Indian head massage is a seated treatment that works on the scalp, neck, shoulders and upper back. Most people book it for the tension that builds up there from desk work, screen time and stress. It won’t fix a medical problem, but for a lot of people a session leaves the head and shoulders noticeably less tight, and it’s an easy one to fit into a lunch break because you stay clothed and no oils are used.
At Priority One Osteo and Wellness in Burlington, indian head massage is given by Kaylan Hawkins. It sits alongside our osteopathy, massage therapy and reflexology, so if the tension you’re carrying turns out to need a different approach, we can point you there.
What a session actually involves
You sit in a supported chair, or lie down if you’d rather. Kaylan works with her hands through a sequence of movements on the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp and face, adjusting the pressure to what feels right for you. There’s no equipment and nothing to undress for.
A session runs 40 minutes and costs $60 plus HST. You can book it on its own or add it to another appointment.
The areas it focuses on:
- The upper back and shoulders, where posture tension settles
- The base of the skull and the neck
- The scalp
- The face and jaw, if you tend to clench
What people book it for
The most common reasons we hear:
- Shoulder and neck tightness that builds through the work week
- Tension that sits at the base of the skull after long hours at a screen
- Jaw and temple tightness from clenching
- Wanting a way to slow down that doesn’t involve a full-body massage
- Trouble winding down at the end of the day
If your neck pain is more than everyday tightness, it’s worth reading how our osteopaths look at neck pain, since a persistent problem usually needs a structural assessment rather than relaxation work.
Indian head massage and tension headaches
People often ask whether it helps with headaches. For tension-type headaches that are linked to tight neck and shoulder muscles, many people do report some relief, though it varies from person to person and it isn’t a treatment for headaches as a medical condition. Our page on headaches and osteopathy covers the difference, including the signs that mean you should see a doctor rather than book a massage.
Working with Kaylan
Kaylan Hawkins has practised indian head massage for four years, trained through Reflex the Sole. She’s also a Thai reflexology practitioner (Emitting Wellness) and is registered with the Reflexology Registration Council of Ontario (RRCO). She’s a Reiki Master and a certified life coach, both through Mode School. Her background is in child and youth work, with a diploma from Niagara College.
If you want a treatment that combines scalp and foot work, Kaylan also offers reflexology at the clinic. She teaches indian head massage too: our training for wellness practitioners runs from the Burlington clinic.
You can read more about her on her profile.
Where it fits with everything else
Priority One is a wellness hub, and indian head massage is one of the gentler options on the menu. It pairs well with other care rather than replacing it.
If tight muscles through the whole upper body are the bigger issue, registered massage therapy covers more ground and can be direct-billed to many benefit plans. If the tension keeps coming back no matter what you do, that’s usually a sign something structural is driving it, and an osteopathy assessment is the better starting point. Kaylan or anyone at the front desk can help you figure out which one to book.
Who it suits
Indian head massage is gentle and non-invasive, so it works for most adults. It’s a good fit if you:
- Work at a desk or spend long stretches on a screen
- Carry stress in your neck, shoulders and jaw
- Want a shorter treatment you can do on a break
- Are new to bodywork and want somewhere easy to start
If you’re pregnant, have a scalp condition, or have had recent neck or head injuries, tell us when you book so Kaylan can adjust the session or suggest something else.
Frequently asked questions
Is indian head massage relaxing?
For most people, yes. The pace is slow and the pressure is adjustable, and a lot of people find it easier to switch off during a head and shoulder treatment than a full-body one.
How long is a session and what does it cost?
40 minutes, $60 plus HST. You can book it alone or add it onto another appointment.
Do I need to undress or use oil?
No. You stay clothed and Kaylan works without oils, so you can go straight back to your day afterwards.
Can it help with tension headaches?
It may help when the headache is tied to tight neck and shoulder muscles, though results vary. It isn’t a medical treatment for headache, and anything sudden, severe or unusual should be checked by a doctor first.
Can I have it during pregnancy?
Often yes, with adjustments. Let us know when you book so Kaylan can tailor the session.
Book indian head massage in Burlington
If neck, shoulder and scalp tension is building up and you want a straightforward way to ease it, indian head massage with Kaylan is an easy place to start. We’re at 600 Brant St, Unit 101 in Burlington. Book online through Noterro or call the clinic at 905-808-9231.
Book indian head massage at Priority One
