Shirodhara has been practised for over 5000 years and it derives from two Sanskrit words: shiro and dhara. Shiro means head and dhara means to flow. It basically involves the gentle, constant application of warm oil at the chakra point/ third eye (forehead) just above and between the eyebrows. The oils flow over the scalp and through your hair, creating a blissful sensation.
It is an amazing, and relaxing body therapy from the ancient natural medical system Ayurveda, which is renowned for soothing and healing an agitated nervous system. Shirodhara is known to relieve symptoms of anxiety, stress, fatigue and hypertension.
What to expect
When coming in to experience your first ever Shirodhara massage, you will lie on your back and your body will be cocooned in a warm towel, with your head positioned under the oil ‘fountain’. This is essentially a metal bottle with a slow-flowing spout from which the warm oils will stream gently onto the forehead. It will help regulate your mood and leave with feeling relaxed and balanced.
How to prepare before your Shirodhara massage appointment
Since there is oil involved, it is best to come dressed in something comfortable, and more importantly, something you don’t mind getting a bit of oil on (perhaps an old t-shirt). Your hair will also be saturated in oil and it’s best to keep it in your hair for at least a couple of hours following the treatment, overnight would be even better!
You should also eat lightly before your appointment, as Shirodhara has an effect on the digestive system and a coming in with a full stomach is not advised.
Post-Shirodhara Massage
Make time to rest after your appointment. Shirodhara cleanses the mind and sense, so avoid any unnecessary noise after your treatment. This could include large crowds in restaurants/ bars, and concerts etc. Make the following few days as peaceful as you can to mentally rest.
After your oil treatment, leaving the oil in your hair is preferred. You can cover your head using an old hat or scarf (again, something you don’t mind getting oil on). If you’re just around the house, using a plastic shower cap also works well.
You should also try to miss coffee for a couple of days. Caffeine creates disharmony in your body and it’s best to be avoided. If you need some extra energy, try having a juice or a piece of fruit.
Benefits
Shirodhara is a deeply nurturing psycho-spiritual experience that attunes the body/mind towards spontaneous healing. It is renowned for its ability to release serotonin and encourage a balance of mind body & spirit. It is based on the principle that gentle but constant application of warm oil stimulates healthy blood circulation to the brain. Shirodhara is very beneficial for:
- rejuvenation after deep cleansing
- headaches/migraines
- insomnia
- anxiety
- better decision making power
- better clarity and focus
- to quickly recover from jetlag
- to deeply rest and nourish the nervous system
- Depression
- Visual difficulties
- Psychosis and scattered thoughts
- Anger management
Contact Us
Ayurclinic Melbourne offers holistic, gentle treatments that help our patients heal naturally. If you would like to try a shirodhara massage or want to know more about ayurveda, please contact us today for more.
