The practice of Ayurveda classifies a client into one of three main doshas, or constitutions: vata, pitta and kapha. The dosha determines the client’s Ayurvedic treatment, which could include shirodhara.

In Sanskrit, shiro means head and dhara means continuous flow. Sanskrit is an ancient language from southern Asia with many layers, so some interpretations may vary. 

While shirodhara can be practiced with stationary equipment that consists of a stand, dhara pot and liquid-collection bowl, it can also be practiced with a handheld vessel. There are a few basic but essential items required to practice the handheld method:

 • Liquid, which could include milk, tea or oil

• Copper vessel for the pour (although other materials may be used)

As examples of low-cost shirodhara-practice products, Dollar Tree sells twin-bed plastic covers that can be used to cover a massage table, for $1.25.  They also sell extra-large puppy pads to keep the floor clean, also for $1.25. These two items are disposable and cost $2.50 plus tax, per treatment.

Depending on the liquid being used, this could cost anywhere from a few pennies to a couple dollars or more. Inexpensive tea bags would be the least cost option while the price of oil may be the most expensive. The cost of oil can vary largely, depending on the type and brand.

The copper vessel is a one-time investment and should hold at least 16 ounces of liquid. It is reusable and can cost less than $100.  The collection bowl could be another Dollar Tree item, where they sell large mixing bowls with a handle and a spout for $1.25

Training would likely only be pennies per treatment if you practice a couple shirodhara sessions per week for a few years. Learning shirodhara practice can be completed in as little as one day in a qualified CE class, but keep in mind that practitioners who have a greater amount of Ayurvedic training will be able to provide better and greater Ayurvedic treatment options for their clients.

1. Cover the massage table with a plastic or vinyl covering. Using something that’s disposable will make for an easy clean-up.

2. Place the collection bowl on the floor, underneath where the liquid will be poured. The liquid will run directly over the client and into the receiving bowl.

3. Place a disposable puppy pad under the collection bowl to absorb any splashes. Lowering the treatment table closer to the floor can also help avoid splashing issues. 

4. After treatment, the four corners of the puppy pad can simply be folded and disposed of, without a mess. If oil was used, provide the oil collected in the receiving bowl to the client for take home use in showers, baths or self-massage.

Between eight and 16 ounces of fluid are used during a shirodhara session, depending on the liquid medium. Warming the liquid is essential for a comfortable treatment. A proper intake process to determine the client’s dosha is also necessary.

While individual assessments must occur prior to any Ayurvedic practice or bodywork, a generalized liquid selection based on dosha classification would be:

• A vata constitution might select shirodhara with olive or sesame oil.

• A pitta constitution might select shirodhara with whole cow’s milk and nut milks such as almond milk.

• A kapha constitution might select shirodhara with green, black, chamomile or ginger tea.

Some select other oils, milks and teas may be used beyond this short list. Traditional spices and herbs may also be added to some of the liquid mediums to enhance the experience, depending on the client’s intake and dosha classification. 

There are several other components practiced in shirodhara, which are commonly taught in a well-rounded CE class.  These are just a few.

While we have shared methods of how to practice shirodhara on a budget, using the disposable items may not be the most environmentally friendly option.  Forgoing the mess with disposables can make a safer and quicker treatment.  However, using rewashable linens when not using oil is an option.

Research shows shirodhara to be helpful with headaches, insomnia, stress and anxiety. Once trained, it’s easy to practice too. Shirodhara can be applied in a seated position behind the client, so it is considered less labor- intensive than most massage modalities.

We hope this information provides a better sense that shirodhara treatment is fairly accessible, and could open new doors and dimensions for massage practice.

Desiree Collazo is an Ayurvedic consultant, practitioner and Swami of the Shiva Kriya Yoga School of Divine Value. Selena Belisle is the founder of CE Institute LLC.  Together, they have over 50 years of industry experience. CeInstitute.com offers computer-based Ayurvedic continuing education training in a prerecorded webinar plus live webinars options. In-person classes are also available in downtown Miami, Florida.

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