Shirodhara Therapy for Sleep, Anxiety, Menopause, & More
Shirodhara is a form of Āyurvedic body therapy that involves gently pouring a soothing liquid over the forehead and third eye. Shirodhara has a deeply relaxing and calming effect on the body and mind.
What is Shirodhara?
‘Shiro‘ means head and ‘dhara‘ means flow or thread. During shirodhara, a warm liquid, often an herbal oil, is poured over the forehead in a continuous stream while you lay with your eyes closed, covered and protected with a cloth, for 40 minutes. Herbal decoctions, takra (Ayurvedic buttermilk) or warm milk may also be used. It is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy, perhaps 4,000-5,000 years old.
Shirodhara Research
Shirodhara research shows that the treatment can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, manage menopausal syndrome, and improve sleep quality.
It reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressures. It also improves reaction time in ADHD-affected children.
What Clients Say
Two words… deep sleep.
I was a little nervous at first but the simplicity of the shirodhara and the soft music put me in a slight trance. I found myself calm and relaxed during and after the shirodhara. The biggest surprise was clarity. My mind was clear and focused and then later those evenings I went into an amazingly fully rested sleep.
Shirodhara FAQ’s
Read the following Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
How does shirodhara work?
Warm oil (or other liquid) is poured in a continuous stream over the forehead or ‘anja marma’, commonly called the ‘third eye chakra’. This area may be related to the pituitary gland. The pressure of the oil on your forehead creates a vibration. The warmth of the liquid opens the subtle pores and channels in the head. The liquid saturates the hair and scalp, deeply relaxing the muscles of the head, creating a calming and soothing experience similar to deep meditation.
What does shirodhara help with?
Shirodhara may be helpful for anxiety, insomnia, stress, fatigue, relaxation, and irritability. Shirodhara may provide support to infertility (to provide deep relaxation and regulate hormone production), menopause (to calm the mind and soothe irritability), hypertension, headache, fear, depression, PTSD, shift work sleep disorder (SWSD), jet lag, jaw clenching, and more.
What are the contraindications?
Individuals desiring Ayurvedic bodywork must become a client in order to determine if and when Ayurvedic therapies would support them. Schedule a Free 30-Min Consultation to learn more.
Shirodhara should not be given to women in their third trimester or pregnancy. In dharas of the entire body (yes, that’s possible!), shirodhara is contraindicated in pregnant women. Other contraindications: brain tumor, recent neck injury, abrasions or cuts on the head or scalp, fever or chills, acute illness, edema, exhaustion, dehydration, non-cooperative individuals like children, nausea, vomiting, severe weakness, exhaustion, dizziness, fainting, spontaneous sweating, rash or sunburn on the forehead or scalp. If you have an aversion to oil shirodhara is contraindicated.
How do I prepare for my shirodhara appointment? Does it affect color-treated hair?
Before your appointment, eat lightly. Shirodhara is not advised on a full stomach.
Keep in mind, you may need additional rest following your shirodhara. Make use of this time to avoid unnecessary stimulation after your treatment. Keep screen use to a minimum when you go home and avoid large gatherings like concerts, restaurants, bars. Instead, make the remainder of your day peaceful.
Shirodhara has no negative effect on color-treated hair.
Experience Shirodhara
If you have questions about shirodhara or Ayurveda, call 423-218-2349 for assistance.
See how Āyurveda can help you.