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SHIRODHARA
(Third Eye Balancing)
Is
the technique of administering a stream of warm oil onto the
Third Eye area of the forehead. Shirdohara is most effective
when it is administered after a massage or a Tarpana ceremony
when the patient is relaxed and calm. Shirdohara stimulates
the nervous system by releasing neuro-hormones and creating
ecstatic feelings of relaxation and pleasure. The patient should
be advised to plan only light activity for several hours following
the treatment.
Position
the patient on the back with their neck supported
by a rolled up towel. The head should be tilted
back and extended off the table. Cover the patient
with a sheet or blanket and place a bolster under
the knees. Position a large bowl on the floor under
the patient's head to catch the oil as it runs off
the forhead. Traditionally sesame oil is used, but
it is also effective to use oil and essential oils
appropriate to the doshic imbalance. The ela borate
equipment used in India can be approximated in the
United States by purchasing a separation funnell
and stand from a chemistry supply store.
 The
shirodhara treatment usually takes thirty (30) minutes.
A five to ten minute quite satisfying treatment,
however, can be administered by using a one-cup
plastic bottle with a squirt top.
Begin
by applying a small stream of oil in the center
of the forehead. While it is pleasurable to move
the stream over the entire forehead and top of the
head, the focus of the treatment hsould be on the
Third Eye, a position one inch above and between
the eyebrows. Protect the eyes from any accidental
splattering. When the treatment is over, remove
excess oil from the forehead and head with a small
towel. The patient should remain in a state of relaxation
for at least the next five to thirty (5-30) minutes.
This treatment (shirodhara) is also spelled shirodara.
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