Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda therapy which involves pouring of certain liquid on the forehead, the third eye. Shirodhara is also part of Panchakarma, a very unique aspect of Ayurveda for its cleansing and rejuvenating actions.

The liquids used in Shirodhara depend on what condition is treated at the time of the therapy. It can include buttermilk, coconut water, milk or warm oil.

Before Shirodhara is performed, the rogi gets an Abhyanga treatment, which means, a warm oil application all over the body depending on the constitution. For Vata, this warming oil is recommended. for Pitta this calming and cooling oil  and for Kapha,, this invigorating and revitalizing oil (click in link to buy)
The power of touch originates from the skin through which our life force flows. Through the complex network of nerves, it is the most important link between the outer environment and our inner body. Oils penetrate the skin and the entire nervous system, nourishing the body within and improving health, bringing glow, radiance and beauty to the skins surface, helping anti-aging and rejuvenation.

The benefits of Abhyanga:

• Benefits skin
• Improves firmness in the limbs
• Decreases the effects of aging
• Strengthens the body’s circulation
• Improves sleep patterns
• Increases longevity
• Nourishes the body with the benefits of the warm herbal infused oil

After Abhyanga, the practitioner pours the warm oil (or any other liquid depending on the rogi’s condition) into a copper Shirodhara pot. To protect the eyes from the oil, they get cover with cotton soaked in rose water.
The oil will drip through the opening of the copper pot onto the third eye, slowly in a steady stream for at least 30 minutes.

What are some of the benefits of Shirodhara?

• it brings harmony and balance to body, mind and spirit
• generates relaxation, relieving stress
• rejuvenates the body
• helps to heighten the senses
• improves good sleep, treats insomnia
• increases intuition
• improves concentration and mental clarity
• opens up the flow of energy in the body
• increases positive outlook on life
• can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, tension and worry

Abhyanga can also be incorporated into the daily morning routine. Apply warm oil all over the body, let it penetrate the skin for a few minutes and shower. In order for the oil to penetrate all layers of the skin, wait at least 7 minutes minimum before washing.

Abhyanga/Shirodhara can be done as a therapy by itself as a wonderful way of rejuvenating the body mind and spirit or as part of Panchakarma, which helps cleanse the body of environmental pollutants and toxic load of life style choices which if left in the tissues and bloodstream, can result in poor health.