Abstract
Objective:
To clarify the physical and psychological effects of head massage performed in the supine position using Ayurveda-based techniques (head treatment).
Design:
Twenty-four healthy female students were included in the study. Using a crossover study design, the same participants were enrolled in both the head treatment intervention group and control group. There was an interval of 1 week or more between measurements.
Outcome measures:
The physiologic indices measured included blood pressure and heart rate fluctuations (high frequency and low frequency/high frequency). The psychological markers measured included liveliness, depression, and boredom using the visual analogue scale method. State anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory method.
Results:
The parasympathetic nerve activity increased immediately after head treatment. Upon completion of head treatment, the parasympathetic nerve predominance tended to gradually ease. Head treatment boosted freshness and relieved anxiety.
Conclusions:
The results suggest that head treatment has a relaxing and refreshing effect and may be used to provide comfort.
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