Shirodhara Therapy - Relief from mental & physical stress

Shirodhara is one of the most effective purification and rejuvenation therapies in Panchakarma. It is an amazingly relaxing therapy which gently releases stress and tension from the mind and body. The word shirodhara if broken into two denotes “shiro” meaning head and “dhara” which mean stream. Therefore, shirodhara is an even flowing (streaming) of oil over the forehead for an extended period of time for relaxation, rejuvenation and healing. This technique aims to bring physical and emotional balance by rejuvenating the spirit and preserving health.

There are four types of specialized forms of shirodhara known as tailadhara, ksheeradhara, takradhara and jaladhara. It is a form of external snehana or oleation for the body.

How shirodhara works

Shirodhara works primarily on the vata nadi sanstha or the nervous system, as it is referred to in Ayurveda. Shirodhara is traditionally used to calm the nerves, balance vata constitutions, strengthen the nerves, release stored emotions, and purify the mind. In Ayurvedic treatment, it is considered an important tool in the pursuit of higher states of consciousness. Shirodhara is one of the best therapies for providing relief in migraine.

How is shirodhara done

Step 1.

You sit down in a relaxed manner as you listen to soothing music in the background. The serene ambience calms the nerves and relaxes you.

Step 2.

A rhythmic stream of medicated oils at a specified temperature from a specified height is poured on the middle of the forehead. The warm oil helps to calm aggravated vata in the nervous system.

Step 3.

The procedure lasts for 30-35 minutes and is followed by an Ayurvedic head massage. The practitioner will work on the specific marma points to help stabilise nervous function, inducing calmness, and helping the mind become bright and clear.