Anxiety, Stress Insomnia? Time to Shirodhara

I never leave India without having a shirodhara. In this unique treatment, found in no other system of health, warm oil is poured continuously across the forehead for 30–60 minutes. This treatment is used therapeutically for patients with insomnia, high stress and anxiety, and to induce deep relaxation. This profound treatment is considered to have a deep and positive effect on the physiological body.

The pineal gland (corresponding to the crown chakra) and the pituitary gland (corresponding to the third-eye chakra) are the twin centres of the endocrine system. The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland resting deep at the base of the brain that regulates metabolism, tissue growth and development, blood pressure and pain-relieving endorphins. The pineal gland is seated deep in the brain and secretes two vital hormones to balance our emotional and mental health.

Serotonin, the ‘happy hormone’ is produced in the gut and secreted via the pineal gland, as melatonin, the hormone that is responsible for regulating our natural sleep. Hence, the deep relaxation induced by the pouring of warm oil, subtly massaging these glands over the forehead, is considered to be the natural antidote to anxiety and insomnia and can help rebalance the endocrine and nervous systems.

After this treatment, my clients always feel a complete sense of zen; they have reported improved sleep and a feeling of deep relaxation that they have never experienced before. In fact, many of my clients actually fall asleep during the treatment itself.

Get in touch if you feel a shirodhara sounds like the treatment that you need over the autumn season.