Shirodhara - The Ayurvedic forehead oil pouring

Today I will receive my first forehead oil pouring.

The forehead oil pouring, also known as Shirodhara, is a key component of Ayurvedic therapy. Those who have experienced this wonderful treatment know how beneficial and relaxing it can be. For me, it will be my first time, and I am somewhat skeptical about what will happen when my third eye is opened. 🤔

Shiro means 'head' in Sanskrit. You may have come across this term in yoga as Shirshasana, the headstand. Dhara translates to 'flow' or 'stream'. Together, it describes a continuous flow onto the head.

Lying down, my eyes and ears will be covered. Then, Somee will start pouring the warm oil onto my forehead, first from one side and then the other. This process takes about 20 minutes. And finally, only for a short time - at least during the first Shirodhara - right in the center, between the eyebrows.

The area between the eyebrows is known to us as the location of the third eye, the seat of our intuition, or as the site of the sixth chakra (Forehead Chakra). Ayurveda refers to specific energy centers as Marma points. Each Marma point is attributed with specific qualities, and the connection of all Marma points in the body forms a subtle energy network that runs through the entire body. The Ajna Marma is located between the eyebrows and is associated with intuition, soul, and consciousness, similar to the Forehead Chakra. The gentle stimulation of this special energetic area in the face by the oil stimulates this important energy center.

At the end of the treatment, I will be wrapped in a turban. But before I leave the room, Somee will come and tuck a hibiscus flower 🌸 behind my ear. How sweet. ☺️

Yes, it is the many little attentions that make my stay so special.

When I realized this, however, I did not yet know that in the afternoon I would receive a wonderful bouquet of flowers 💐 from Rasika, a staff member.

So today, I can officially call myself a flower girl. 😄