Benefits of Shirodhara

Shirodhara is an interesting form of therapy tied to the Ayurveda system of treatments. There are various benefits of Shirodhara therapy that are unique to this form of treatment and I will be looking at these in this article.

Shirodhara impacts the nervous system, meaning it is very effective at calming nerves. So if you suffer from stress, anxiety or any other nervous conditions this might be the treatment that makes a real difference for you.

Read on to find out what the benefits of Shirodhara are, who can gain the most from this form of therapy, how it works, and everything you need to know.

Shirodhara Meaning and Definition

To summarize Shirodhara in a short and easy to understand snippet:

Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda therapy. liquids are gently poured over the patients’ forehead and it often a step in the Panchakarma process. Translated, Shirodhara broken down literally means, shiro, ‘head’, dhara, ‘flow’.

What is Shirodhara?

Shirodhara is a form of therapy that involves warm liquid, usually oil, being poured onto the patients forehead in a continual stream. This is because the nerves in the forehead are very sensitive and the vibration from the treatment stimulates nerve activity.

The warmth of the liquid is soothing and relaxing as it touches the forehead. Patients feel a deep sense of relaxation, almost to a meditative state. It’s an effective form of treatment that’s safe.

Benefits of Shirodhara on Health Conditions

Shirodhara works by impacting the nervous system as discussed above. This means patients’ can experience reduced symptoms of stress, anxiety, mental exhaustion, depression, fatigue, and more.

It can have a huge impact on a persons mood and mental-state. Some of the specific conditions that can be treated include:

Depression

Depression is a condition that affects people in a lot of different ways. Being able to relax mentally and let all your worries drift away is a huge step in the right direction to start encouraging a more positive outlook. It’s not a complete treatment in some cases, it depends on the severity of the depression.

Hypertension

Hypertension is high blood pressure. Blood pressure can be regulated through a healthy lifestyle and by promoting relaxation. Shirodhara gives the patient a deep sense of relaxation not easily achieved though other methods.

Insomnia

Insomnia and sleeping disorders has a huge negative impact on a persons life and well-being. Shirodhara helps a person relax and clear their mind of thoughts and chatter that can make it difficult to sleep and relax.

Fatigue

Fatigue, both mentally and physically can lead to other health issues. Your immune system will be weakened and you become more susceptible to illness. Being able to rejuvenate your body and mind will strengthen your immune system.

Contraindications of Shirodhara

There are some contraindications to be aware of:

• Women in their third trimester of pregnancy
• Sunburn, rashes, open wounds and skin conditions on their heads
• Recent or existing neck or head injuries
• Fevers, chills, vomiting, nausea and other similar illnesses
• Allergies to oils

Using Shirodhara and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Shirodhara treatment can only do so much, as with all forms of massage therapy. Especially those that work on balancing the body natural healing process. These types of therapies should be used as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, both in your mind and your body.

Here are a few things to consider to enhance the effects of Shirodhara and promote a better you.

Meditate

If you don’t already meditate, you should make time in your day to put a few minutes aside a meditate. Meditating is one of the most powerful ways to rejuvenate the mind and body. In combination with healing techniques like Shirodhara it’s even more powerful.

Eat Healthy

A lot of us can take a good look at our diet and see a lot of ways we can improve. I’m not saying you have to cut out all those treats, just a few. Start getting good quality vitamins and nutrition through fresh foods daily. You will be surprised how much better you feel.

Get Enough Sleep

One of the areas of our lives we compromise on is rest and sleep. It’s tempting to try and squeeze out a few more hours a day to get things done. But cutting back on sleep takes its toll and damages your health. Set a sleeping schedule, develop good sleeping habits, and stick to it.