As a massage therapist, this is a tip I share often because it’s simple, effective, and easy to do at home. I especially recommend it for tension headaches — the kind that tend to show up after a poor night’s sleep, prolonged screen time, muscle tension, or periods of stress.
What Does Pulling the Hair Accomplish?
First, let me describe the landscape. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds bones, tendons, and muscles, and it’s woven throughout the entire body. The scalp and skull are covered in fascia, muscles, cranial nerves, and other important structures. When fascia is healthy, it’s pliable and moves freely. Certain conditions, however, can cause it to become dense and restricted.
Tension or inflammation in the neck and shoulder muscles can also affect the health of the fascia surrounding the scalp and skull. By gently pulling the hair, you help lift the scalp and underlying fascia, creating space and encouraging circulation. This can help relieve pressure on inflamed structures and improve fluid movement in the area.
The Technique
- Sit comfortably in a quiet, relaxed space.
- Take a broad section of hair, beginning at the base of the skull (or any area that feels tense).
- Gently pull the hair diagonally at first, then in different directions, gradually increasing tension as tolerated.
- Breathe deeply and rhythmically throughout the process.
- Continue section by section, moving row by row across the scalp.
That’s it — simple and effective.
You can also add aromatherapy to enhance the experience. Many times, muscles in the neck and shoulders harbor trigger points that refer pain into the head and scalp area. If you experience frequent headaches, working with a massage therapist skilled in trigger point therapy may help you manage them more holistically and reduce reliance on over-the-counter medication.
If you’re looking for a massage therapist and live in New York City or Westchester County, feel free to send me a message.
Thanks for reading!
Corina