Shiro Manual

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Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word that can be broken down to its roots in order to

understand its meaning: ayur means life and longevity; and veda means pure

knowledge. In fact, the vedas are volumes of sacred texts almost 3000 years

old in which many different teachings finally moved from the oral tradition to

the written, one of which was Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old science which had its birth in India. It is be-

lieved to be the oldest healing science still known to man. It covers every as-

pect of the human mind, body, and spirit, with its focus on happy, healthy lon-gevity. Everything from when to wake up, to how to take care of your skin, and

even how to prepare your meals is all included in the teachings of Ayurveda -

the “knowledge of life”.

In the Beginning… The Three GunasTo understand Ayurveda, one must first know that its foundation lies in the

Page 1 Shirodhara Manual for Practitioners

" Sa m a d o s a sa m a g n i s ca

Sam a d h a t u m a la k r i y a h

P r as an n a t m e n d r i y a m a n a h Sv a s a st h a i t y a b h i d i y a t e "

"He, being established in Self, who has balanced doshas, balanced appetiteand digestion, properly formed tissues, proper elimination of wastes, proper

functioning of the bodily processes, and whose mind, soul, and senses arefull of bliss is known as a healthy person."

From Susruta Samhita Sutrasthanam 15.38



Food Guidelines for a Vata pacifying diet:

Fruit: Sweet fruits including bananas, avocado, berries, kiwi, mangos,peaches, and all citrus fruits are most favorable.

Vegetables: Cooked vegetables such as asparagus, beets, carrots, greenbeans, and sweet potatoes are best. Avoid raw vegetables.

Grains: Rice, cooked oats, and wheat keep vata in balance.

Avoid barley, corn, and refined grains.Legumes: In general, beans aggravate vata because of their dry, gas

provoking quality. Limit intake of all beans except mung beans.Dairy: Most dairies are acceptable, but avoid goat’s and powdered milk.

Spices: All spices are good!


Ever described someone as a whirlwind? More than likely, the person referred to ispredominantly vata. A vata person usually has a light frame, is often either very

tall or very short, and has black, dry, frizzy hair. Their skin is dry, cold to thetouch and is slightly rough. They are prone to premature wrinkling, especiallysince they are sun worshippers and tend to be the ones with the darkest tan on the

beach. Their dark eyes and lips are dry and small. They have a meager appetitealong with an irregular diet and lifestyle. They are very creative and often veryspiritual. They are quite accommodating to the needs of others and very generouswith their time, money, and anything else they can offer. When they are stressed

out, fear and nervousness occur. When the Ether and Air elements are out of bal-ance the skin shows signs of dehydration, flakiness, and wrinkles. In the body,one will experience joint pain, chills, gas, constipation, and lower back pain. The

mind will be restless with anxiety, worry, and lack of focus. Many different factorsdisturb vata including stress, excess activity such as high impact aerobics, constanttravel, improper diet (including over-dieting or too much fasting), the dryness ofthe season of autumn, and especially an irregular routine.

Suggestions for a balanced lifestyle:Meditation

Warm water baths and steam bathsLow impact exercise and gentle yoga asanas (postures)

Vata pacifying foods including the sweet, sour, salty, and pungent tastes.Limit bitter and astringent foods.

Sesame oil self massage nightly (see self massage pages in the appendix)

Observe a regular routine every day




When a person “has both feet on the ground” or is “down to earth,” their primarydosha is probably kapha. A kapha person has a thicker build and tends to put on

weight easily. They have a curvy body and are often slightly taller than average.Their hair is dark and thick with lustrous waves. Their skin is soft, oily, and cold tothe touch, and when they are in balance, is the kind of skin every person wishes

they could have. Their dark eyes are large and bright and their teeth and lips areprominent as well. Kapha people have an average appetite, but tend to eat when

not hungry adding to their weight issues. They are usually very jovial and easy go-ing, and are very good with money. When the Water and Earth elements are outof balance, it will manifest on the skin as excessive oiliness, clogged pores, and

acne. In the body, those with a kapha predominant constitution will experienceweight gain, congestion, and a dull sleepy feeling. The mind will have depression,greed, and attachment. Some of the causes of a kapha imbalance are a lack of ac-tivity or exercise, improper diet (including emotional or over-eating), cold winter

weather, or wet, cool spring weather, and seclusion.

Suggestions for a balanced lifestyle:

Lots of exerciseWarm dry saunasHot teas

Social activitiesA light Kapha pacifying diet including bitter, sour, astringent, andpungent foods. Limit sweet and salty foods.Daily dry brushing with a natural bristle bath brushDeep, vigorous self massage with grapeseed or corn oil each morning

Food Guidelines for a Kapha pacifying diet:Fruit: Favor astringent fruit including apricot, cranberry, pear, apple, raisin

and pomegranate.Vegetables: All vegetables are good except cucumber, pumpkin, sweet

potato, raw tomatoes, and zucchini.Grains: Barley, corn, couscous, millet, and rye are acceptable. Avoid oats,

rice, and wheat.Legumes: Most beans are allowed, but avoid cold soy products and kidney

beans.Dairy: Dairy should be limited, and only taken when warm. Goat dairy is o

Spices: All spices are good, but avoid salt.



Shirodhara Manual for Practitioners page 8



Rasayana

Rasayana is like nectar for the gods, having

incomprehensible miraculous effects. It pro-motes long life, provides health and sustains

youthfulness. (Vedic Sutra)

Rasayana, rejuvenation therapy, is one of the eight branches of Ayurveda. It does not treatany one specific disease, but restores body functions and balance to achieve the maximum

potential of the body. Rasayana therapy is formulated to each individual’s constitution. Forthe purposes of shodana, rasayana is done by taking various rejuvenative substances, as well

as dietary and lifestyle changes

The most important and well known of all rasayanic sub-

stances is the fruit of the Emblic Myrobalan, also called amlaor amalaki. This fruit cleanses and restores the blood, bones,

liver, and heart. It rebuilds and maintains new bodily tis-sues, increases production of red blood cells, and is the high-

est natural source of vitamin C, containing 3000 milligrams per fruit. Amalaki is the main source of food taken during

kaya kalpa, which is the most rejuvenating and virilizing ofall ayurvedic procedures, taking months or sometimes a full

year to complete.

The Charaka Samhita (the main classical text on Ayurveda) says, "Rasayana therapy has for

its object the prolongation of human life, and the refreshment and invigoration of the mem-ory and the vital organs. It deals with formulas that enable one to retain youthful vigor up to

old age, and serve to make the human nervous system invulnerable to disease and decay.”

Summary

Shamana and shodana is an entire process dedicated to keeping a person healthy for an entire

lifetime. It is best done at least one time per year, and up to four times per year at the changeof the season. Those who dedicate themselves to this process notice amazing changes, and

those who do it regularly truly appear to not to age. It is an amazing experience that must betried in order to be fully understood. While the average massage therapist, chiropractor, or

aesthetician will not be providing or advising upon a shodana purification process, they mayhave clients that are referred to them to provide some of the shamana treatments, including

shirodhara treatment. Let Ayurvedic practitioners in your area know that you provide shi-rodhara as a service and you may be surprised at how many new clients come your way!




Shirodhara Explained

Shirodhara is both a profound and sub-tle experience. Traditionally, this treat-

ment is given daily in a series that lastsa week to twenty one days or more in

the Ayurvedic clinics of South India.It is one therapeutic component of an

over-all treatment plan, including diet,herbal preparations, and relaxation.

During this time, clients are encour-

aged not to engage in any activity thatstimulates thought. If one reads, the

material should be conducive to spiri-tuality. It is not advisable to engage in

intense physical or sexual activity.

Shirodhara cleanses both the mind and the senses, allowing the body's natural healingmechanisms to release stress from the nervous system. This improves mental clarity andcomprehension. The technician administers the oil in a thin stream which flows from a cop-

per vessel hung approximately 6-8 inches above the patient's forehead. Patterns of waves

across the forehead or zigzags up and down the forehead trigger the body to enter an alteredstate of consciousness, further deepening the client’s meditation. The treatment is best when

done in a warm, quiet room, and when given by a calm, patient, thoughtful, therapist.


The effect of shirodhara is different for each person. This treatment in particular representsan interface between the traditions of Yoga and Ayurveda. Because it isolates and focuses

the mind, it creates a meditative sense of awareness unmatched by any other treatment. Dhara, means "flow," and is contained in the word dharana which is one of the seven stages

of yogic realization. Dharana is translated as "concentration." The flow of liquid in a shirod-hara treatment is directed toward the ajna chakra, which is also known as the third eye. This

area of the forehead, located slightly above the space between the eyebrows, is associatedwith the pineal, pituitary, and hypothalamus glands, which dictate the organization and regu-

lation of all hormonal secretions. These hormonal secretions control not only the autonomic

responses which control digestion, breath, and elimination, but they are also responsible forour emotional state. Shirodhara effects the parasympathetic nervous system (also known as

the “rest and digest system”), which conserves the body’s energy as it slows heart rate, in-creases intestinal and gland activity, and relaxes sphincter muscles in the gastrointestinal

tract. This creates an unconscious consciousness during which the primal intelligence of our body can reorganize in a manner that leads to healing and well-being. For these reasons, shi-

rodhara can be applied for conditions of high Vata or Pitta, as well as insomnia, memoryloss, enhancement of meditation, and deepening ones relaxation to stimulate rejuvenation.



Herbal DecoctionWater can also be used to make an herbal tea to use in a shi-rodhara treatment. This is an easier alternative to making

herbalized oil, and certainly much quicker. This method al-lows the therapist to make a personalized mixture for each

client’s special needs, without needing advanced notice. Pittaand kapha constitutions will benefit most from this medium,

as oil tends to push these doshas out of balance. Make sureto strain all the herbs completely out of the tea before using

or you can risk clogging your equipment.

Other Combinations

One can use any combination of substances for a shirodhara treatment. Often times, milkwill be cooked into an herbalized oil to create a thick, very nourishing medium. Blend yo-gurt with a small amount of oil, or boil an herbal decoction into buttermilk. Essential oils,

extracts and hydrosols are highly beneficial when added to some of the bases listed above.The sky is the limit when it comes to what you can cook up.

Herbs

Amalaki Cooling, nutritive, promotes hair growthAshwaganda Rejuvenating (especially for men),

astringent, healing

Bhringaraj Drawing, anti-inflammatory, healing,cooling, indicated in baldness, premature

graying and alopecia, promotes sleep

Brahmi Purifies, rejuvenating, cooling, relievesskin conditions, revitalizes the brain

Jasmine Astringent, cooling, sattvic, increaseslove and compassion

Jatamansi Calming to nervous system, protective,especially good during the new moon

Lavender Healing, balancing, promotes sleep

Neem Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, purifying, antiseptic, antifungal.

Indicated where there is dandruff

Nutmeg Analgesic, sedative, warming.Indicated for headaches.

Scullcap Calms nervousness, convulsions,irritability, and insomnia; sedative,

lowers fever, and has anti-toxic effects.

Shatavari Nourishes and cleanses the blood andsupports the female reproductivefunctions.




Essential Oils

Sandalwood Cooling, soothing, promotes skin cell

turnoverRose Cooling, soothing, regenerating, increases

love and ojas

Nutmeg Analgesic, sedative, warming

Lavender Antiseptic, healing, balancing, stimulatingNirgundi/ Calms stress, especially good for

Vitex women’s hormonesHina Good for women’s emotions and during

menstruation

Ready Made BlendsSeveral oils on the market have herbs already cooked into them. Amla, Brahmi, Bhringaraj, Neem, Ashwaganda oils are easy to find as single herb mixtures or as part of a blend. There

are oils made specifically for shirodhara, even specific use oils to treat disorders and dis-eases. Look for them online or in Indian markets. Before buying, always check the ingredi-

ents to make sure the purity you want is there. (see appendix for suggestions on where to

find these oils)

Hymn to the Plants

Rig Veda, 1500 BCE, India

Herbs, you are born at the beginning of time,more ancient than the gods themselves.

O Plants, with this hymn I sing to you,our mothers and our gods.

The holy fig tree is your home.

Innumerable are your growths.You, who have a thousand powers,

free my patient from disease.

Fly, Spirit of Disease.

Be gone with the blue jay and the kingfisher.Fly with the wind's impetuous speed.

Vanish together with the storm.

Most excellent of all are you, O Plants.Your protectors are the trees.

Let be subject to your powershe who seeks to injure you.

When restoring vanished strength

I hold you, herbs, within my hand,And the Spirit of Disease departs,

cheated of another death.

Reliever is your mother's name.

Hence, restorers are you called.Rivers are you, with wings that fly.

Keep distant that which brings disease.

Unharmed be he who gently digs you up.

Unharmed the man for whom he digs.

And let no malady destroythe beings within your guardianship.




BenefitsShirodhara is meant for eliminating diseases of head and vata disorders af-fecting neck, eyes, ears, nose and nervous system. It is a curative as well asrejuvenating process as it eliminates diseases, improves vitality, andstrengthens sensory organs. It helps to relieve insomnia, stress, tension,

anxiety, anger, chronic headaches, rheumatism, hypertension, asthma, hairthinning, loss or premature graying, and gives mental relaxation. Shirodharahelps to overcome stress and its ill effects on the nervous system. It is indi-cated in cases of depression, epilepsy, paralysis, and Parkinson's disease.

Contraindications

Though shirodhara is generally a safe treatment, there are

instances where it is not beneficial. Because shirodharacauses the energy in the body to move in an upward direc-tion (udana vayu), it is important not to use it when energyshould be directed in a downward flow (apana vayu). For

example:

• Third trimester in pregnancy

• Menstruation

• Lactation

• Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol• Brain tumors

It is also important to be aware of conditions where a

calming treatment would not be indicated:

• Lethargy due to high Kapha

• Very low blood pressure• Severe debility

• Extremely high vata where the client is unable to sit still.

Shirodhara would not be tolerated by such an individual

The following conditions may be exacerbated by shirodhara:

• Rashes of the face, neck or scalp

• Recent facial or scalp surgery

• High aversion to oil


Benefits and Contraindicationsfor Shirodhara



Procedure:

1. When your client arrives take them into the treatment room. Tell them you will

step out to let them undress. Have them get onto the table and under the sheet and

blanket. Instruct them to lie facing upward with their head on the vinyl strip and

their neck

over

the

towel

roll.

2. After the client is on the table enter the room. Before doing anything else, make

sure they are comfortable. Ask them if they are warm enough.

3. Position the client with their head at the edge of the table. Let their hair hang

over the end. Place the towel roll under their neck and tuck the vinyl strip under

their head, but OVER the towel roll. Adjust the vinyl strip so that the edge of it is in

the pitcher below the table. Make sure that the towel roll is set comfortably under

their neck. Place the two rolled hand towels on either side of their head underneath

the vinyl

strip.

Bring

the

bottom

ends

of

the

vinyl

in

toward

each

other

to

make

the

strip form a cone. Make sure the sides of the vinyl do not touch the head, as this

will make the oil run on the outside of the strip.

4. Place a bolster under the client’s knees. Double‐check their comfort.

5. Let the client know that you will spray some rose water over their face and will

then place a cool wet washcloth over their eyes.

6. Test the oil temperature to make sure it is just right. If the oil is too warm, add

some fresh

oil

from

the

bottle.

If

it

is

too

cold,

quickly

warm

it

up.

A

temperature

between 102‐108 degrees is desirable. Now pour half of ht e oil into the empty

pitcher. Replace the other pitcher onto the burner

7. Position the shirodhara pot over the center of the client’s forehead near the hair‐

line. Make sure the tap on the copper pot is off. Pour the contents of the pitcher

that is not on the electric burner into the shirodhara pot. Adjust the setting on the

burner so it is between the 0 and the 1 on the dial.

8. Before starting the oil, let the client know that you will let the oil run in a few

moments. Tell

them

that

when

the

treatment

is

finished

you

will

quietly

leave

the

room to let them rest and then you will come back to help get them off the table.

Make sure the client understands that they may tell you if the temperature is un‐

comfortable. Encourage them to start to focus on their breathing. Turn on the tap

and let the oil run onto their forehead. Ask if the temperature is ok. Take the oil

very slowly around their hairline in order to coat the entire scalp. End with the oil

on the third eye. Make sure the oil is not touching the washcloth or it will start to

run into their eyes. You may ask if the oil temperature is comfortable once again,

but otherwise do not do any talking after this time.





9. Pour the contents of the second pitcher into the shirodhara pot. To do this move the vinyl

strip into the empty pitcher. Take the half‐full pitcher off the electric burner and set it down

on a table next to you. Now, quietly set the empty pitcher on the electric burner. Refill the

copper pot with the warm oil from the pitcher that just came off the burner. Do this as qui‐

etly as

possible

so

as

not

to

disturb

the

client’s

meditation.

10. Keep checking the oil temperature during the treatment. As the pitcher on the burner

fills to the halfway point repeat this process. You will likely need to do this every 3 to 4 min‐

utes until your treatment is over. Generally a shirodhara treatment will run 20 to 30 minutes.

When finished, let the oil run completely out of the copper pot and cover the hole with your

hand to make sure it does not start to drip. Taking the shirodhara pot and the empty pitcher

with you, quietly leave the room.

11. Wash the shirodhara pot and extra pitcher in a different room. Place a quarter size dol‐

lop of

dish

soap

on

a damp

sponge.

Without

wetting

any

of

the

equipment,

rub

everything

down with the soap. Rinse and dry.

12. Re‐enter the room. The client may be asleep. Let them know you are there by removing

the towel rolls from the sides of their head. Straighten out the vinyl strip and remove the

washcloth from their eyes. Now you can talk to them and ask them how they are feeling.

Gently squeeze the oil out of their hair. Have them lift their head so you may remove the

towel roll and vinyl strip. Let the vinyl strip rest in the pitcher until ready for cleanup. Use

the large towel under their head to help absorb the rest of the oil out of their hair

13. Take

5 drops

of

essential

oil

into

your

palm.

Spray

some

rosewater

into

the

oil

and

close

your palms together. Hold your hands just above the clients’ face and encourage them to in‐

hale deeply. As they exhale, apply the mixture avoiding eye area.

14. Begin Marma Therapy on the face neck and scalp (see Ayurvedic Facial Massage Se‐

quence)

15. Remove the blanket. Tell the client you will be holding up the sheet over your eyes and

they can sit up facing away from you. Wrap the sheet under their arms and around their

body. Come around the table to help them stand up. They may be a little disoriented. Escort

them into

the

bathroom

for

their

shower.

Advise

them

that

it

is

preferable

to

leave

the

oil

in

the hair for some time, but if they must remove it to put the shampoo into their hair before

wetting in order to assist removal of all the oil. Thank them and leave them to their shower.

16. Begin the rest of your clean up. Dispose of shirodhara medium (see options for oil dis‐

posal in Appendix.) Wipe the vinyl strip down with a paper towel. Take the second pitcher

and the vinyl strip to the sink. Wash as before, rinse, and dry. Wipe down the stand and mas‐

sage table with a dry towel, and then a moist towel with a cleaner like Citra Solve or Simple

Green.



Electrical Shirodhara

Treatment

Preparation: Before the client arrives set the table with two sheets and a blanket on top. Turn

down the top sheet and blanket so the table looks inviting. Cover the head of the

table with

the

large

bath

towel

for

the

hair.

Lay

the

rolled

bath

mat

at

the

head

of

the table on top of the large towel. Place the vinyl strip on the rolled bath mat.

Make sure the shirodhara stand and shirodhara pot are set up. Position the electric

burner under the head of the table on the shelf of the shiro stand. Fill the pitcher

with 7 cups of shirodhara oil. Set it on the electric burner and turn the dial on high

for 1‐2 minutes, then turn it off (this is usually done 20 minutes before the start of

the treatment). Have any extra oil you have left over near by. Just before your cli‐

ent arrives, place the pump in the pitcher and situate the vinyl tubing to empty into

your shirodhara vessel. (see tips in appendix)


Materials Needed: Massage table

2 sheets

Blanket

1 Large towel

2 rolled hand towels

1 rolled bath mat

1 wet

wash

cloth

1 vinyl strip

1 Copper Pitcher

Pump with tubing

Electric Burner

Shirodhara stand

Copper shirodhara pot

Knee bolster

Stool or chair

Optional: an on/off

switch

to

plug

the

pump

into

Products Needed: 6‐8 cups Shirodhara Oil

Dosha balancing essential oil

Rosewater spray




10.Keep checking the oil temperature during the treatment. Be as quiet as possible so as not

to disturb the client’s meditation.

11.Throughout the treatment, keep an eye on the oil level in the copper pitcher. If the oil

level drops to just above the top of the pump, unplug (or switch off) the pump. This will

make a slight gurgling noise. Restart the pump only after the pitcher has refilled for a mo‐

ment, or until the shirodhara vessel has about one cup of oil left in it.

12.At the end of the treatment turn off the tap on the shirodhara vessel and cover the hole

with your hand to make sure it does not start to drip. Turn off the pump. Quietly leave the

room for about five minutes to let the client rest.

13. Re‐enter the room. The client may be asleep. Let them know you are there by removing

the towel rolls from the sides of their head. Straighten out the vinyl strip and remove the

washcloth from their eyes. Now you can talk to them and ask them how they are feeling.

Gently squeeze the oil out of their hair. Have them lift their head so you may remove the

towel roll and vinyl strip. Set the vinyl strip in the pitcher until you are ready for clean up.

Use the large towel under their head to help absorb the rest of the oil out of their hair

14. Take 5 drops of essential oil into your palm. Spray some rosewater into the oil and close

your palms together. Hold your hands just above the clients’ face and encourage them to

inhale deeply. As they exhale, apply the mixture avoiding eye area.

15. Begin Marma Therapy for the head (see Ayurvedic Facial Massage Sequence)

16. Remove

the

blanket.

Tell

the

client

you

will

be

holding

up

the

sheet

over

your

eyes

and

they can sit up facing away from you. Wrap the sheet under their arms and around their

body. Come around the table to help them stand up. They may be a little disoriented. Es‐

cort them into the bathroom for their shower. Advise them that it is preferable to leave the

oil in the hair for some time, but if they must remove it, to put the shampoo into their hair

before wetting in order to all of the oil. Thank them and leave them to their shower.

17. Begin clean up. Dispose of shirodhara medium (see options for oil disposal in Appen‐

dix.) Wipe the vinyl strip down with a paper towel. Take the copper pitcher, vinyl strip,

pump

and

shirodhara

vessel

to

the

sink.

Allow

the

pump

to

drain

for

a

few

minutes.

Place

a

dollop of dish soap on a damp sponge. Without wetting any of the equipment, rub every‐

thing down with the soap. Next, place more soap and a disinfectant in the copper pitcher.

Fill it with water and drop in the pump. Turn the pump on, letting the water run through

the tubing. Keep water running from the faucet into the pitcher as you do this. Empty the

pitcher and refill it with denatured alcohol. Run the pump for one minute, then remove the

tubing from the pump and hang to dry. Set the pump aside to dry. Rinse and dry the vinyl

strip, shirodhara pot, and pitcher. Wipe down the stand and massage table with a towel,

then a moist towel with a cleaner like Citra solve or Simple Green.



16. Circles on the temples, 7x with firm pressure.

17. Alternating hands, stroke up the forehead using the whole palm, 7x.

18. Hand over hand, stroke medial to lateral on forehead 7x.

19. Circles on temples with index an ring finger, 7x.

20. Run hands down the sides of the face and neck return to the starting position on

trapezius.

21. Repeat the circles on upper traps 7x.

22. Place thumb on the amsa marma point on the joint where the clavicle meets the scapula.

Press and hold for 7 seconds.

23. Glide hands up the back of the neck to the occipital bone; Hold pressure with yourfingertips.

24. Massage the ears, both at the same time. Gently tug down at the lobe, sideways on theedge, and upward at the top of the ear 3x each point.

25. Squeeze marma point in the center of chin. Hold for 7 seconds. Glide to the point half way between the chin and TMJ, press and hold 7 seconds. Glide to TMJ, press and hold

7 seconds.

26. Press thumbs above upper lip and hold for 7 seconds. Glide under maxillary arch, press

and hold 7 seconds. Glide next to ear, press and hold 7 seconds.

27. Press on both sides of the nose and hold for 7 seconds, glide to top of maxillary arch,

press and hold for 7 seconds. Glide to temples, press and hold 7 seconds.

28. Using ring finger, press inside corners of the eyes 7 seconds, glide to inferior orbital

ridge, press and hold 7 seconds, glide to outside corner of eyes, press and hold on outerorbital ridge 7 seconds.

29. Press avarta marmas. Hold 7 seconds.

30. Squeeze along superior orbital ridge in 3-4 points as in step #12. Hold each point 3 sec-

onds.

31. Using thumb massage third eye. Press thumbs up the midline of the forehead to the

crown chakra. Massage the scalp. Gently and slowly remove your hands.





•Attach the shelving to the stand before assembling the rest of the unit.

•Tighten the union joints with wrenches as you put each piece together.

•If the arm of the stand is sticking in the joint, wipe it with Vaseline.

•Place the slider and chain on the arm of the shirodhara stand last.

•Be sure the hole in your pot is free from debris by running a pipe cleaner in the valve before th

first use and between each use. Hair can get caught in the valve during the treatment as well. It

is a good idea to have something rigid nearby to run through the hole in this case.

•If using the shirodhara pump, insert the tubing into the hose clamp provided, then attach the tub

ing to the pump. Tighten the hose clamp down with a screw driver so that the tubing adheres to

the pump.

•Place the electric burner on the shelving, and your oil into the pitcher. Place the oil on the heat

approximately 10 minutes before the shirodhara will begin. If using a pump DO NOT PLACE

THE PUMP IN THE OIL YET. Turn the burner to the highest setting for about 1 minute. The

turn the burner completely off. Wait 10 minutes. Your oil should be to the proper temperature fo

a warm shirodhara treatment. You may now place the pump in the oil.

•If using the pump, wrap the tubing around the stand and insert as shown, avoiding kinks. If yo

tubing has kinks in it, pinch the kink and bend it the opposite direction. This will round the hos

•Make sure the valve on the shirodhara pot is off. The lever should be turned upward. To open

the valve, simply place the lever pointing downward.

•When you start the oil, turn the dial on the burner to between the 0 and 1. Because the burner

has a self regulating thermostat the light may not stay on during the entire treatment.

•When finished, close the valve on the shirodhara pot, unplug the pump, and turn the burner off

•To keep your burner, pan and shirodhara pot clean, simply place a quarter sized dollop of liquid

dish soap on a lightly damp sponge. Wipe down completely before rinsing with any water. Dra

the pump, then set it in a bath of alcohol for 1-2 minutes to kill germs and remove oil residues.

•To bring your stand back to a shine, scrub with a dry Heavy Duty Green Scotch Brite pad.

Tips for Setting up and Maintaining Ajara

Shirodhara Equipment




Instructions for Assembly of the Ajara Shirodhara Stand

SliderPlace the two copper straps together. Put one screw into one adjoining side and attach a nut. Now put thechain on the bottom of the two straps. Place the two straps onto the arm and insert the second screw. Tighten

both nuts down with a pliers and screw driver.

ShelfCenter the shelf on the stand, so that there are holes running along each side of the center pole. Place a screw

into a washer and insert from the top of the shelf into the fourth hole from the front of the shelf, along each sideof the pole. Place the tube strap over the screws, and tighten each one down with a single nut. See picture #1Do the same thing on the back end of the shelf. This time, insert the screws in the second hole from the back.

See picture #2.

Front underneath Back underneath with strap and nuts

Complete shelf

Top Slider (side view) Top Slider (front view)




Next, bring the tubing to the other side of the shi-rodhara pot, near the opposite ring. Insert the tub-

ing into the opposite ring from the OUTSIDE to-

ward the inside. The end of the tubing should now

be pointing into the shirodhara pot, and the pot

should be hanging mostly level.

Slide the tubing through both rings until it curls up in

the bottom of the shirodhara pot. Make sure that the

tubing is not hanging anywhere near the client’s head orin the way of the shirodhara stream. Straighten out the

tubing so the oil will run smoothly. Avoid kinking the

tube anywhere along the way.

1 Wrap the vinyl hose around the shaft of the shirodhara

stand. Once the tubing reaches the level of the top of

the copper pot, run the tubing through one of the rings

on the chain going from the outside toward the inside.

2

3

Open the intake vent on the pump all the way, so that the lever runs horizon-

tally. Submerge the pump in the warm oil and adhere the suction cup feet to

the bottom of the pot. Make sure the pump is completely covered with oil, or itwill make noise, and then stop running properly. Turn the pump on by plug-

ging it into the wall. The pump will make a slight whirring noise at first while

it is getting started, and then will be quiet. Once the oil has been running for a

minute or two, you may choose to close the intake vent slightly so the oil runs

slower. Monitor the oil level throughout the treatment. For someone with very

long or porous hair, more oil may need to be added during the treatment.

How to use the Shirodhara Oil Pump




Complete Shirodhara Systems

We have put together two system packages to meet all of your shirodhara needs. One sys-

tem is our traditional hands on system where the therapist pours the shirodhara oil, and theother is our electrical system that employs the use of a pump. With either system, these

packages take all of the guesswork out of purchasing your shirodhara equipment.

Complete Electrical Shirodhara Setup

This package includes all the equipment needed for performing a virtually hands free shirodhara. Espe-

cially beneficial for the therapist with shoulder or backinjuries, it requires no heavy oil pan lifting. Just turn

the pump on and let the oil flow! Using this hands-free

system also allows for Reiki or subtle marma pointtherapy during the treatment.

System includes:Copper shirodhara stand

Copper shirodhara vessel with control valve

Electric Solid Element Burner1 2 quart Copper Pitcher

Electric oil pump with 6'4" of hoseVinyl strip

Complete Hands-On Shirodhara Set-up

This is the traditional system for giving a shirodhara treat-

ment. With this hands-on application, the flow of oilcomes from the copper pot, onto the client’s third eye,

down the hair and vinyl strip, and into the warming pan,where the flow continues with the shirodhara therapist re-

pouring the warmed oil back into the copper vessel. While

this method requires skill and an ability to quiet one's ownmind, it is the most energetically positive way to give a

shirodhara treatment

Set-up includes:Copper Shirodhara Stand

Copper Shirodhara pot w/control valve2 2 quart Copper Pitchers

Electric Solid Element BurnerVinyl Strip



Daily Massage for Health

According to the teachings of Ayurveda, oil massage should be done everysingle day. Obviously, the expense of receiving a daily massage from a

therapist is cost prohibitive enough to make anyone stop reading this arti-

cle. But daily massage does not have to be given by another person. It can

be done right in the comfort of your home, given by your own hands.

The best time to give yourself a massage is about 15 minutes before your

daily bath or shower. This act is very similar to the snehana and swedana

mentioned earlier in the section on shodana. The massage can be as sim-

ple as slapping on some oil, or as elaborate as you would receive from the

best massage therapist in town. The choice is yours. Just making the deci-

sion to take care of yourself through daily oil massage is a step in the right

direction.

ProcedureThe best way to undertake the process of self massage is to

start by choosing the most suitable oil for your doshic type.

Generally speaking, vata types should choose heavy, heating

oils, pitta needs a medium viscosity cooling oil, and kapha

does best with a light, thin, warming oil. Refer to the sec-tions on vata, pitta, and kapha for suggestions.


Next, warm a few tablespoons of oil and place it in a oil warmer. It is best not

to use a microwave to heat your oil. You can also warm it on the stove (this

only takes a couple of seconds), or fill a dispenser bottle with oil and place it in

a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.

Lay a large bath towel on a chair or on the floor in the bathroom. Situate your-

self on the towel, oil in hand, and begin your massage.

The following steps will get you started. You can modify or elaborate on any of

the strokes listed, or make up your own. There are no rules when it comes to

self massage!



1. Put one hand on top of the foot and the other under the sole, then stroke

smoothly from your toes to your ankles. Glide your hands back to your toes

and repeat.

2. Support your foot with one hand and work on each toe individually.

Squeeze it firmly, and gently stretch each toe with a gentle pull.

3. Stroke around the ankle with your fingertips. Stroke up the backside of

the ankle, then over the top and down the front side. Finish by stroking the

foot as you did at the beginning

4. Mold your hands to the shape of your leg, rest your foot flat, and bend

your knee up. Gliding up with one hand on each side of the leg, begin at the

foot and stroke smoothly up the calf, over the knee and up to the top of the

thigh. Repeat five times.5. Stroke clockwise around your abdomen with one hand following the other

in a circle, using the whole surface of your hands.

6. Glide up and down your sides from your hip bone to your rib cage

7. Reach around your body and firmly glide hands upward from the hip to

the bottom of your shoulder blades. Glide down with a gentle pressure.

8. Make fists and glide from hip to the bottom of your shoulder blade with

your knuckles.

9. Reach your left hand over your right shoulder as far as you can. Pull with

your fingers from in between the shoulder blades, up over the shoulder,

ending on the front of your chest. 10. Starting with the left hand on the right shoulder glide over the top of

the collar bone, across the chest to the underarm. Do the same with the

right hand on the left shoulder. Alternate like this, repeating four times

each hand.

11. With fingers pointing toward the head, glide in an upward motion on

each side of the breast/pectoral muscle. Repeat five times on each side.

12. Place your left hand on your right shoulder . Mold your hand to the

curve of your neck. Starting at the base of your skull, stroke down the side

of your neck, over your shoulder and down your arm to the elbow. Glideback to your neck and repeat at least three times. Then do the other side.

13. Work up the neck and around the base of the skull, making circular

pressures with your fingertips on both sides of the spine.

14. Knead each shoulder; squeeze and release the flesh on your shoulders

and at the top of your arms.




15. Smooth your whole arm by stroking from the wrist to the shoulder.

Stroke firmly as you move up the arm, then glide gently back and repeat.16. Knead all the way up your arm, squeezing and releasing the muscles.

Pay particular attention to the fleshy part at the back of the upper arm.

17. Stroke in between each bone in the hand from knuckle to wrist using

your thumb.

18. Turn your hand over and support the back with your fingers. Do firm cir-

cular and static pressures with your thumb, working all over the palm and

around the wrist.

19 Tilt your head to one side, mold your hand to the shape of your neck,

and stroke from the collarbone to the chin, one hand following the other. Re-

peat on the other side.20. Make small circular pressures all over your chin and around your mouth

with the index and middle fingers of each hand.

21. Stroke from the corners of your mouth to your ears. Use one hand on

each cheek and move them both out together. Then, stroke from your

mouth to your ear, using the tips of your fingers.

22. Mold your hands to the shape of your forehead. Stroke up from the

bridge of your nose to your hairline with one hand following the other.

23. Place both index fingers on the bridge of your nose and make short,

firm strokes upward first, then across.

24. Make circular pressures all over your forehead, working in lines from the

bridge of your nose to your temples, to cover the whole forehead up to your

hairline. Press firmly, but do not drag your skin. Then stroke your forehead

gently with your fingertips to soothe it after the last circular movement.

25. Stroke from the center of your forehead to your temples. Then, circle

slowly and steadily on the temples to stimulate the muscle.

26. Stroke in a circle around your eyes with your middle fingers. Stroke

firmly and evenly from the bridge of your nose out over your eyebrows, press

on your temples, then glide lightly under your eyes, barely touching the skin.

27 Massage your scalp by pressing firmly with your fingers. Start with yourfingers spread out, then bring them in toward each other. Most scalp mas-

sage feels best with deep pressure.

28 Slide your fingers through the roots of your hair. Gripping large

amounts of hair gently make a fist and pull outward. Do this all over your

entire scalp.




Resources

From Nature With LovePO Box 201Haleyville CT 06440

USAPhone: 203.267.6061

Fax: 203.267.6065www.FromNatureWith Love.com

Carries Dead Sea water by theGallon as well as many hydrosols

and aloe liquid.

Bottles

SKS Bottle Companywww.sks-bottle.com2600 7th Avenue

Building 60 WestWatervliet, NY 12189

Phone: 518.880.6980Fax: 518.880.6990

Sunburst Bottle Company4500 Beloit DriveSacramento, CA 95838

www.sunburstbottle.comPhone: 916.929.4500

Fax: 916.929.3604

ED Luce Packaging13422 Alondra BlvdCerritos, CA 90703

www.essentialsupplies.com

Phone: 562.802.0515Fax: 562.802.0501

Sacred Stone Healing554 E Main RdMiddletown RI 02842

USAPhone: 401.846.6380

www.sacredstonehealing.com

Shirodhara Equipment and Training


Shirodhara Oils and other Substances

Banyan Botanicals6705 Eagle Rock Ave, NEAlbuquerque NM 87113

USAPhone: 1800.953.6424

www.BanyanBotanicals.com

Ajara Ayurvedic Beauty3303 S New York AveMilwaukee WI 53207

Phone: 414.559.2299Fax: 623.433.3772

www.AjaraSkinCare.com

A Muzda Enterprises Albuquerque NM

Phone: 505.269.5409Email: [email protected]

Carries essential oils, anduniquely blended oil as well as base oils. Check here for all

the rare ingredients you need.

Diamond Way AyurvedaPO Box 13753

San Luis Obispo, CA 93406Phone: 805.453.9291

www.diamondwayayurveda.com

Ajara Ayurvedic Beauty3303 S New York AveMilwaukee WI 53207

Phone: 414.559.2299Fax: 623.433.3772

www.AjaraSkinCare.com



About Ajara Ayurvedic Beauty

Our Humble Beginnings

Nicole Hinterstocker founded Ajara AyurvedicBeauty in January of 2002. As a Massage Thera-pist and Ayurvedic Practitioner at the AyurvedicInstitute in Albuquerque, NM, she became inter-ested in the use of herbs for skin care. After do-ing research based upon suggestions from Dr.Vasant Lad (a leading Ayurvedic Physician andfounder of the Ayurvedic Institute) the parameters

were clear: the products must be all natural, theymust be dosha specific, and they must containpotent (but gentle) ayurvedic herbs. From theseguidelines Ajara was born, starting out only with acleanser and oil for each dosha. The Ajara prod-uct line continues to grow steadily by continuallyworking on new skin, body, hair care items andshirodhara equipment based on traditional ay-urvedic values.

Our Mission

To provide affordable, effective skin care for-mulas using the most natural and ethicallygrown ingredients possible while staying trueto real Ayurvedic Principles.

Our Vision

Combining Ayurveda with sound

skin care methods to promotehealth and happiness in peoplefrom all over the globe.


Shiro Manual

Documents

Transcript of Shiro Manual