Shirodhara – An Ayurvedic Procedure to Relaxes Nervous System
- January 21, 2017
- Posted by Vaidya Jagjit Singh
- 0 Comment(s)
Shirodhara is derived from two sankskrit words shiro means head and dhara means to flow. It involves the warm and consistent flow of aromatic oils on the forehead, specifically on the third eye. This is the chakra point just above and between the eyebrows and is said to be the seat of the human consciousness. The oil flows over the scalp and through the hair, creating a blissful sensation. Different types of liquids can be used in shirodhara depending upon what is being treated. There are specialized forms of shirodhara such as ksheerdhara, Takradhara, taildhara and jaladhara. It can include oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water or even plain water.
Shirodhara has a profound impact on the nervous system. This treatment immediately relaxes, calms and has a relaxing effect on the mind and nerves.
PROCEDURE
The patient is made to lie down on the wooden table with his head resting on the elevation at the head end. A small pillow is placed for support under the neck of the patient. Cotton pads are placed on the eyes of the patient to avoid the medicated oil’s entry into the eyes. One attendant is made to stand near the head end and the other attendant is seated at the collecting vessel. The dhara stand should be placed vertically near the head end. The dhara vessel should be suspended from the hook with the help of a chain or thick rope such that the cotton wick is at a height of atleast four angula above the midpoint of the centre of the patient’s forehead. The dhara vessel should be filled with the medicated oil and should be made to flow over the forehead. The oil should be warm and filled repeatedly when there is less oil in the vessel. Make sure that the flow of the oil should not be discontinued. There should be continous flow of the oil.
BENEFITS AND INDICATIONS
Shirodhara helps in relieving anxiety, stress, fatigue and hypertension. It helps in relieving tension, worry, fear, headache as well as depression. It regulates mood and gives feeling of pleasure and relaxation. It improves memory and concentration.
Shirodhara is indicated in the following conditions:-
- Fear, Anger, Insecurity
- Worry, Irritability, Frustration, Judgement
- Chronic Headache
- Vertigo
- Sleeplessness
- Tension
Vaidya Jagjit Singh is a 3rd generation Ayurved physician from his family and is the remarkable person responsible for setting up of the Chandigarh Ayurved and Panchkarma Centre in sector 32 and 22, Chandigarh and Zirakpur and he is also the first founder member of Guru Ravidas Ayurved University. He has done his B.A.M.S. from Shri Dhanwantri Ayurvedic College, Chandigarh. He is an admirable ayurvedic physician with specialization in Chronic ailments.