What
Is Shirodhara? Shirodhara is an ancient Ayurvedic
healing practice performed in India for over 2,000
years. It is the application of warmed sesame, coconut
(sometimes medicated) oil gently poured onto the forehead
for an extended period. Special oils can also be gently
placed into the nose (nasya) with a dropper. Shirodhara
is performed with the client lying face up on a massage
table in a relaxing environment.
Shirodhara is traditionally used to calm the nerves, harmonize vata constitutions, restore the nerves, release stored emotions, and purify the mind. In Ayurvedic medicine, shirodhara is considered an important tool in the pursuit of higher states of consciousness. Shirodhara has been traditionally shown to help with fatigue, mental exhaustion, anxiety, insomnia, some mental disorders, headache, excessive thinking, nervousness, and many other conditions commonly affecting Americans in today’s active vata deranging lifestyle.
What Are the Effects of Shirodhara? Most people will commonly notice many of the following after shirodhara: reduction in stress, reduction in excessive thinking, calming of the emotions, release of negative emotions, improved sleep, improvement in insomnia, vivid dreaming, muscle relaxation, improvement in mood, centeredness, reduction in anxiety, alleviation of mental anguish, and a temporary blissful state. Many people experience profound levels of insight and emotional healing after shirodhara. In essence, it calms the body, mind, and spirit.
Do I Need to Prepare in Any Special Way? Although
it is not necessary, it is recommended all clients
eat very lightly or fast on the day shirodhara is
to be done. Kitcharee, combined basmati rice and mung
dhal (a variety of split yellow lentils available
from any Indian grocery) is ideal. Kitcharee is an
easily digestible complete protein food. For those
who are experienced with fasting or are looking to
actively involve deep tissue cleansing, it is recommended
to fast for 1-3 days before the shirodhara session
on kitcharee alone.
What Do I Need to Bring?
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Wear an older sweatshirt or t-shirt, as they may get some oil on them. |
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2 large towels – one to wrap the head in afterwards and one to place under the neck. |
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1 small hand towel – to gently warm and place over the eyes. |
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14-16 ounce bottle to take your used oil home for self massage (a glass juice jar is ideal). |
What Should I Do After Shirodhara? It is highly recommend to rest and relax after shirodhara, as the mind will be very calm. Try to arrange the next day off work after shirodhara to fully experience the deep and lasting effects on the mind. Many people comment on experiencing new levels of yoga, prayer, or meditation after the session. It is common to remain in a near blissful state of peace and harmony for up to five days after shirodhara.
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