SHIRODHARA: AN AYURVEDIC THERAPY FOR STRESS
Shirodhara is an old form in Ayurvedic healing that helps people find peace in their body. mind and spirit to promote holistic health It is among the most important therapies described in Ayurveda that not only purify and revitalize the body, but also alleviate anxiety, mental fatigue, and can treat various disorders.
The term “Shirodhara” is taken by two Sanskrit words “Shiro. Which means head, and ‘Dhara’ which means stream, flow, or pour. Together, it is a way to drip or pour herbal oils that are lukewarm on the forehead continuously. In the course of treatment the oil is poured at a particular height for a certain amount of duration to allow it to flow across the scalp and into the hair. It is able to stimulate a crucial area on the scalp called the ‘Ajna Marma’ , or the ‘Maha Marma’. It creates a stable mind and in the awareness. According to Ayurveda it is believed that it is believed that the Ajna Marma is the key area through which the vital life force, or “Prana” circulates. The Ajna Marma is also known to be the heart of the psyche and is known as the ‘Third-Eye Chakra’ well.
Additionally Shirodhara helps balance the body’s doshas and helps improve the functioning of our nervous system. It also helps in providing a truly satisfying and heavenly experience.
Different kinds of Shirodhara Massage
Shirodhara is known by various names according to the classic Ayurvedic. Writings from Charak Samhita and Susruta Samhita including Sirothara Shiro Sheka, Shiro Parisheka Shirashek, etc. In general, they are classified into the four following categories.
Kashayadhara: This Shirodhara therapy is carried out using medicinal herbal decoction Also known as Kashayadhara. The kind of oil and the herbs used for this therapy is chosen according to the health status of the person and the motivation for seeking out the therapy.
Thailadhara The oil used to treat ailments is employed in treatment.
Ksheerdhara: This Shirodhara therapy makes use of milk that has been infusion with herbs, such as sandalwood, vetiver root or camphor. During the treatment the milk is stored at ambient temperature.
Takradhara: The Takradhara is an adaptation of Shirodhara which makes use of buttermilk infusion with herbs to treat.
Procedure
Here’s a step-by-step description of the Shirodhara treatment.
- Prior to the procedure the scalp and head will be massaged thoroughly with ample oil for five to 10 minutes.
- You’ll be asked to lay on your rear on the massage table, in the in supine position.
- A small towel or pillow can be placed on your neck to provide support.
- It is the Shirodhara pot or the equipment will be placed on top of you so that the oil of the pot will fall right on your forehead.
- The pot is then filled with the herb oil that you would like to use and slowly pour on your forehead. The therapist will ensure that the oil flows out from the Shirodhara pot continuously.
- Now , the pot is agitated to transfer it from one part of the forehead to the opposite side.
- The excess oil that fallen into the forehead area can be recovered, reheated until the desired temperature, then returned to the pot to carry on the procedure.
- The process can take approximately 20-30 minutes.
- In the course of the treatment it is also provided with a light head massage.
- Following the Shirodhara massage The oil will then be taken off of your scalp. Following this, you’ll be able to relax for between 30 and 60 minutes. This allows the oil to soak in your hair.
Certain points to be aware of when performing the Shirodhara treatment are:
Contraindications to Virechana
- To get the most benefit Shirodhara must be done in the morning, or at night.
- For certain health issues the combination of Shirodhara with massages for the entire body or Abhyanga with herbal oils that are medicated.
- When the procedure is finished after which it is suggested to bathe in warm water. To wash away oil from your hair’s surface, shampoos with medicated ingredients can be applied.
- Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages for a few weeks following the treatment since it can reduce the effectiveness that the procedure offers. Make sure you adhere to an a diet that is Vata-pacifying.
Shirodhara Oil Ingredients
The liquid or oil that will be used in Shirodhara Ayurvedic treatment. chosen depending on the individual circumstances and imbalance of dosha. In general, herbal oils with coconut water, buttermilk and decoctions containing milk and liquorice are used as the components of the liquid. A single session could require 3-4 liters of the massaging liquid. They are used to help treat a range of health problems like the loss of memory. allergic rhinitis vertigo. Hearing loss as well as insomnia tinnitus sinusitis eye disorders Meniere. s disease a variety of neurological conditions. and also specific skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Read Also : Ayurvedic lifestyle & herbs for a healthy future
The most popular Shirodhara oil Ksheer Bala tailam. It is an oil mixture made of sesame Bala herb paste and cow’s milk. Other kinds of oil are Chandanadi Tailam Narayana tailam Karpasasthyadi tailam, and Dhanwantharam tailam. In out of those oils sesame oils are a great option to perform Shirodhara massageand it is perfectly well. Sesame oil is high in antioxidants and active ingredients such as sesaminol, sesaminol and sesaminol, which aid in controlling the serotonin activity within the brain. Additionally, Shirodhara helps the body by reducing anxiety, improving tranquility and aiding in achieving a restful sleep. To treat people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorders, Shirodhara therapy may be done using oils that are mixed with herbal nervines.
What are the advantages from Shirodhara Treatment?
Relieves Stress
Events that stress you can cause your body to undergo emotions or changes in the body. That could make people feel anxious frustrated and angry. Shirodhara treatment is a great way to drastically reduce stress on the body and mind.
When warm herbal oil is applied to the forehead, along with a gentle massage of the head. The body is put into an euphoric state, which helps to conserve energy, dilates blood vessels, and reduces your heartbeat. This is why Shirodhara therapy is vital for treating arrhythmia and hypertension.
Since the majority of diseases present today are directly. Indirectly related to stress-related lifestyles, reducing the effects of stress is vital to ensure long-term health. Shirodhara can help you relax and feel calm and reduces stress. A single session of Shirodhara can help you combat anxiety for days or hours.
Awakening Intuition
The eyebrow point is known as the “Third Eye in many Ayurvedic texts. It is the source of insight and foresight and the source of awakening spiritually. Shirodhara helps the mind since it stimulates this area and opens the third eye, which leads to the liberation of one’s prana or life force. Shirodhara removes any blockages that may be in the brain’s energy channels and helps one see events that are buried in their past in a way that wasn’t previously accessible. Additionally, the infusion of Shirodhara oil helps to attain a profound clarity of mind to face their emotional traumas, past traumas and unresolved griefs.
Enhances the Quality of Sleep
Sleep problems and insomnia are a frequent issue for those who live the hectic lifestyles that a lot people live. A lack or inconsistency of sleep can be incredibly exhausting, leading to fatigue, and a decrease in mental and decision-making functions. It can also adversely impacting well-being of the body and mind. Shirodhara treatment is believed to decrease cortisol levels within the body, thereby reducing the signs of stress as well as improving the quality and length of sleep.
Combats Anxiety
Shirodhara treatment is proven stress reliever. By relaxing the head with massages and herbs Shirodhara helps eliminate harmful toxins from the brain and improves the cognitive function in the brain. It regulates the levels serotonin hormones within the body, contributing to wellbeing and happiness for the person. It also helps reduce some of the signs and symptoms associated with anxiety like restlessness, anxiety or cold feet and hands and more.
Pacifies Vata Doshas
Acute Vata Dosha within the body can cause uncontrollable and unorganized thoughts, forgetfulness inattention and restlessness. Shirodhara is a great treatment and cure to calm the excessive Vata Dosha. The balancing qualities of the essential oils in Shirodhara neutralize the cool, light , and changing nature of Vata dosha thereby alleviating the symptoms of Vata imbalance.
Conclusion
Shirodhara Ayurvedic Treatment Shirodhara Ayurvedic treatment. Is the most frequently requested treatment by our guests in Govardhan EcoVillage, and there are many good reasons why. It provides a wonderful feeling of relaxation and produces calm effects on the mind. It makes use of a variety of Ayurvedic oils that soothe and nourish the brain but also treat a range of health problems, such as stress headache, migraine, hypertension and many more.
At Govardhan EcoVillage We believe in living in harmony with nature and embracing Ayurvedic. Methods should become an integral part of our life. Don’t delay until we have an illness or health issue. Shirodhara treatment has numerous advantages and is extremely beneficial for both the mind as well as the body.
If you’d like to experience the healing benefits of this ancient therapy wonder, please contact us. Let this classic Ayurvedic treatment revive you and establish a connection to your spiritual self.