Champi Goes Global: Ed Sheeran And The Worldwide Rise Of The Indian Head Massage

I am not the only one who let out a giggle when I saw the viral video of the singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran getting a champi recently. And no, he couldn't stop laughing midway either, and, sure enough he tuned red.

CHAMPI: pronounced ‘CH- AE MPiy’ has been a staple of Indian barbershops for years now.

As a child I dreaded the oily stickiness of the champi and would run away, only for my mother to catch me and firmly sit me down, rubbing in some ayurvedic wisdom with an oil massage. She would gently rub my scalp in rhythmic precision using the tips of her fingers to stimulate pressure points.

I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t exhilarating. After a tiring day, I'd always drift into the best sleep. So, what is it about this good old-fashioned, no-frills head massage technique that has caught attention of tourists in India?

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A quick YouTube search would show you how tourists are eagerly and enthusiastically getting in on a knock or two (or three) of the rhythmic head-thumping, or shall we say, head-champi-ing! Moreover, this form of self-care has become a goldmine for ASMR enthusiasts, ranging, from street-side to high-end spas!

More Than Just A Head Massage!

Once a simple wellness technique often practiced in men's barbershops, the traditional head massage is going luxe, as people seek authentic relaxation and stress relief. So, what makes it effective, and why is it suddenly so popular?

Some reasons why Indian head massage technique is fabulous:

• It’s designed to stimulate circulation

• Helps relieve tension

• Boosts hair and scalp health through targeted pressure points

• Activates parasympathetic nervous system

• Helps recover from stressors, fatigue, and even headaches

The combination of kneading, tapping, and deep scalp work is a time-tested technique.  All you need is a pair of skilled hands and a bottle of the right nourishing oil that bring luxury and efficacy to this age-old ritual.

Head Massage Oils

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Forest Essentials Ayurvedic Herb Enriched Head Massage Oil- Bhringraj

Price range: ₹1,895 (200 ml)

OLAPLEX No.7 Bonding Oil by Olaplex Oil

Price range: ₹2,720 (30 ml)

Beauty Garage Pure African Shea Retention Treatment Hair Oil

Price: ₹2,793 (100ml)

Kalimera Gold Herbal Natural Hair Oil-24K Gold

Price: ₹10,000 (50 gm)

Global Beauty Secrets Baha Hibiscus Hair Dew

Price: ₹1,900 (100ml)