Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2026

Spring 2026 • 43

shoulders.” –Glynnis Osher, a certified IHM and Ayurvedic Practitioner. The role of marma points in IHM . IHM is based on 107 marma points in the body, 37 of which are on the head, shoulders, face and upper chest. Marma points are considered energy centers located where types of tissues meet, such as ligaments, joints and bones. They are similar to acupressure points, but where acupressure points are linked to meridians, marma points are linked to chakras. In antiquity, marma points were believed to improve circulation and strengthen the digestive, cardiac, endocrine and immunological systems. Massaging the marma points was thought to lead to improved energy flow and organ functionality. The Benefits + Contraindications of IHM for Various Client Populations Some common benefits of and indications for IHM are listed below. 16 This list is not exhaustive, but will give clients who are interested in IHM a better idea of what to expect. • May promote hair growth by increasing oxygen in the hair follicles, which stimulates growth and health. 16 • Renews energy levels. 16 • Releases tension and reduces stress. 17 • May help with tinnitus. 18 If your client is experiencing any of the following, IHM is contraindicated . • Recent head or neck injury • Epilepsy • Contagious or infectious diseases • Scalp conditions • Fever/illness • Head lice • Conjunctivitis • Cervical spondylitis • Anaphylaxis vertigo • Active migraine/headache • Arthritis or osteoporosis in treatment area • Cancer • Deep vein thrombosis • Cardiovascular conditions including high or low blood pressure

• Heart conditions • Pregnancy Clients may experience any of the following after IHM : • Tiredness • Increased urination • Aching/soreness • Cleansing—the digestive system may speed up leading to sweating, passing of stools, spots, rashes, cold and flu like symptoms • Dizziness—as blood pressure lowers Sample Massage Protocol for IHM Before starting a massage session that includes IHM, massage therapists need to be prepared. • Complete a thorough client intake that includes health conditions, medications used and any recent injuries, to name a few. • Have your client remove jewelry like necklaces and earrings that may interfere with IHM. • With the information gathered during intake, talk to your client about their goals for the session and what they are hoping to accomplish, as you want to be able to manage expectations. • Finally, have the client take a seat and get comfortable and remind them about what they can expect. Let them know that they should make you aware of any discomfort.

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