Shirodhara is an ancient method of Ayurvedic healing that can help one find harmony within the mind, body and spirit for holistic wellbeing. It is one of the most essential therapies mentioned in Ayurveda that can not only rejuvenate and purify the body but also relieves stress, mental fatigue and treats several disorders.

The word ‘Shirodhara’ is derived from two Sanskrit words – ‘Shiro’ meaning the head and ‘Dhara’ meaning stream, pour or flow. Together, it means to pour or drip lukewarm herbal oils on the forehead in a continuous stream. During the therapy, the oil is poured from a certain height for a specific time to allow it to run through the scalp and into the hair. It stimulates a vital point on the head called the ‘Ajna Marma’ or the ‘Maha-Marma’, which brings stability in the mind and consciousness. According to Ayurveda, the Ajna Marma is the key point through which vital life force or ‘Prana’ circulates. It is also known as the centre of intuition and is called the ‘Third-Eye Chakra’ as well.

In addition, Shirodhara balances the doshas in the body and enhances the functioning of the nervous system while delivering a truly rewarding and divine experience.

Different Types of Shirodhara Massage

Shirodhara is called by different names as per the classical Ayurvedic texts of Charak Samhita and Susruta Samhita, such as Sirothara, Shiro Sheka, Shiro Parisheka, Shirashek, etc. Mainly, they can be categorised into the following four types.

Kashayadhara: This Shirodhara therapy is performed with medicated herbal decoction called Kashayadhara. The type of oil and herbs used in this therapy are selected considering the health conditions of the individual and their purpose of seeking the therapy.

Thailadhara: Here, medicated oil is used in therapy.

Ksheerdhara: This Shirodhara therapy uses milk infused with herbs like vetiver roots, sandalwood or camphor. During the therapy, the milk is maintained at room temperature.

Takradhara: The Takradhara is a form of Shirodhara that uses buttermilk infused with herbs for the therapy.

Procedure

• Before the procedure starts, your head and scalp will be thoroughly massaged with plenty of oil for about five to ten minutes.
• You will be required to lie on your back on the massage table in the supine position.
• A small pillow or towel will be placed under your neck for support.
• The Shirodhara pot or equipment will be placed over you in such a way that the herbal oil from the pot falls right over your forehead.
• The pot will then be filled with the herbal oil you want to use and slowly poured over your forehead. The therapist ensures that the oil pours out of the Shirodhara pot in continuous motion.
• Now the pot is oscillated to pour the oil from one side of the forehead to the other.
• The extra oil that has dripped down from the forehead can be recollected, reheated to the optimum temperature, and can be put back in the pot to repeat the process.
• The procedure can last for somewhere around 20 to 30 minutes.
• During the process, you will also be given a light head massage.
• After the Shirodhara massage, the oil will be wiped off from your head following which you will be relaxing for about 30 to 60 minutes. This will allow the oil to seep deep into your scalp