What is Shirodhara?
Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing therapy that effects the body, mind and spirit in a profoundly healing way. A stream of warm oil is poured over the forehead and scalp, then left at a point at the middle of the brow (the third eye) for a duration of 15 – 30 minutes.
Shirodhara is a cornerstone Ayurvedic treatment. The treatment never fails to surprise and amaze newcomers to Ayurveda. People generally say that it’s like being in the deepest state of meditation that you can imagine. Some are mystified by it – but all are impressed.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Shirodhara stimulates what’s called a marma point over the third eye (and the pituitary gland), releasing neurotransmitters and neurohormones that allow the body to relax and heal at the deepest level. A marma point, in the Ayurvedic Science, is a vital energy point on the surface of the body. The ajna marma, between the brows, is central to all brain function and governs the endocrine glands. On a more subtle level, it regulates the qualityof consciousness.
The very simple application of a steady stream of warm oil to the middle of the forehead recharges the body, brings clarity to the mind, increases focus, concentration, memory and cognitive function, and helps to normalize emotional balance. Tension around the spine is relieved, which helps to calm and clear the mind. Shirodhara facilitates the release of serotonin and can elevate alpha and theta brain wave activity. A series of treatments can have a profound effect in treating a number of neurological and psychological conditions.
WHAT DOES IT TREAT?
Numerous studies have confirmed the multiple benefits from Shirodhara. Besides relaxation and stress reduction, Shirodhara has been proven to offer relief from headaches, migraines and insomnia, improves sleep quality, reduces anxiety, stimulates better decision making, increases clarity and focus, quickens recovery from jetlag and helps to deeply pacify and nourish the nervous system. Shirodhara is an excellent treatment for routine maintenance of the mind, harmonizing brain wave activity that is disrupted by technology and modern living. Shirodhara has the added benefit of rejuvenating the whole body, relieving exhaustion, and restoring the luster of the skin.