Shirodhara Therapy at Revine Naturopathy
Shirodhara, derived from the Sanskrit words “Shiro” meaning head and “Dhara” meaning flow, is a unique Ayurvedic treatment that involves the gentle and continuous pouring of warm herbal oil, milk or water on the forehead. This therapy is deeply relaxing, calming both the mind and body and is known for its therapeutic effects, particularly in reducing stress, anxiety and sleep disorders.
At Revine Naturopathy, Shirodhara therapy is performed with precision and care, providing a transformative healing experience for all our patients. The treatment is designed to balance the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and restore mental peace, promoting overall well-being.
How Shirodhara Therapy Works at Revine
Here’s how the process is carried out at Revine Naturopathy:
Preparing the Oil: Based on the patient’s condition and dosha imbalance, approximately 2 liters of lukewarm medicated oil or herbal decoctions are selected. The temperature is carefully controlled, ensuring it remains between 40-45 degrees Celsius to provide optimal therapeutic benefits.
Pouring the Oil: The warm oil is gently poured over the forehead in a steady, oscillating stream, targeting the area where the nerve endings are most sensitive, particularly the center of the forehead, also known as the “third eye.”
Massage During Treatment: While the oil flows over the forehead, a gentle head massage is given to stimulate the scalp and improve relaxation. This head massage enhances the absorption of the oil and creates a calming effect, making the therapy even more effective.
Therapy Duration: Depending on the patient’s condition, the therapy lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. The continuous flow of oil induces deep relaxation, releasing stress hormones and helping the body enter a tranquil state.
Post-Therapy Rest: After the therapy is completed, the patient is advised to rest for a short period to allow the body to fully absorb the benefits of the treatment. The oil is gently wiped off, and the patient may feel a sense of calm and relaxation.
At Revine Naturopathy, we recommend Shirodhara to patients dealing with high levels of stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, or fatigue. By targeting the “third eye,” the therapy produces a meditation-like effect, soothing the nervous system and helping the body reset and heal naturally.
Types of Shirodhara Therapy
Shirodhara comes in several forms, each designed to target specific imbalances in the body:
Tailadhara: This involves the use of medicated oils mixed with herbal extracts. Tailadhara is especially beneficial for balancing Vata dosha, which is associated with air and movement in the body.
Takradhara: In this form, buttermilk infused with special herbs is poured over the forehead. It is highly effective for balancing Pitta dosha, which relates to fire and heat in the body, helping to cool and soothe inflammation.
Ksheer Dhara: This method uses milk infused with herbs and is useful for treating stress, anxiety, and headaches. It balances both Vata and Pitta doshas, nourishing and relaxing the body.
Kwathdhara: In Kwathdhara, herbal decoctions are used. This type helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas and is useful for treating various chronic conditions.
Jala Dhara: Here, water or coconut water is used to treat conditions caused by excess heat in the body, helping to cool and balance the body’s internal temperature.
Benefits of Shirodhara Therapy
Shirodhara offers numerous health benefits, some of which include:
Reduces Fatigue: Shirodhara helps reduce mental and physical exhaustion. It rejuvenates the mind, eliminating toxins and refreshing the nervous system.
Improves Sleep Disorders: By soothing the hypothalamus and regulating the pituitary gland, Shirodhara helps in managing insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Boosts Blood Circulation: The warm oils used in Shirodhara cause vasodilation, which improves blood circulation to the brain, enhancing cognitive functions and reducing tension headaches.
Relieves Stress and Anxiety: Shirodhara calms the mind by regulating stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, thus helping to manage anxiety, depression, and mental fatigue.
Enhances Concentration: By nourishing the scalp and improving blood flow, Shirodhara sharpens focus, mental clarity, and concentration, making it easier to handle day-to-day activities.
Treats Headaches: In Ayurveda, stress-related headaches are caused by an imbalance of the doshas. Shirodhara helps calm aggravated doshas, relieving migraines and other types of headaches.
Alleviates Jet Lag: Shirodhara is a wonderful therapy for frequent travelers who suffer from jet lag. The treatment helps reset the body’s sleep-wake cycle and reduces fatigue after long flights.
At Revine Naturopathy, Shirodhara therapy is a highly recommended treatment for those looking to relieve stress, anxiety or sleep-related problems. Our experienced therapists carefully administer this therapy, ensuring the proper balance of herbal oils and the patient’s dosha for the best possible results. If you are seeking a therapy that soothes both the mind and body, Shirodhara could be the perfect solution for you.