What most people know about ayurveda treatments comes from that enticing photograph of a stream of oil being poured onto the forehead – onto the ‘third eye’. Called a shirodhara this is such a powerful therapy that it should not be undertaken, or even prescribed lightly – and most serious practitioners will not recommend it for anyone staying in a resort or centre for less than three days.
In the hands of the ill-trained or uninitiated it can truly disrupt the nervous system (why do you think the Japanese adopted a similar routine as water torture!). So if it is suggested to you be very careful. But one thing is for sure, if you are staying at an ayurvedic centre for the recommended seven days, then by all means experience it. I know that if I had one a day for five days I would come home with a totally refreshed brain.
Sometimes if the doctor will not allow you to experience a full shirodhara, he might allow you a thakradhara, which is its younger, weaker relative. The treatment uses buttermilk…and while the smell can be really off-putting, it lasts just moments, for the rest of the time you will be in a deep, deep sleep…it too. is a great relaxant.
