Head massage: ease headaches and stress in 10 minutes

Tension headaches usually start in the neck, jaw and scalp muscles – exactly where a head massage works. This 10-minute routine needs no oil, works on a chair, and is easy to learn.

The 10-minute routine

1. Shoulders & neck (2 min): start where headaches are born – knead the upper trapezius as in the neck massage guide.
2. Base of the skull (2 min): fingertips of both hands make slow circles along the bony ridge behind the ears to the center.
3. Scalp (3 min): spread your fingers and move the whole scalp in slow circles – shift positions like shampooing. The scalp should move, not the fingers rubbing over it.
4. Temples (1 min): two or three fingertips, very light circles – less pressure is more here.
5. Jaw (1 min): find the chewing muscle (clench briefly to locate it) and make gentle circles – a hidden headache trigger for teeth-grinders.
6. Finish (1 min): stroke from forehead over the crown to the neck.

Why it works

Tension-type headaches are frequently driven by tight neck, jaw and scalp muscles. Massage improves blood flow and lowers muscle tone – often noticeable within minutes. For recurring headaches, also address the underlying muscle tension.

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