Shirodhara is a an extremely relaxing Ayurvedic treatment where the recipient lies on their back and a continuous stream of warm oil is poured over the forehead so that it flows over the third eye chakra area.  Although the oil is applied externally, in the Ayurvedic classification of treatments, shirodhara is considered an internal cleansing treatment used to “ripen” deep seated toxins.  Transdermal medicinal delivery in the form of external oleation has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.  In order to understand the science behind transdermal medicine, we must view the skin as the largest organ of digestion in the human body. Application of medicated oils to the skin; specifically the head, as in shirodhara can bring profound healing benefits.

The field of action of shirodhara is vast. The oil first reaches the superficial level, then penetrates through the subcutaneous tissue to reach the nerve endings, the pathway of majja dhatu.  Majja dhatu is the space filling tissue composed of the nervous system and spinal cord whose main function is to provide communication between all the bodily tissues and systems.  Learning, memory, creativity, and sensation are all functions of majja dhatu.  Shirodhara brings relaxation to and restores balance in the majja dhatu.  The front brain is also the seat tarpaka kapha and sadhaka pitta, the functional and memory storing mechanisms of the brain.  Excess mental activity and stress can cause stagnation, or even excessive flow in these areas. Shirodhara dissolves stagnation and restores a balance in the clarity of perception and memory.

Shirodhara treatments are often referred to as “bliss therapies” in spa settings.  While one should approach any Ayurvedic treatments offered in a spa setting without the care and expertise of an Ayurvedic practitioner with caution, let us examine this trend in the mode of knowledge.  Shirodhara promotes ojas in the brain.  Ojas is a sanskrit word that can be translated as “vigor,” and is also known as the vital fluid of life. Ojas is the juice of one’s life energy which, when sufficient, provides immunity and vitality and when deficient, results in weakness, fatigue and ultimately disease and death. Shirodhara also stimulates healthy production and stimulation of serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitters in the brain. The combination of the regulation of these neurotransmitters along with the promotion of ojas leads to a feeling of deep relaxation and bliss.

Because the oil or fluid of a shirodhara is applied to the third eye area, which is associated with the pineal gland, this treatment can restore balance to the entire endocrine system and offer relief of many hormonal imbalances.

A shirodhara treatment lasts about 15-30 minutes.  The oil or liquid used in a shirodhara treatment depends on any concerns or imbalances of the recipient.  It is important to consult with a practitioner of Ayurveda before receiving a shirodhara treatment.  At Half Moon Ayurveda, we offer traditional shirodhara treatments in a relaxed and healing environment.  Contact us to schedule yours today.