Get relief from insomnia and stress with Shirodhara

Stress, insomnia and anxiety all become by-products of our fast-paced life. Here, the significance of simple and ancient therapies comes to the rescue. Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Director and Principal Consultant of Ayush Ayurveda, Singapore, says: Shirodhara means head and flow. It is the combination of two Sanskrit words, “shiro” (head) and “dhara” (flow). This Ayurvedic healing practice is done using a liquid, liquids like oil, milk, buttermilk, or water — poured onto the forehead. It’s done with a body or head massage.

Benefits 

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says that Shirodhara has relaxing and calming effects on the body and mind. He adds that research has proven that Shirodhara helps to manage insomnia, reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, adds that Shirodhara is exceptionally helpful for people suffering from an imbalance of Vata and Pitta. “People suffer from fear, insecurity and worry or anxiety whenever there is a Vata imbalance. Similarly, an imbalance of Pitta can make a person angry, frustrated, and irritated. We use liquids that help to mitigate the negative effects of dosha imbalances for performing Shirodhara. When poured to the forehead in a steady stream, the carefully chosen liquids are expected to soothe and pacify the doshas.”

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, adds that Shirodhara can even give relief from migraine, helps reduce high blood pressure, decrease hair loss, eases stress and increase focus and concentration.

The treatment

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says that Shirodhara offers the best results in the morning or evening. “Shirodhara starts with an Ayurvedic body massage, otherwise known as abhyangam. Later, as part of the procedure, about 2 litres of lukewarm oil is poured over the forehead continuously like a stream. The process takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and depending on the patient and his problems, an Ayush Ayurvedic Therapist gives a light head massage.”

Talking about the science behind Shiroadhara, Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says that our forehead has many nerve endings and is very sensitive. The pressure of the oil creates vibrations on the forehead and penetrates the forehead, scalp and nervous system. It improves blood circulation to the brain and reduces stress hormones. Shirodhara helps the body, mind and nervous system feel deep rest, similar to meditation.

Dos and don’ts

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says that, like any treatment, Shirodhara, too, should be done under expert supervision after consulting an experienced Ayurvedic doctor. “People suffering from an anxiety disorder, stress, high BP, fatigue, tension, and headache can opt for Shirodhara Ayurvedic treatment. It’s also useful in post-traumatic stress disorder. Shirodhara stimulates the pineal gland that produces the sleep-inducing hormone; hence, it is recommended for treating insomnia.”

Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore, says that it is best to avoid Shirodhara for women in the final phase of pregnancy. Also, those with a neck injury wound or cut in the forehead, having nausea or vomiting and suffering from fever should not undergo the procedure.”

Like in all Ayurvedic treatments, people who have undergone Shirodhara should benefit better if they avoid caffeine and avoid spicy and oily food. A light diet and warm water will help to receive better outcomes of Shirodhara, concludes Dr. V.C. Ajith Kumar, Ayurveda Doctor, Ayush Singapore.