At Mad Head Spa, we know how deeply a head treatment can help you feel calm, grounded, and refreshed. But beyond the soothing experience, there’s research exploring what actually happens in the body during a head treatment — especially when it’s performed with intention and professional care.

A scientific study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine investigated the physical and psychological effects of a head treatment using specialized techniques similar to traditional Indian head massage. The goal was to understand whether these treatments do more than feel nice — and the results are meaningful.

What the Study Found

In the study, participants received a structured head treatment while lying in a comfortable position. Researchers tracked both physiological responses (like heart rate patterns) and psychological markers (such as feelings of freshness and anxiety).

Here’s what the research revealed:

• Parasympathetic activity increased right after treatment. This is the branch of the nervous system involved in relaxation and restoration.

• Participants reported feeling more refreshed and less anxious after the session.

• These effects continued — showing that the calming benefits aren’t just immediate, but may help with overall comfort and stress regulation.

In simple terms, this study suggests that a well-executed head treatment can activate the body’s natural relaxation response and help your mind feel more at ease.

Why This Matters for Scalp and Head Spa Care

We often talk about head treatments as a way to support scalp balance, circulation, and stress relief, and this research gives context to those claims:

• Relaxation isn’t just subjective — there’s a measurable response in the nervous system.

• Practices that engage the scalp and surrounding tissues can help prompt a shift toward calm.

• Feeling refreshed and less anxious supports your overall spa experience and well-being.

This doesn’t mean that head treatments are a medical treatment — but it does show that they can offer real, measurable comfort and relaxation effects, which many clients describe as a key part of feeling healthier and more centered.

In Summary

Head spa treatments do more than feel luxurious. Research shows they may:

• Promote nervous system relaxation

• Increase feelings of refreshment and calm

• Support your overall sense of comfort and well-being

At Mad Head Spa, we blend ritual, touch, and intention to create experiences that are both deeply soothing and thoughtfully crafted for your scalp and mind.

References

Study cited:
Murota M, Iwawaki Y, Uebaba K, et al. Physical and Psychological Effects of Head Treatment in the Supine Position Using Specialized Ayurveda-Based Techniques. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2016. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4939366/