In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety are seen to go hand in hand, on the one hand, people are increasingly trying to move towards ancient influence and ancient medicine. Ancient medicine promises not only cure from disease but also the welfare of the entire world. One of such ancient treatments is Ayurveda therapy and Shirodhara therapy also comes under this Ayurveda therapy. Ayurveda is an ancient medicine of India as well as a very advanced medicine. In Shirodhara, a continuous stream of hot medicinal fluid is slowly released onto the person’s forehead. These medicinal substances create an experience of peace in both the human body and mind.
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Origin of Shirodhara
Shirodhara can be found at many
places in the ancient texts of Ayurveda. It is described in texts like Charak
Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. At many
places it has been considered an important aspect of treatment like Panchakarma
Kayakalp Vishva Haran. Shirodhara is a
Sanskrit word, it is formed from two words Shiro and Dhara, “Shiro” means head
and “Dhara” means flow. Is. Shirodhara has its origins in ancient and
traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda
considers the mind and body to be interconnected and tries its best to maintain
balance between the two.
The science behind the effectiveness of Shirodhara
The effectiveness of Shirodhara lies
in its ability to harmonize the three doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha –
according to Ayurvedic principles. The
continuous flow of hot liquid on the forehead stimulates the third eye or Ajna
Chakra, an important energy center in the body.
This gentle stimulation helps to balance the nervous system, promoting a
feeling of deep relaxation and peace.
According to the basic principle of
Ayurveda, Shirodhara helps in establishing harmony among the three doshas –
Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Types of Shirodhara:
The type of Shirodhara depends on the liquid used in it. Different types of Shirodhara are used for different therapies. The types of Shirodhara are given below, they are as follows:-
1.
Ksheer Dhara:
Kshir Dhara is a continuous flow of
the medicinal liquid mixed with milk in Shirodhara at nutritious temperature on
the patient’s brain (third eye). This
Shirodhara proves to be very useful in providing rejuvenation to the patient.
2.
Chakra Dhara:
Buttermilk is used along with
medicinal plants in Chakradhar. Takra
Dhara is used to cool the patient and provide diffusion therapy. Takra Dhara is a boon in problems related to
swelling or imbalance of Pitta Dosha of the patient.
3.
Oil Stream:
Normally oil stream is mostly used
in Shirodhara. In this, proven oils are
used in medicinal liquids according to the patient’s disease. It is used to increase mental peace and
relaxation to the patient. This provides
relief from stress and proves to be very effective in enhancing skin health.
4.
Kwath Dhara:
In Kwath Dhara, decoction and
mixture of Ayurvedic medicinal plants are used in Shirodhara. Its use is beneficial in the treatment of
visa abduction and at the same time it is beneficial in strengthening the
patient.
5.
Water stream:
Jal Dhara, a lukewarm spring, is
used in a gentle therapy of Shirodhara.
It is used in people with medical sensitivities or health concerns.
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Medical benefits of Shirodhara:
There are many benefits of
Shirodhara therapy, some of which are presented below.
1.
Stress Reduction:
One of the major benefits of
Shirodhara is stress reduction. This
reduces stress as well as anxiety and the patient gets a lot of benefit from
it.
2.
Better Sleep:
Shirodhara is a boon for patients
suffering from insomnia. Due to removal
of mental stress, Shirodhara helps a lot in getting better sleep.
3.
Increased blood circulation
The type of Shirodhara in which hot
substances are used helps a lot in blood circulation and this therapy is very
beneficial for heart health.
4.
Relief from Headache:
Shirodhara therapy is extremely
useful for people suffering from chronic headaches. Which is a remedy for migraine and frequent
headaches.
5.
Increase concentration
Shirodhara increases meditation and
concentration and it is like nectar for concentration. Shirodhara helps in completely concentrating
the restless or wandering mind.
Why Shirodhara in the modern world?
Shirodhara becomes an oasis in a
very dynamic world. A holistic elixir is
similar therapy addressing the physical, mental and emotional dimensions of
health. This is a very successful
therapy in balancing all three doshas and relieving physical and mental
stress. This therapy is extremely
effective in relieving stress occurring in the modern era.
Undertaking Shirodhara:
Shirodhara takes place in 30 to 60
minute continuous sessions, tailored to the individual’s physical structure and
health aspirations. An experienced
Ayurvedic practitioner conducts Shirodhara as per the Vyadhi of the marriage,
evaluating the dosha imbalance to determine the particular Shirodhara.
Conclusion:
Even in the modern age, Shirodhara
stands as a testament to the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, resonating in the
contemporary world. Shirodhara is one of
the many types of treatments beneficial for the patient’s health. Shirodhara therapy is like elixir in treating
mental stress and anxiety. Amidst the
complexities of modern life, adopting ancient practices like Shirodhara helps
one feel inner peace and gets relief from mental stress. Shirodhara is also a beneficial therapy for
balance, peace and deep unity of mind, body and spirit.
