Shirodhara
Aside from the beautiful saris and gold jewelry that characterise much of the Indian subcontinent’s culture, one of the most internationally known body adornments worn in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism is the bindi, a crimson dot placed on the forehead between the eyebrows. Besides being just an adornment, the bindi has a spiritual and healing aspect- activating the Ajna Chakra or the third eye and enhancing spiritual awareness.
Around 3000 BC, the rishi-munis (ancient seers of Hinduism) wrote the Vedas, describing areas of concentrated energy called the chakras. Seven main chakras run along the center of the body, and the sixth one (called the ajna chakra, the “brow chakra” or “third eye chakra”) is located in between the eyebrows. Hindu tradition holds that all people have a third inner eye. The two physical eyes are used for seeing the external world, while the third focuses inward toward God, so the bindi is an indispensable part of Indian culture. But what about Ayurveda?
Benefits this treatment brings
Shirodhara is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy that involves a gentle, steady stream of warm oil or other herbal liquids poured onto the forehead or "third eye" area. The word "Shirodhara" is derived from two Sanskrit words- "Shiro," which means "head," and "Dhara," which means "flow."
The continuous flow of warm oil on the forehead aims to create a deep sense of relaxation and calmness and to activate the third eye, promoting mental clarity and spiritual awareness. In some conditions, instead of oil, a medicated herbal decoction or buttermilk (takradhara) is indicated. Shirodhara has numerous benefits for both the body and mind. Here are some of the Shirodhara treatment benefits:
Relieves Headaches
The gentle pressure of the oil stream can help alleviate headaches, migraines, and other head pain.
Improves Sleep
Shirodhara can help enhance the quality of sleep and particularly benefit insomnia sufferers.
Balances Hormones
Shirodhara can help balance hormones and regulate the endocrine system.
Reduces Stress & Anxiety
Shirodhara can calm the mind and relax the body, lessening stress and anxiety levels.
Anti-ageing Effects
It can help reduce the signs of ageing by promoting cellular regeneration and reducing oxidative stress.
Enhances Mental Clarity
Shirodhara can help clear the mind, enhance mental clarity, and improve concentration and focus.
Supports Nervous System
It can help and support the nervous system, improving overall health and well-being.
Promotes Hair Growth
Shirodhara treatment can nourish and strengthen the hair and scalp, leading to healthier hair growth.
Shirodhara treatment at Ayurvedagram Bali
At Ayurvedagram, Bali, the Shirodhara therapy strictly adheres to the ancient and authentic procedures outlined in Ayurveda's texts.
Our highly skilled doctors are trained in the Kerala tradition of Ayurveda and take great care in selecting the most appropriate oil, decoction, or medicated buttermilk based on the individual's health condition. Our belief at Ayurvedagram is that Shirodhara serves as an excellent therapeutic tool, not only for relaxation but also to calm the mind and body. The entire process of Shirodhara typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes and follows these steps:
Consultation:
Before the therapy, an expert Ayurveda physician will discuss your medical history, current health condition, and any specific concerns you may have. This helps the practitioner choose the most appropriate oil or medication for your needs.
Preparation:
Massage
Oil stream
Relaxation:
Clean up:
Our Shirodhara Treatment:
Ayurvedagram Bali is a haven of peace and tranquility that provides a range of indulgent therapies, including the highly regarded Ayurvedic shirodhara, as part of its all-encompassing wellness programs. We present each guest with a tailored shirodhara treatment plan customized to meet their needs. The perfect blend of ancient Ayurvedic techniques and serene natural settings makes for an abundant, profoundly calming, and revitalizing shirodhara treatment at Ayurvedagram Bali, leaving guests completely rejuvenated. The calming effects of shirodhara are felt almost immediately, with guests experiencing a sense of calm and well-being that lasts long after the treatment.
Along with shirodhara, guests can participate in yoga and meditation classes designed to enhance their Ayurvedic experience. Yoga and meditation practices complement the shirodhara treatment by increasing mindfulness, promoting relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety, and helping balance the body's energies.
The natural surroundings of Ayurvedagram Bali further enhance the Ayurvedic experience, with lush gardens, tranquil water features, and stunning views providing a peaceful and serene setting for guests to unwind and reconnect with themselves. Overall, a shirodhara treatment at Ayurvedagram Bali offers guests the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with their inner selves in a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.
Our Team
Dr. Natasha
Dr Natasha leads our team of Ayurvedic Practitioners. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and has been awarded for her outstanding academic excellence. Dr.Natasha is a skilled practitioner, with over a decade of experience in healing as a Physician and Panchakarma specialist and in Herbal Dietetics. She belongs to Kerala, South India, which is the home to the 3000-year-old Ayurvedic traditions.
Chef led cooking classes
Our Ayurvedic cooking are led by Chefs trained in Ayurvedic traditions. Our classes provide the essence of Ayurveda and facilitate valuable knowledge of Ayurvedic diet principles along with deep insight of conscious healthy eating. The classes will teach you to prepare meals in accordance to your unique dosha (constitution). You learn to understand the properties of different spices and their usage in preparation of healthy Ayurvedic diet
Experienced yoga teacher
Our Yoga and Meditation protocols are led by Certified Yoga Masters, trained to guide you through dynamic yoga stretches, extensive breathwork practices and meditative techniques. Experienced Yoga teachers, trained to access and understand your personal health need and condition, will gently ease you into a group session or a personalised yoga and meditation package designed to meet your health goal.
Requirements
Essential prerequisites include the thoughtful selection of appropriate herbs for crafting the decoction or oil, maintenance of a soothing temperature, the presence of a highly proficient therapist, and the creation of a tranquil treatment environment. The selection of a medicated decoction or oil is of paramount importance, personalized to harmonize with the individual's unique constitution and imbalances, to foster peak wellness and profound relaxation.