Shirodhara massage; an ancient Ayurvedic technique

Shirodhara massage; how does the oil pouring technique work?

The Shirodhara massage, also called “head oiling”, is the quintessence of the ancient Indian Ayurveda medicine.

Its name derives from the Sanskrit words Shiro, which means “head”, and Dhara, which means “continuous flow of liquid”. The name describes well this technique, based on a flow of oil at room temperature gently poured on the forehead for 20 minutes up to about an hour. It usually follows an Ayurvedic massage that relaxes the body and prepares it for the beneficial effects of the oil flow.

The Shirodhara massage requires to lie down in supine position on a wooden table called Taila Tron (oil throne ). A towel covers the body while the head rests on a pillow, in a slightly elevated position.

At this point, the operator starts swinging the Dhara-Patra, a container from which a trickle of warm oil drips slowly and steadily. The oil flows on the forehead, lightly pushing between the eyebrows, where the Ajana Chakra is. That’s the chakra of meditation, also called the third eye.

The traditional practice of Shirodhara massage involves two operators. One controls the Dhara-patra, the other massages the patient. And actually, it is a four-hand massage. However, in Western countries it is often performed by a single expert operator who can easily manage all the different phases.

Furthermore, the operator gives a massage also before the Shirodhara treatment. It is the Siroabyangam massage. It starts from the top of the head, continues towards the temples, down to the forehead, between the skull and the neck, insisting on the contracted areas, and up to the trapezius and arms.

The Shirodhara ritual uses different oils from oriental plants, such as the Brahmi oil, the Ksheerabala, the Chandanadi, the Durdurapatyadi, the Neelibringadi and the Mahanarayana. They are prepared following the precepts of Ayruveda, always stored in cool places away from light and heated in a bain-marie.

Shirodhara massage: the benefits of Ayurvedic treatment at Forte Village Resort

The Shirodhara massage has a deeply relaxing effect. It restores the balance of the Doshas (vital energies) and brings numerous benefits to the body and spirit:

• fights headaches, migraines and dizziness;
• helps in treating eye, nose, throat, ear and neck disorders;
• strengthens the shoulders and eases muscle contracture;
• stimulates the pituitary gland which regulates endocrine and metabolic activity;
• contrasts aging and makes the skin more luminous;
• nourishes the hair and scalp;
• relieves insomnia and fatigue;
• helps to keep anxiety and stress under control;
• relaxes the nervous system and improves concentration, memory and self-esteem.

To fully benefit the potential of the Shirodhara, people should enjoy it in a peaceful and relaxing environment such as the Aquaforte Thalasso & Spa at Forte Village, an award-winning resort surrounded by the splendid Sardinian sea.

Forte Village Resort is the ideal destination for a holiday of mind, body and soul wellness, thanks to the many beauty and medical programs available. In addition to the Shirodhara massage, we offer thalassotherapy, sea oil cryotherapy, the walk in high-density saline water, the anti-aging treatment, shiatsu massage and much more.

In addition, guests can practice meditation or the ancient yogic discipline in the splendid Ayurvedic Park. They can choose which branch meets their needs between Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga.

Forte Village is located in one of the most beautiful corners on the south coast of the island, plunged in 50 hectares of enchanting gardens. The resort boasts a unique offer throughout the Mediterranean area and the variety of facilities can satisfy different needs. Guests can choose between 8 elegant five and four star hotels, the refined Waterfront Suites and 13 luxury villas. These latter are wonderful oases of privacy and beauty with extra services, such as butler, chef or chauffeur.

Our accessible luxury resort also offers high quality and variety of food. The most popular starred chefs, both national and international, create for us excellent menus. In addition, we have a cellar with 600 selected labels from prestigious international and Italian wine areas.

Forte Village is also a child-friendly resort. Little kids can have fun in safety with the many interactive and sport activities in the Children’s Wonderland area. Boys and girls can take part in the Sports Academies and train together with great international champions. They can improve their technique, both in individual and team sports, and live a truly unforgettable experience.

Do you want to feel the benefits of Shirodhara massage and live a dream vacation in a true paradise? Discover the Forte Village Resort in Sardinia.