Why it Works … Shirodhara and Kerala Ritual

Massage is usually the default spa treatment for relaxation, but with large amounts of tension being held in our neck and face, the Shirodhara and Kerala Ritual at Ardencote Manor Hotel and Spa is an alternative experience known for its effects on headaches, migraines and anxiety.

What exactly is the Shirodhara and Kerala Ritual?

It is a 90 minute treatment and involves a constant flow of warm oil onto the third eye, combined with a delicate head massage.  The experience starts with a consultation to decide which personality type the client is, in keeping with Ayurvedic tradition, this affects the direction that the oil is poured from to suit the client’s needs.  With that knowledge, the oil is warmed, and poured through a vessel into a constant flow onto the forehead and third eye.  The oil then flows onto the head and scalp, and at this stage we do the scalp massage.  Kerala, which is a form of massage, is then used on pressure points across the face, to dispel negative energies, and stress.

Where does it come from?

It is a treatment based on Indian Ayurvedic philosophy, so it has its roots in ancient principles.

What is it supposed to do?

It relieves accumulated stress, relaxes, and stimulates the chakras, so it is great for headaches, migraines, anxiety and general relaxation.  It also boosts circulation, and promotes general wellness.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

We recommend you leave the oil on your hair after the treatment, wrap it up in a towel and go and sit in the sauna and steam rooms for a while to create a really nourishing treatment for the hair.  We also recommend having a course of treatments - perhaps once a week for six weeks if stress is a real concern.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

It’s great for anyone who has a high pressured job, and ladies with long hair love it because it leaves the hair really shiny afterwards.  We all need help relieving stress however, and as we tend to hold tension in our head and neck, this is always a really popular treatment - just as popular as a massage.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have this treatment and why?

It isn’t advisable to have it if you are pregnant or are being treated for cancer.