Vad händer i hjärnan vid Shirodhara

Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic treatment that involves pouring a continuous stream of warm oil over the forehead. This practice is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and can induce a state of deep relaxation.Here's what is thought to happen in the brain during Shirodhara:* **Stimulation of the "Third Eye" Area:** The forehead, particularly the area between the eyebrows, is considered a sensitive nerve centre in Ayurveda, often referred to as the "third eye" or *ajna chakra*. The continuous flow of oil is thought to gently stimulate this area, which can help to calm the mind and reduce mental chatter. * **Activation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System:** The gentle, rhythmic nature of the oil flow is believed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. This counteracts the effects of the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for "fight or flight"), leading to a state of relaxation, reduced heart rate, and lower blood pressure. * **Release of Neurotransmitters:** The deep relaxation achieved during Shirodhara may lead to the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects. It's thought to help balance hormones like cortisol (the stress hormone). * **Brainwave Activity Changes:** Some research suggests that Shirodhara may alter brainwave patterns, shifting from a more active, alert state (beta waves) to a more relaxed and meditative state (alpha and theta waves). This can lead to feelings of peace and clarity. * **Improved Blood Circulation:** The warmth of the oil and the massage potentially improve blood circulation to the head and brain, which can aid in nutrient delivery and waste removal, potentially contributing to better brain function and clarity. * **Reduction in Stress Hormones:** By calming the nervous system, Shirodhara is thought to help reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol, leading to a sustained sense of calm even after the treatment.In essence, Shirodhara aims to soothe and quiet the overactive mind, creating a profound sense of calm and mental stillness.

Healing through the forehead - for real.

Sometimes I am asked:

“What's that about oil running in the pan?”

I reply:

“It is healing for the nervous system. For real.”

Shirodhara is one of the most iconic and neurologically fascinating treatments in Ayurveda.

It is not a “cool oil ritual”, but a deeply therapeutic way to quiet the constant noise in the brain: overactivity, thought loops, worry and inner stress.

During the treatment, a steady, warm stream of herbal oil (often medicinal sesame oil, brahmi or ashwagandha oil) flows rhythmically over the area between the eyebrows—the Ajna chakra, which we often call the third eye.

But what is actually happening?

Neurologically & at the cellular level:

The brain goes from beta waves (active thinking) → to alpha and sometimes theta (deep relaxation, meditation, dreamlike state)
The hypothalamus regulates centres for sleep, hunger, hormones, temperature and stress.
Cortisol levels are dropping
The parasympathetic nervous system is activated (rest, recovery, digestion and self-healing)

It is like meditation times a hundred.

Stillness, clarity and deep presence arise effortlessly.

Many describe it as:

“Something inside went quiet.”

“I rested for real for the first time.”

Effects frequently experienced:

Deep relaxation

Better sleep and reduced insomnia

Reduced stress, anxiety and high blood pressure

Balancing Vata and Pitta

Mental clarity and focus

Support for exhaustion disorder, PTSD, depression and psychosomatic symptoms

Some fall asleep. Others cry. A few laugh.

Not because anything is “wrong”, but because the nervous system is finally allowed to let go.

Shirodhara is a central part of Panchakarma, Ayurveda's profound cleansing and restorative process. However, it can also be done as a stand-alone treatment to reconnect with the body, mind and inner calm.

Would you like to try a treatment that speaks directly to your nervous system?

Join me on a Panchakarma

or begin with a Shirodhara and feel the difference yourself.

Anna
21 July 2026
6:48 am
0 comments

Where healing begins,

and harmony returns.

Made by P. Felicijan with