconds. The pressure should be moderate, gradually increasing.
Active points:
- two points on the sides of the wings of the nose;
- point on left temple;
- two points on the hairline, located above the middle of the eyebrows symmetrically from the center of the forehead;
- four points on the back of the neck at the hairline;
- point on the back of the head;
- three points on the upper surface of the skull, located in a straight line from the nose.
Massaging these points will help relieve headaches, stress and fatigue. In addition, after the session, blood circulation will noticeably improve.
Massage of the head and collar area to improve blood circulation
The procedure to enhance blood flow lasts no more than three minutes, the course consists of daily massage sessions. The patient is in a sitting position or lies on a flat surface.
The massage begins from the cervical region. The sides of the neck are stroked, rubbed and kneaded first, then the back surface. The front surface of the neck should be massaged gently, without much effort. Movements are smooth, neat and slow.
Next the chest is worked on. Classic movements are used, intensity is medium, trajectory is from top to bottom.
Finally, the massage therapist works on the back and front surfaces of the shoulder girdle. From behind, movements should be directed from top to bottom, and from the front, from bottom to top.
The effect of the procedure is noticeable after the first sessions. A person begins to feel much better, the “fog in the head” disappears, apathy goes away, a good mood and a desire to act appear.
Express massage in a sitting position (massage at the workplace)
Self-massage is a procedure designed to replace the therapeutic effect provided by a massage therapist. It is also useful to acquire the skill of self-massage of the neck and shoulders to relieve spasms during the working day. Restoring good health may be necessary both during a hike and before performing physical exercises, which sometimes - without warming up the muscles - cause discomfort in the body. Anyone can quickly master the technique performed with their own hands, thanks to relatively simple techniques that are easy to repeat.
METHOD OF PERFORMING EXPRESS MASSAGE SHVZ WITH YOUR OWN HANDS
Muscle stimulation is carried out in a short time - up to 5 minutes, so to achieve a quick result, the impact is on the main zones in which tension is most often formed. Accelerated massage is performed through clothing, so predominantly pressure techniques are used, while grasping and pulling the skin is more difficult to achieve without direct contact with the skin.
Express self-massage technique:
- Stroking.
Stroking manipulations are performed 2-3 times from the head to the shoulder joint. - Trituration.
Use your fingertips to rub your neck using circular movements. - Shoulder warm-up.
With slightly bent fingers, apply pressure with all fingers, first on one shoulder, then on the other. - Patting.
The entire part of the CVZ, accessible for independent influence, is worked through with rhythmic touches during express massage. - Tingling.
The area of the neck and back, not covered by clothing, is slightly pulled in places of local impact (in a chaotic manner). - Rubbing the trapezius muscle.
Hands are placed on the edges of the 7th vertebra in order to then warm up (grip) the muscles. - Stroking.
The massage ends with a series of light touches.
Important
Hands are actively warmed up while performing self-massage, which gives an auxiliary positive effect - the prevention of “tunnel syndrome” (excessive tension in the hand).
After completing the express massage, you can quickly return to your work duties. A surge of strength and clarity of consciousness appear within 2–3 minutes, and a decrease in tension can be felt even while performing the therapeutic technique.
TECHNIQUES OF PERFORMING OFFICE MASSAGE BY AN ASSISTANT
The entire process listed above is repeated by a massage therapist or work colleague, but the arsenal of additional manipulations available for use is significantly expanded.
Auxiliary techniques:
- Raising the shoulders.
The masseur grabs them from both sides and then “drops them”. The number of repetitions is 3–5. - Shoulder extension.
Shifting the shoulder girdle back leads to restoration of posture and relief of tension. - Pressure on the supraspinatus fossa.
Starting with this technique, the patient leans on the table and tilts his head slightly. The masseur rests on the upper back and massages the cervical-collar area in the area of these pits (with his thumb). The pressure lasts 4 s, then the impact is shifted horizontally by 2–3 cm and repeated until the edge of the shoulder blades is reached. - Pressing along the lines from the spine.
A similar manipulation, including an indentation, is performed from the 7th cervical vertebra to the middle of the back (along the vertical plane). - Chopping.
A light vibrating effect is carried out by the ribs of the palms, which alternately touch the back. The reception lasts up to 2–3 minutes.
Interesting fact!
Express massage, which is carried out at least 2 times a week, reduces the level of cortisol in the blood and increases the employee’s intellectual abilities.
You can perform express massage on an office chair, but the development of the service sector has allowed the emergence of an unusual type of office massage, which is performed on special folding furniture. The device has protrusions for the face, like a real massage chair, but the position of the person is maintained in a sitting position.
Despite the convenience of the method, not all employers are ready to allow employees to rest in this way.
CONCLUSIONS
Increasing mental and physical activity, relieving spasms and eliminating reduced blood supply to the brain are just a small part of the positive effects that are observed after just a couple of sessions. Want to learn massage techniques on the job? The practicing massage therapist presented in the video shares all the existing subtleties and nuances that are necessary for the effective implementation of the treatment procedure. As soon as you begin to apply effective advice in practice, you will definitely feel a significant improvement in your well-being, increase your productivity and prevent the development of cervical osteochondrosis.
Rules and techniques of execution
The easiest way to massage is to use your own fingers, but there is always a risk of influencing the wrong points, resulting in a migraine instead of a therapeutic effect. Familiarize yourself with the methodology and rules for performing the procedure:
- Carry out a massage before or during washing. This will allow the beneficial components in the shampoo to be better absorbed into the roots. Those with dry hair can also massage after washing, since the procedure activates the production of sebum.
- Start the massage with warming circular movements (they should be light) in the temporal areas and at the top of the forehead (hair growth line), gradually increasing their intensity and pressure, and moving on to the hairline. Finish the session with soft strokes again.
- The duration of the procedure is from 10 to 15 minutes. It is not recommended to increase the time, and if the session is carried out “in a hurry,” the effect will be minimal. The frequency of massaging is at least twice every 14 days.
- Movements are performed in the direction of growth of the strands. The massage therapist places his hands on top of the hair, as close to the roots as possible. The exception is the case when manipulation is carried out to treat seborrhea: then the fingers should directly touch the skin.
- Massage with warm fingers. In addition, to speed up blood circulation, you can drink hot tea before the procedure (regular or herbal - chamomile, sage, lemon balm, linden, etc.)
Stroking
The simplest technique, which consists of the massage therapist performing gentle and soft strokes from the forehead to the back of the head. Then similar movements are made from the parietal part to the ears, in the direction of hair growth. This massage helps improve blood flow. Ten minutes of stroking is enough to stimulate metabolic processes. In addition to accelerating hair growth, stroking helps improve skin condition.
Trituration
The effect on the dermis and roots is performed using the fingertips. Rubbing includes up and down movements, circular movements, and pressure. Start with the area behind the ears, then move to the neck, near the hairline. Next they move to the temples, then to the crown and forehead. A few minutes of rubbing activate the sebaceous glands, so after finishing the procedure you should immediately wash your hair.
Pat
This technique tones the skin. It is not for nothing that a similar technique is used for body massage. In order for the pats to be correct, four fingertips of each hand are used. The remaining two, large ones, carry out fixation in a certain area. The technique is not intensive, all you need to do is gentle pats in different parts of the head. The session takes no more than five minutes.
Reaching out
A special technique provides rapid blood flow to the roots, which is guaranteed to accelerate hair growth. The execution of this technique is as follows:
- Grab a single strand with your fingers.
- Slowly, slightly stretching each bundle, pull it up.
- Add small oscillating movements to feel the tension on the roots.
Combing
The process that is used to tidy up the curls has a beneficial effect on the scalp, but it must be done correctly. For therapeutic purposes, use a comb or massage comb, but with natural bristles. You can drop a little essential oil on the product: lavender or tea tree. Comb your strands slowly and consistently, enjoying the process. This will thoroughly remove dust from your hair and distribute sebum along the entire length. Regular combing will make your strands healthy, smooth and beautiful.
Removing the “withers” with a massage of the cervical spine
“Withers” is a general designation for the protrusion on the upper back, on which a semblance of a hump appears. An aesthetic defect is formed due to the accumulation of fatty deposits, which do not disappear even with weight loss. Massage is an effective way to help safely break down and remove excess substances in the collar area. The procedure is useful for men and women interested in how to remove the withers easily and quickly.
TECHNIQUES FOR RIDING THE WITHERS
Before starting the procedure, follow the classic recommendations for preparing for the massage. You can also enhance the effect of the procedure below by performing special head movements (several hours after the session). The manipulations are similar to those that are performed during communication with an interlocutor - with agreement (up and down), disapproval (right and left) or remark (“Ay-ay-ay”, as when addressing a child). Each type of exercise is performed at least 30 times.
Algorithm for performing the basic technique:
- Stroking.
Surface contact of the palms, carried out from top to bottom, helps relax the muscles. Stroking is performed from 7 to 10 times. - Trituration.
The massage therapist performs rotational movements from the back of the head to the shoulders. If subcutaneous seals are detected in these areas, a longer local effect is performed. Rotating the fingers in place is performed in order to remove the withers thanks to an exercise that greatly accelerates the destruction (splitting) of subcutaneous deposits. - Cupping massage.
Outlining an invisible triangle with the apex pointing downwards, the cup is moved (clockwise and then counterclockwise) to increase blood flow, which helps break down subcutaneous salt and fat. After exposure (for 1 minute), the rubbing procedure is repeated. - Massage with fists.
The specialist runs his clenched fingers from the neck to the shoulders from top to bottom (simultaneously on both sides of the spinal column). Repeat - 3-5 times. After exposure, the cupping massage is repeated again. - Squeezing.
The entire palm is placed on the upper back and then squeezed. Repeat 5–10 times. - Repeated stroking.
Relaxation manipulation prepares muscles for the everyday rhythm of life.
Attention
In more than 80% of cases, the formation of “withers” is combined with the appearance and worsening of cervical osteochondrosis.
If you do not massage the cervical-collar area in the presence of a widow’s hump (the name of the aesthetic effect is used in common speech), then pain will be added to the visual defect.
An increase in growth provokes the consolidation of the habit of slouching, and also leads to compression of the artery that supplies the brain.
CONCLUSIONS
After eliminating the lump, the patient is recommended to sign up for preventive massage courses 1-2 times a year so that the protrusion on the back does not reappear. You can also get general information on how to remove the withers on the neck and make the collar area aesthetically attractive using a video where the method is demonstrated by Anna Kurkurina. A professional athlete and coach shows the technique in great detail, but in the most succinct and interesting way.