AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS
Shirodhara
A continuous stream of warm medicated oil poured over the forehead to calm the nervous system, ease stress and support deep sleep. At Arogya Retreatt, Bahadurgarh.
01WHAT IT IS
शिरोधारा · Shiras, the head, and dhara, a continuous stream
Shirodhara is one of the most recognised therapies in Ayurveda. Warm, medicated oil is poured in a slow, unbroken stream onto the forehead, moving gently from side to side, for a sustained period. The steady rhythm has a deeply settling effect on the mind and senses, which is why Shirodhara is traditionally associated with stress, anxiety, poor sleep and fatigue of the nervous system.
The oil is selected for your constitution and concern. Sesame-based medicated oils are common for Vata imbalance, while cooling preparations are chosen when there is excess heat, irritability or a Pitta-type disturbance. Shirodhara can be given as a single session or as a course over several days within a Panchkarma program.
02HOW IT IS DONE AT AROGYA
- 01
A short consultation confirms the oil, the duration and any precautions.
- 02
You lie comfortably on the treatment table with the head slightly tilted and the eyes covered.
- 03
Warm oil is poured in a continuous stream over the forehead from a suspended vessel, oscillating gently across the brow.
- 04
The therapist maintains the flow and temperature for the full session while you rest in silence.
- 05
The oil is removed, the scalp is gently wiped, and you rest for a few minutes before rising.
03BENEFITS
- Calms an overactive mind and eases stress and restlessness
- Supports deeper, more regular sleep
- Traditionally used for tension-type headache and heaviness in the head
- Nourishes the scalp and hair
- Settles the nervous system so that other therapies work more easily
Often suited to
- Persistent stress, anxiety or mental fatigue
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Tension headaches and eye strain from screen work
- Guests on a Panchkarma or de-stress program
Please tell us first
- Not given during fever, acute illness or a heavy cold
- Avoided in late pregnancy unless the practitioner advises otherwise
- Tell us about scalp conditions, recent head injury or any neurological diagnosis
- Avoid a heavy meal in the hour before the session
04WHAT TO EXPECT
Sessions last about 45 minutes. Most guests feel unusually calm and slightly drowsy afterwards, so we recommend resting rather than driving or working straight away. The scalp stays oiled for a few hours; a mild herbal wash the next morning is usual. Shirodhara is charged separately from the daily program rate.
This page is educational and describes the therapy as traditionally practised. It is not medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified practitioner. Suitability, preparation and duration are confirmed individually at Arogya Retreatt. Content reviewed September 2026.
05QUESTIONS
Common questions about Shirodhara.
How many Shirodhara sessions are needed?
A single session is restful, but a course of three to seven consecutive days is usual when Shirodhara is used for sleep or stress. Your practitioner will advise after the first session.
Which oil is used?
Medicated sesame-based oils are common, but the liquid is chosen for your constitution and concern. Takradhara uses medicated buttermilk instead of oil for cooling effect.
Will I need to wash my hair afterwards?
The oil is wiped after the session but a light residue remains. A gentle wash the next morning is recommended, so plan your day accordingly.
Is Shirodhara included in the Panchkarma Stay rate?
No. Shirodhara is listed as an additional therapy and is charged separately. Please ask during consultation.