A relaxation technique designed to restore the natural "flow" from head to shoulders. This manual builds knowledge step by step — from foundational safety principles to therapist posture, the complete session flow, and in-depth technique guidance.
This is not intended as medical or therapeutic treatment. It is a care practice that prioritizes comfort above all else.
The Complete Session Flow (60-Minute Model)
1
① Welcome & Brief Consultation 0–5 min
Check today's condition, sleep quality, neck/shoulder tension, and scalp condition. Set the lighting, sound, and scent to create a safe, welcoming space.
2
② Positioning & Towel Work 5–10 min
Adjust chair and head support height/angle to the client's build. Place a warm towel from neck to shoulders.
3
③ Introductory Head Touch 10–20 min
Progress from the forehead to the crown and temples, releasing mental tension and preparing the body to enter the overall flow.
4
④ Occiput to Nape 20–35 min
Focus on the occipital muscles and suboccipital group, flowing diagonally upward from the base of the neck toward the occiput.
5
⑤ Anterior Neck to Clavicle 35–45 min
Stroke the sternocleidomastoid muscle in a line from behind the ear down to the clavicle, deepening the breath.
6
⑥ Shoulders & Trapezius 45–55 min
Apply surface pressure from the posterior neck outward toward the shoulder tips, releasing stagnation in the shoulders.
7
⑦ Cool-Down & Closing 55–60 min
Rest both palms on the crown, synchronize breathing, slowly bring the client upright, and offer aftercare suggestions.
Key Principles: Comfortable Continuity
Comfort Over Strength
Prioritize "flow and rhythm" over excessive pressure. Aim for the sensation of being gently enveloped and released — not "pleasantly painful."
Hold · Flow · Wrap
Use point pressure to reach deep layers, flow pressure to connect points into lines, and wrap pressure to quietly settle. Blend these three techniques smoothly.
Synchronize with Breath
The therapist's own breath sets the tempo. Regulate the speed of contact, release, and pause through breathing to achieve harmony with the client.
Therapist Posture & Center of Gravity
Transmitting Pressure from the Core
The foundation of quality treatment is transmitting pressure from the core — not relying on arm strength. Keep knees soft, place your center of gravity at the hara (lower abdomen), maintain consistent elbow height, and avoid raising the shoulders.
Maintain a balanced stance — not too wide, not too narrow. Always warm cold hands before touching the client to provide a sense of security. Breath functions as the tempo-setter for the entire session.
Posture Checklist
Keep elbow height consistent
Release tension from the shoulders
Place center of gravity at the hara
Stance: neither too wide nor too narrow
Correct posture also reduces therapist fatigue, maintaining quality even during extended sessions.
Foundational Anatomy
Skeletal Structure
Understand the position and relationships of the frontal bone, parietal bone, temporal bone, occipital bone, cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, clavicle, and scapula. These directly inform where and how to touch.
Muscle System
Know the location and function of the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, splenius capitis, levator scapulae, and suboccipital group. This guides decisions on point, surface, or flow pressure.
Circulation & Nervous System
Understand the carotid and vertebral arteries, jugular vein, lymph nodes (occipital, parotid, submandibular), and the occipital, trigeminal, and vagus nerves — to apply pressure that creates relief, not pain.
Energy & Meridian Perspective
The Flow of Qi
Qi is understood as the "flow" that sustains life. In practice, be mindful of the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai), Governing Vessel (Du Mai), and the Bladder, Gallbladder, and Triple Warmer meridians that run through the head.
Practical Application
Apply this concept simply as "design that does not disturb the flow." Connect points (pressure) along lines (meridians) and settle with surface (wrap pressure). Using Eastern medicine theory as a modern relaxation technique deepens the healing effect.
"Design that does not disturb the flow" is the secret to true comfort.
The Pressure Design Blueprint
1
Point Pressure
A technique of "placing" on acupoints or deep layers. Use the pad of the thumb or middle finger, slowly and without rushing. Synchronize with breath: apply → hold → release.
2
Surface Pressure
A technique of "wrapping" a broad area. Stabilize with the palm or four fingers to give the client a sense of security. Especially effective during finishing or transitions.
3
Flow Pressure
A technique of "connecting points with lines." Maintain unidirectional movement — from temples to occiput, from crown — creating a smooth, continuous flow.
4
Wrap Pressure
A technique of "settling" through stillness. Gently envelop with the entire palm to guide the client into a state of deep relaxation.
Excessive pressure is always counterproductive. Comfort is the top priority.
Technique Points by Area
Forehead (Frontalis)
Technique: Flow upward from above the brow to the hairline Intent: Quiet the mind and ease mental tension
Temples (Temporalis)
Technique: Draw circles from the temples upward to the crown Intent: Release jaw clenching and tension
Occiput to Nape
Technique: Flow diagonally upward from the base of the neck to the occiput Intent: Release deep eye and neck fatigue
Sternocleidomastoid
Technique: Stroke from behind the ear down to the clavicle Intent: Gently promote circulation and deepen breathing
Trapezius
Technique: Flow outward from the posterior neck to the shoulder tips Intent: Send accumulated tension outward, lighten the shoulders
Common Pitfalls & Recovery
Pressure Too Strong / Releasing Too Suddenly
Solution: Adjust the timing of "apply → hold → release" using breath as the standard. Matching the client's breathing rhythm achieves natural, comfortable pressure.
Hands Wandering (Hesitant Touch)
Solution: Verbally confirm the route in advance — crown → temples → occiput → neck → shoulders. A clear mental map enables confident, decisive touch.
Fatigue from Poor Posture
Solution: Return to fixed elbows and pelvis-led posture. Adjust stance to "neither too wide nor too narrow" and maintain the fundamental posture of transmitting force from the core.
During practice, conduct mutual checks to gain objective perspective and improve technique.
Self-Care Suggestions & Practice Exercises
Post-Session Mini Self-Care
01
3-Breath Rule Before Sleep
Inhale through nose 4 sec → hold 4 sec → exhale 8 sec. Repeat 3 times.
02
Hydration
Drink a glass of water after the session to promote internal circulation.
03
Maintain Stillness
Avoid shampooing at night to preserve the relaxed state.
Mini Practice Exercises
Flow Recitation: Explain the sequence crown → temples → occiput → neck → shoulders in 30 seconds
Pressure Triplet: Mutual check of apply (2 beats) → hold (2 beats) → release (2 beats)
Posture Self-Check: Use a mirror or video to verify elbow height, shoulder tension, and stance
Safety Note: Avoid treatment if the client has skin issues, strong pain, or dizziness. The therapist must maintain calm, steady breathing throughout.