Shirodhara

In Shirodhara a warm liquid is poured in a steady, unbroken stream across the forehead, over the point between the brows. The rhythm is slow and unvarying, and it is this steadiness rather than any pressure that gives the therapy its character. Most people describe the experience as deeply settling.

Choosing the liquid

The pouring medium is selected for your constitution and current state. Thaila Dhara uses medicated oil and is the most grounding option. Takra Dhara uses medicated buttermilk and is cooling. Ksheera Dhara uses medicated milk and is the gentlest and most nourishing. Kashaya Dhara uses a herbal decoction and is the lightest of the four.

What a session involves

A short head and shoulder massage precedes the pouring. You lie back while the liquid flows for roughly 30 to 45 minutes, after which the scalp is gently wiped and you are left to rest. The therapy is unhurried by design and is not shortened to fit a schedule.