Anti-Stress Technique That Reduces Cortisol Better Than a Full-Body Massage
Scalp massage is the fastest and most effective way to achieve mental relaxation – two psychologists explain why and how to get the maximum benefits.
“Scalp massage is particularly effective in promoting psychological well-being and mental relaxation,” says Silvia Dal Ben, a psychoanalytically oriented psychologist and clinical director of the online psychological service Unobravo in Spain.
This technique goes beyond traditional scalp care and hair growth stimulation – it has a direct impact on the nervous system and can quickly reduce stress levels. Moreover, it represents one of the most complete self-care experiences, as it involves the body, mind, and emotions.
What Is a Scalp Massage
Scalp massage is a practice that consists of gentle movements and pressure – with fingers or special tools – over the entire area of the scalp where hair follicles are located. In addition to improving microcirculation and promoting hair health, this technique is considered an effective method for achieving relaxation and stress reduction, with positive effects on depression and anxiety.
Why Scalp Massage Has a Relaxing Effect
“When we physically and emotionally dedicate time to our head, the whole body feels it. It’s a way to reconnect with ourselves, slow down, and remember that mental well-being is the foundation of health,” says psychologist Laura Villanueva.
This effect also has a clear scientific explanation, adds Dal Ben. “The scalp is one of the regions with the highest concentration of nerve endings in the entire body. This means that massage in this area induces an immediate feeling of pleasure and deep relaxation. Stimulating these nerve endings activates blood circulation, relieves muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, and most importantly – reduces cortisol, the stress hormone,” she explains.
According to Villanueva, the key to the effectiveness of scalp massage lies in its action on the parasympathetic nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve – the cranial nerve that stimulates calm, relaxation, rest, digestion, and energy storage.
“By acting on the scalp, not only is physical tension relieved, but psychological mechanisms associated with comfort and safety are activated,” explains the expert. She particularly emphasizes the emotional dimension of hair touch.
“As children, we are often caressed on the head. That’s why scalp massage evokes feelings of tenderness and care. When our hair is touched with attention and gentleness, cortisol levels drop, and mood improves,” Villanueva notes.
What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Scalp Massage
The benefits of scalp massage for psychological well-being can be summarized as follows:
Reduces stress: activates the body’s physiological relaxation response and lowers cortisol levels.
Improves mood: during the massage, the brain releases endorphins, the neurotransmitters known as “happiness hormones.”
Enhances emotional well-being: provides a sense of comfort and safety, helping to relieve anxiety and depression.
How to Massage the Scalp
There are several techniques for performing a scalp massage. Here are some of the most common:
Scalp Massage Techniques
Circular movements: use your fingertips to make gentle circular motions across the scalp with light pressure.
Zigzag movements: move your fingers back and forth across the scalp following a zigzag pattern.
Pressure with fingertips: apply gentle pressure with your fingertips on different points of the scalp, holding the pressure for a few seconds on each point.
Tapping: use your fingertips to lightly tap the scalp.
How to Make Scalp Massage Even More Effective
To maximize the positive effects of scalp massage, Villanueva recommends the following:
Choose the right time: don’t rush – massage when you have time and can be fully present in the moment.
Massage for at least 5 minutes: for the massage to be truly effective, it should last at least 5 minutes.
Use oil: applying hair oil before the massage makes the experience more pleasant and relaxing.
Be gentle: avoid too much pressure to prevent scalp irritation.
What’s Better: Body Massage or Scalp Massage?
Does scalp massage have a more relaxing effect than a traditional body massage? According to Silvia Dal Ben, there is no single answer: “Each type of massage has its own purpose. For example, body massage is great for relaxing muscles and relieving tension. The advantage of scalp massage is that it directly affects psychological stress and mental well-being. That’s why it can be more effective when the goal is to quickly calm the mind,” she explains.
Another important benefit is its practicality: you can easily perform a scalp massage at home using just your fingertips or tools like a massage brush.
“It’s one of the simplest and most accessible ways to incorporate emotional well-being into your daily routine,” concludes Dal Ben, as reported by Zadovoljna.rs.
