Shiro abhyanga – ayurveda head massage
Ayurvedic head massage Shiro abhyanga – what does it mean?
Together let’s unlock the secrets of head massage „Shiro Abhyanga” by understanding and exploring its cultural significance, therapeutic benefits, and its relevance against modern-day health challenges. The Sanskrit word „Shiro Abhyanga” is derived from the combination of two words: „Shiro” meaning „head,” and „abhyanga,” which translates to „oil massage.” As we all know the ‘head’ is an extremely important part of our body. Our sages have proclaimed in the ancient Ayurvedic scriptures, that just as tree roots play a vital role in nourishing and maintaining the health of the entire tree, similarly, by treating the head, we can ensure overall health and effectively treat the entire body. Throughout the ages, people in South Asian countries, have traditionally continued this practice, of using homemade natural oils, for head oleation procedures.
The effect of Shiro abhyanga massage on the scalp and hair
Even today, its positive effects are evident in their long, thick, and robust, dark hair. Culturally, such beautiful hair is also considered a must-have feature, for an ideal women’s beauty look. Even applying a few drops of oil onto the head, is commonly used, instead of pills and other medications, offering immediate relief against common headaches. Despite the scientific mechanism of how these oils travel through the skull and miraculously promote healing still remains a mystery.
The use of Shiro abhyanga head massage in the Panchakarma detoxification programs
Ayurveda attributes it to special points on our body, called „Marma”. These points have the power to function as conductors to deeper levels of the body, stimulating tissues, nerves, and cells. Head massage „Shiro Abhyanga” is considered a true medical treatment, and is used in all Panchakarma detoxification programs by Ayurveda physicians. To this day, traditional Ayurvedic doctors utilize „Shiro abhyanga” together with various special natural medicinal oils, to treat eye diseases, ear diseases, and many other ailments starting from the neckline and above. To prepare these special oils, natural ingredients, are collected directly from forests dried, and mixed with other base oils such as Sesame oil, Coconut oil, or Mustard oil. Certain oil formulas also require animal-source ingredients, such as: cow milk or goat milk. Later these mixtures based on ancient traditional recipes are cooked meticulously over weeks or even months according to specific methods and sometimes following an auspicious time.
The challenges of the modern life and Ayurvedic massage
As the world struggles with the challenges of modern life, prolonged screen time on computers and phones, coupled with excessive use of social media, has led to an overstimulation of our brain cells and main sensory organs. Leading to stress, depression, insomnia, eye ailments, thyroid problems, and at a deeper level, even potential links, leading to certain types of cancer. Massage of the head „Shiro Abhyanga” emerges as an optimal solution for these modern times, offering a holistic approach to mental and physical well-being.
THE MOST IMPORTANT BENEFITS OF SHIRO ABHYANGA MASSAGE:
1. Excellent against sleeping disorders and insomnia.
2. Helps fight neurological disorders such as Dementia, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s, autism, spinal conditions, Multiple sclerosis, headaches and migraines.
3. Helps maintain and improve concentration, mental clarity, and stability.
4. Excellent against premature graying of hair and hair loss.
5. Reduces scalp dryness and dandruff.
6. As the mind has a direct influence on the body, treating the head „Shiro abhyanga” consequentially, promotes the well-being of the entire nervous system.
Ayurveda highly recommends „Shiro abhyanga” massage for all of the above-mentioned health issues. It is also recommended to incorporate Shiro Abhyanga, into your everyday routine, as a home health care prevention method. We recommend using good quality natural traditional Ayurveda oil formulas such as Thriphala oil, Brahmi oil, Brungamalaka oil, Neelabrungadee oil and Neelyadee oil. If these options are not available and difficult to find, you can also go for a good quality natural sesame oil, coconut oil or olive oil.
How to perform the Shiro abhyanga ritual at home?
The home „Shiro abhyanga” procedure is quite simple. Take a small amount of oil, gently warm it and apply it to all the heads. After that, massage with the tips of your fingers the whole head for about 20/30 minutes. For better absorption and results, try keeping the oil for a minimum of 3 hours. Later you can gently wash your head with warm water. While „Shiro abhyanga” or head massage is easily recommended without any contraindication, only during certain health conditions such as; runny nose, sinuses, flu, recent head concussions, head injuries and strokes, caution is advised. In these situations, you may want to consult your physician or doctor to ensure health and safety.
In conclusion, Shiro abhyanga isn’t just a simple head massage; it’s a therapeutic treatment with numerous benefits for both the mind and body. So, whether you are having professional massages or simply practicing self-massage techniques at home, incorporating this into your routine can work wonders. Your body and mind will thank you for it, allowing you to embrace each day with a clearer mind, a lighter spirit, and a healthier outlook on life.
Give the gift of health and a new point of view to your loved ones, purchase a gift vouchers for them as a nice surprise or as a gift for a selected occasion.
The text was prepared by Dr. Dhananji
