Shirodhara
Shirodhara involves gentle pouring of liquids over the forehead. The name comes from the Sanskrit words “shiro” (head) and “dhara” (flow). It is a continuous stream of liquid on the forehead, usually warm sesame oil. It is a simple but profound technique, which relaxes the body, clears the mind and gives the spirit the ability to be in touch with the self.
Shirodhara has been used to treat a variety of conditions such as:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Sinusitis
- Memory loss
- Neurological disorders
- Vertigo
- Psychological stress
I say that the calming effect produced by shirodhara is similar to that obtained with meditation. The combination of Abhyanga and Shirodhara is considered the royal Ayurvedic treatment.