Ayurveda is a way of life here in India. It has been around for at least five thousand years and till today, it continues to be practised by people around the globe. Ayurveda not only focuses on improving one’s health but beauty and mind as well. Take massages, for instance, they encourage the body’s natural ability to heal itself. The same rules apply to head massages. Relieving your neck and shoulder from stiffness, Ayurvedic head massages also improve blood circulation, relieves stress and eliminates toxins. So what makes Ayurvedic head massages different from a normal head massage? The method, technique and choice of oil, of course!
You’ve probably heard for Shirodhara. If you haven’t, here’s what it means – Shiro (head) and Dhara (flow) when the two words are paired together, they’re called ‘Shirodhara‘ aka third eye therapy or Indian head massage. The massage involves pouring warm oil on the forehead following it up with a gentle massage.
How To Give Yourself The Best Ayurvedic Head Massage At Home
Shutterstock
Before we teach you how to give yourself the Ayurvedic head massage, you must know which oil to use. Keeping your dosha in mind, you can find the best head massage oil for your hair type.
If you have dry, thin hair with dandruff, your dosha is Vata: Sesame or coconut oil.
If you have oily hair, moderately thick with a hair fall problem, your dosha is Pitta: Brahmi, amla, coconut oil.
If you have thick, curly hair with dandruff, your dosha is Kapha: Triphala oil and almond oil.
Shutterstock
Step 1: Place a yoga mat on the floor and a towel on top of it.
Step 2: Put on some soothing meditation music and lie down on the mat.
Step 3: Place the Shirodhara pot (use an oil funnel or lota if you don’t have one at home) above your head.
Step 4: Wear an eye mask to cover your eyes or place a clean cotton cloth on your eyes.
Step 5: You or a family member at home can pour the warm oil on the centre of your forehead where the third eye is situated.
Step 6: Gently massage your scalp in circular motions for 5-8 minutes.
Step 7: Rest for 10-15 minutes after oiling your scalp and hair.
If you’ve been feeling stressed lately and not been able to get proper sleep, Shirodhara can take care of that for you.
Images: Shutterstock
