A Shriodhara treatment addresses the emotions of stress and anxiety by offering a gentle stimulation to the nervous system to assist in reestablishing the mind-body connection. When the brain perceives the oil flowing onto the third eye, (Third Eye Chakra), chemicals begin to release that induces a mental state similar to sleep, which creates profound relaxation of the mind and body. It is deeply relaxing and revitalizes the central nervous system, similar to the effects of meditation, enhancing cellular immunity and intelligence.
About Shirodhara
Shirodhara is a classical and a well-established Ayurvedic procedure of slowly and steadily dripping medicated warm oil. The client lies on the massage table as a controlled flow of warm medicated oil is poured slowly onto the forehead (the third eye) as this area has a large number of nerve endings and therefore is highly sensitive. Vibrations are created on the forehead by the pressure of the oil. The oil penetrates into the nervous system after saturating the forehead and scalp. The oils used improve blood circulation to the brain by vasodilating all the channels, followed by a gentle foot & face massage. In Ayurveda, this type of therapy is considered the golden path to longevity and is designed for preserving health.
Benefits of Shirodhara Therapy:
Eliminates diseases of head and disorders affecting neck, eyes, ears, nose and nervous system, deep relaxation of the nervous system
Increased blood circulation around the body and to the brain
Helps overcome stress and its ill effects on nervous system
Helps relieve insomnia, fatigue, tension, anxiety, anger, chronic headaches, rheumatism, hypertension
Gives great mental relaxation, invigorates the body and mind and stimulates cognitive memories
Disperses negative electrical impulses that accumulate at the skull and hairline from stress
Nourishes hair and scalp
Renews the sweetness of life
Rejuvenates the entire face and softens worry lines
Opens the third eye
Heightens the senses
Increases intuition
Activates the pituitary gland
Increases spiritual awareness
Regulates mood and depression disorders
Activates the memory and stimulates the 6th and 7th chakra which regulates our breathing patterns
Pre-treatment guidelines:
Do not eat at least 1 hour before appointment
Avoid caffeinated drinks before appointment
Bring a hat or head covering to wear home. A disposable shower cap is provided to protect the fabric of your head covering.
Oil Used For Treatment:
Sesame Brahmi/Ashwagandha Oil
Post-treatment guidelines:
Keep oil on for as long as possible. When washing oil out of the hair is better to add shampoo to hair first and then use water to wash the hair.
Caffeine should be avoided for a few days after the treatment as caffeine has a negative effect on the nervous system as well as a sattvic diet, avoid eating heavy and oily food.
Be sure not only to rest the body after treatment, but also rest the mind.
Use warm water for bathing and drinking purposes.
Results of Treatment:
Shirodhara provides relief from nervous disorders and may also help to reduce blood pressure, induce sleep and reduce hair loss. However, this is an Ayurvedic treatment that produces immediate results. But a person can get affected by anxiety or stress or sleep disorders after a certain time after completing the treatment. The results are, hence, not permanent and a person may have to opt for the treatment again. Permanent results may be obtained by undergoing this treatment over a long period of time.
Are there any side effects?
Shirodhara is a very beneficial treatment and there are no serious side-effects associated with the treatment. However, some people may experience a feeling of heaviness in the head. Some people can get a bit dizzy while the chances of giddiness may increase for people if they had kept their eyes open during the treatment.