Shirodhara Massage
The philosophy behind Ayurveda is that all disease is caused by an imbalance of energy in the body.
Ayurveda is the knowledge that indicates the appropriate and inappropriate, happy and sorrowful conditions of living, what is auspicious or inauspicious for longevity as well as the measure of life itself. (Charaka Samhita)
Shirodhara Massage

Practiced for over thousands of years, shirodhara massage originates from India and is based on the ancient principles of Ayurvedic medicine. The term Shirodhara derives from two Sanskrit words, shiro and dhara; Shiro means “ head ” and dhara means “ flow”.
Shirodhara massage, the reviving treatment involves warm and consistent flow of herbal oils over the forehead, specifically on the ‘ third eye’. This is the chakra point just above and between the eyebrows; it’s said to be the seat of human consciousness . As the oils flow over the scalp and through the hair, it creates a blissful sensation.
Lying on your back, your body will be wrapped in warmed towels and your head will be positioned under the oil ‘ fountain’ – a metal bottle with a slow- flowing spout from which the Ayurvedic oils will stream gently onto the forehead.
The philosophy behind Ayurveda is that all disease is caused by an imbalance of energy in the body. To treat illnesses, Ayurveda exercises purification therapy to cleanse the body and restore the balance of life energy by revitalization. Shirodhara treatment is one such regeneration therapy that’s renowned for soothing and healing an agitated nervous system.
Severe illnesses may require multiple treatments to obtain optimum results while minor conditions like insomnia may only take one session for you to sleep soundly at night. Your Ayurvedic doctor at AYURCLINIC will determine how many treatments and how often your treatments will be needed to obtain lasting results. With successive Shirodhara treatments, patients are able to make lifestyle changes easily due to decreased stress.
All your mental demons – fear, anger or irritability – dissolve into an ocean of calm as your mind is lulled into a state of serenity and expanded consciousness.
Shirodhara Procedure
- The Shirodhara treatment usually follows Abhyanga. The person lies down on the Shirodhara table with their eyes closed and covered.
- A stream of warm herbal decoction/oil is poured onto the person’s forehead. Rhythmic flow is created on the forehead by the constant stream of oil. The oil penetrates deep down into the nervous system after saturating the forehead and scalp. The oils used in this procedure improve blood circulation to the brain by the vasodilation of all the channels.
- The warm pressure and flow of oil help you to completely rejuvenate and relax. To maintain the rhythmic and continuous flow of oil over your entire forehead, the practitioner rotates the Dhara pot.
- Once Dhara is complete, patients can relax for a short period of rest, followed by a hot water bath and the hair can be washed out.
- The treatment and duration of Shirodhara may last from 30 to 60 minutes which can vary according to the condition of each individual. This procedure is mostly performed for a duration of 7 – 14 days.
It is important to ensure that dhara oil does not enter your eyes or ears; it is recommended to be performed under the guidance of an experienced therapist .
Oils used in Shirodhara Massage
Some commonly used Ayurvedic oils in Shirodhara are –
- Ksheera Bala Tailam
- Chandani Tailam
- Dhanwantharam Tailam
- Narayana Tailam
- Triphaladi Tailam
Types of Shirodhara
- Tailadhara –Dhara using herbal oils made of herbal extracts and essential oils, that is beneficial for balancing vata dosha.
- Takradhara – Dhara using buttermilk infused with special herbs, beneficial for balancing pitta dosha.
- Ksheer Dhara – Dhara using medicated milk, beneficial for headaches, stress, and anxiety, and helps nourish and relax the body.
- Kwathdhara – Dhara using decoctions made with various herbs, beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha dosha
- Jala Dhara– Dhara using coconut water or normal water, mainly useful in conditions caused by excessive heat in the body.
Benefits of Shirodhara Massage
Shirodhara massage, a deeply nourishing therapy, offers spiritual experience that brings mind and body to spontaneous healing. It is well known for its capability to release serotonin and leading to harmonious mind, body and spirit. This rejuvenating therapy is based on the principle that gentle and constant application of warm Ayurvedic oil helps for healthy blood circulation to the brain. Shirodhara massage is highly beneficial for:
- Deep relaxation and stress reduction
- Rejuvenation after deep cleansing
- Headaches/migraines
- Insomnia
- Better decision making power
- Better clarity and focus
- To quickly recover from jetlag
- To deeply rest and nourish the nervous system
- Visual difficulties
- Psychosis and scattered thoughts
- Anger management
So take some time to go deep & feel totally supported at all levels of your well being.
Why Choose AyurClinic for Shirodhara?
At AyurClinic, we pride ourselves on our commitment to giving high-quality Ayurvedic treatments and medications. Our professional therapists have prominent experience and knowledge in shirodhara, and we use finest organic Ayurvedic oils and herbs for the treatment. Here’s why we stand out:
- Personalized Treatment plan for your unique needs and health goals
- Expertise and Care from our skilled therapists
- Relaxful and calming environment for you
Book Your Shirodhara Session Today!
Experience the transformative effects of Shirodhara massage at AyurClinic in Melbourne. Our holistic approach will ensure you receive the best possible care made to your unique needs and requirements.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
