Shirodhara Massage – An Ayurvedic Approach to Healing

Shirodhara – What a Spiritual Experience

Ayurvedic medicine (in short “Ayurveda”) is a form of holistic medicinal practice which has been performed since time immemorial. Its roots trace down to the Indian subcontinent and to date, it is practiced widely, with its known foundations in India and Nepal.

Ayurveda incorporates the use of skilled techniques which are coupled with certain alterations in a person’s personal habits as well. It culminates in a holistic journey of healing the body, inside-out.

One such technique incorporated in Ayurveda is the practice of ‘Shirodhara Treatment’.

And if you have never experienced it, then I am going to tell you without any further delay: Shirodhara can be quite a spiritual experience.

And the best part is: You can experience the spiritual aspect of it, without much effort from your side.

All you have to do is SURRENDER. You must be willing to surrender to this amazing Shirodhara experience.

Once you surrender, Shirodhara can unfold the spiritual realm for you which many may never experience in their lifetime.

At least, it will give you a peek into the spiritual realm, if not immerse you totally in it.

What is Shirodhara Massage?

It is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy that has been practiced in India for the last 5000 years. It is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Shiro’ meaning ‘head’ and ‘Dhara’ meaning ‘pouring in a stream’ or ‘sprinkling’. It is used to ease the nerves and release tension, having an immense impact on the nervous system giving a sense of calm and relaxation to the mind.

It has been known to substantially help people with an imbalance of ‘Vata dosha’ and ‘Pitta dosha’- the different bodily senses of humor or doshas as defined in Ayurveda. These doshas are believed to be responsible for a person’s emotional, mental, and physiological health. The imbalance of these doshas can cause a person to suffer from fear, anxiety, and a sense of insecurity.

The Shirodhara therapy pacifies Vata and Pitta doshas, not only reducing stress and soothing a person’s nervous system but also treats insomnia, lowers high blood pressure, decreases hair loss and increases mental focus and attention span.

What is done in Shirodhara Treatment?

Commonly done in the morning or evening, Shirodhara starts with an Ayurvedic body massage called ‘Abhyanga’, once a person has been placed in supine with their eyes closed and their body relaxed, this is then followed by pouring two liters of lukewarm Shirodhara oil, gently over the forehead. The trickling stream of oil over the forehead is imparted in an oscillating manner, ensuring the distribution of oil only in its defined premises and avoiding its spread to the eyes or ears.

The oils used might include- sesame oil, coconut oil, ksheerabala oil, mahanarayan oil, or even clarified butter (ghee), however, it may vary with the choice of the practitioner. The Shirodhara therapy may be coupled with a gentle head massage before and after treatment. Oil is poured over the forehead where vibrations are created due to the pressure inflicted by the oil. Due to many nerve endings present, this area is highly sensitive. Oil is saturated by the forehead and the scalp, activating the nervous system which thus helps in improving the blood circulation to the brain by vasodilation of all the channels. There is a further reduction in the levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline hormones, relieving stress and anxiety.

This procedure lasts for about 30-60 minutes, termination of which brings about a state of deep rest and rejuvenation. Shirodhara makes a person achieve a state of restoration and calm, just as is attained post-meditation.

What are the benefits of Shirodhara?

As mentioned earlier, Shirodhara benefits include improving sleep quality and managing insomnia, which has proven to be advantageous in people with hypertension and anxiety disorders. It is well known for its ability to reduce hair fall, thus improving hair care.

Shirodhara therapy is open to anyone who is looking for relaxation or wants to try out Ayurvedic medicine. It is a low-risk, simple massage therapy held under the bounds of a promised calm and stress-relief, post its completion.

Having talked about the practice of Shirodhara, it would be amiss to not have mentioned the importance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to approach the same.

Wrapping up Shirodhara Treatment

One can opt to learn the practice of Shirodhara too which is offered by various Ayurvedic schools. Guidance is key to a propelling action, and it is nurtured under the shade of experienced beings. While there is plenty of fish in the sea, one must vouch for something which suits them best.

One such promising option which stands tall in rendering its Ayurvedic services is present at ‘Aithein Healing School’ in Agonda, Goa. We offer a variety of Ayurvedic courses, and candidates are provided with a certificate on completion of their respective courses.

Along with offering various courses, Aithein provides workshops and retreats in Ayurveda, Massage, and Bodywork where you can learn about the various ayurvedic treatments.

The most popular course among all is the: 4-week professional course in Ayurvedic massage where candidates learn about the practice of Shirodhara treatment along with other ayurvedic therapies.

For further information, see the upcoming course schedule