Shirodhara in San Ramon

Shirodhara is also one of the therapies in Preeti’s Panchakarma programs, a deeper reset over several days to two weeks.

How much does Shirodhara cost in San Ramon?

Shirodhara is $150 for 60 minutes. That covers the head and face massage and the pour, with the fluid chosen for you. No insurance is accepted; HSA and FSA cards usually work, and you get a receipt.

Preeti plans every Shirodhara around your health history, so ask for it on your free 15-minute call or at your First Visit. You can also phone (925) 380-6078.

What happens during Shirodhara?

The name joins two Sanskrit words, shiro for head and dhara for flow. The session starts with a relaxing head massage. Then warm oil, or milk or buttermilk when that suits you better, is poured in a continuous stream over the forehead, the spot Ayurveda calls the third eye (the Ajna chakra). The head and face massage belongs to the same 60 minutes.

Which oil does Preeti use for Shirodhara?

She chooses the fluid for your constitution (Prakriti) and your current imbalance (Vikriti). Oil is called Tailadhara, buttermilk is Takradhara, and milk or an herbal decoction is Ksheeradhara. Four common choices:

• Coconut oil is cooling and soothing, so it suits a pitta imbalance.

• Sesame oil suits vata imbalances. It helps with anxiety and dryness and encourages relaxation.

• Buttermilk is a favorite for headaches, insomnia and stress.

• Bhringaraj oil is known for helping with stress, hair fall and sound sleep.

What do people book Shirodhara for?

Shirodhara is generally chosen by people who want a calmer mind and body, especially with chronic headaches, stress or insomnia. Clients choose it to support:

• Calm and relaxation, with less stress and anxiety

• Deep, restful sleep when sleep is disturbed

• Chronic headaches

• Mental clarity, memory and concentration, with regular sessions

• A nourished scalp and healthy hair growth

In Ayurvedic terms Shirodhara balances vata dosha, particularly prana vata, which governs the brain, nerves and sensory perception. Preeti confirms it suits you on the free call or at your consultation.

Who should skip Shirodhara?

Gentle as it is, Shirodhara is not for everyone. It is not suited to severe head injuries or brain conditions, to a cold, flu or fever, or to a skin ailment or rash on the forehead or scalp. Tell Preeti about every health condition and every medication you take, and she plans the session around them.

How should I prepare for Shirodhara?

Before a Shirodhara, Preeti asks:

• Please don’t eat anything for one hour before your appointment, water is okay.

• Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting oily.

• To avoid exposure to cold wind, it’s recommended to wear fully covered clothing.

• Bring a towel to cover your head on the way back home!

The clinic has no shower for after your session, so plan for that. It is at 401 Market Place in San Ramon, open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, by appointment. Clients drive in from Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton and Walnut Creek.

What should I do after Shirodhara?

After the session, plan to rest, shower and eat a warm, cooked, fresh meal. Some people like to keep the oil overnight, which is okay, but if you feel congested or heavy-headed, then it’s time to wash off the oil.

More questions about Shirodhara

Is Shirodhara the same as an Ayurvedic head massage?

No. A head and face massage is part of your session, and the continuous pour of warm oil over the forehead is Shirodhara itself.

How long is a Shirodhara session?

A session is 60 minutes and costs $150.

Does insurance cover Shirodhara?

No. HSA and FSA cards usually work, and you get a receipt.

How do I book Shirodhara?

Start with the free 15-minute call, or phone (925) 380-6078. Preeti arranges Shirodhara in conversation with you, because every session is planned around your health history.