“Shiro” means head and “Dhara” means dripping.
Shirodhara is aancient method of Ayurvedic healing in which oil or any medicated liquid is allowed to fall on the forehead in a steady stream or flow for specified duration.
Shirodhara 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.
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 ‘AjnaMarma’ or the ‘Maha-Marma’, which brings stability in the mind and consciousness. According to Ayurveda, the AjnaMarma 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.
The center of the forehead, also known as the third eye, is connected usually to the pineal gland.Focusing on the third eye with closed eyes during meditation leads to psychosomatic harmony. Shirodhara therapy induces a relaxed state in the mind as well as the body and similarly, when the oil drips on the forehead, the meditation-like effect is a consequence of stillness of the mind leading to an adaptive response to the basal stress. These effects are arbitrated by the brain wave coherence, alpha waves, and downregulation of the sympathetic outflow.
Shirodhara can help soothe the hypothalamus, which activates the regulation of the pituitary gland. It also works in reducing elevated serotonin levels and stress hormones such as noradrenaline and adrenaline, to effectively manage stress.
Due to the constant flow of liquids over the head, Shirodhara tranquilizes and stabilizes the mind, so the mind becomes serene and calm. It is a form of restorative therapy for stress, anxiety, depression, and all other psychosomatic diseases.
BENEFITS
- Shirodhara helps in controlling excessive levels of mental stress.
- Reduces Anxiety.
- Beneficial in sleep-related problems. Improves Sleep Quality.
- The soothing effect of the medicine used helps manage aggravated Doshas and alleviates stress-induced headaches and migraines.
- Improves concentration.
- Enhance blood circulation– Warm oils used in this practice encourages improved circulation of the blood.
- Hair fall and scalp related problems.
