Shero Abhyanga: Ayurvedic Head massage for Hair Growth, Stress Relief & Healthy Hair

In Ayurveda, the human body is often visualized as an inverted tree—its roots at the top and branches below. In this model, the head represents the roots, the torso forms the trunk, and the arms and legs are the branches.

Just as roots nourish and support a tree, the head is seen as the control center of the entire body. It houses the brain—the seat of consciousness—and the primary sense organs through which we engage with the world.

Within this framework, special attention is given to Marma points—the body’s vital energy centers. These are areas where Prana (life force) is stored, transformed, and directed throughout the body and mind. Each Marma is also closely associated with the three governing energies or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

Ayurvedic texts identify 107 Marma points throughout the body—vital energy centers where muscles, veins, ligaments, bones, and joints meet. Of these, 37 Marma points are located in the head and neck region, reflecting its profound impact on both physical health and mental clarity. This area is considered especially significant in Ayurveda due to its close connection with the senses and the mind.

What is Shero Abhyanga?

Shero Abhyanga is the ancient Ayurvedic ritual of head massage, using warm, herbal oils like Ohria’s Japa Pushpa Hair Oil infused with potent botanicals, Japa oil is especially known for strengthening roots, reducing hair fall, and calming the mind. Far more than a relaxing scalp treatment, it is a deeply therapeutic practice that works on the body’s Marma points—vital energy centers located in the head and neck region. This sacred massage stimulates blood circulation, nurtures the scalp and hair roots, and activates the nervous system’s calming response. By harmonizing the body's doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—Shero Abhyanga supports mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical vitality.

Key Marma Points Stimulated During Head Massage

1. Adhipati Marma: Located at the crown of the head, this point sits about eight finger-widths above the eyebrows, right at the center of the skull. It’s often referred to as the “soft spot” and is deeply connected to mental clarity and consciousness.
2. Simantaka Marma: Found roughly twelve finger-widths above the eyebrows, this point lies where the hair tends to spiral or form a natural swirl. It’s a powerful energy center linked to calming the mind and regulating prana.
3. Krikatika Marma: These twin points are positioned at the base of the skull on either side of the top neck vertebra, where the neck joins the head. Massaging here helps relieve tension, especially from prolonged stress or poor posture.
4. Vidhuram Marma: Tucked into the natural hollow just behind each earlobe, this point supports auditory health and helps soothe the nervous system when stimulated gently.
5. Shankha Marma: Located at the temples—between the outer end of the eyebrows and the hairline—these points are well known for relieving headaches, reducing eye strain, and calming the senses. (Caution: stimulate gently if doing by yourself. Do not overstimulate these points)

Preparation for Shiro Abhyanga:

1. Assemble Your Tools – Grab your Japa Pushpa Hair Oil, a Kansa Wand, and Kansa Katori to enhance absorption. Keep a towel handy to protect your clothing. Avoid using plastic with warm oil, as it can interfere with the purity of the treatment. Caution: Always use lukewarm oil—never hot—especially on the head, to maintain balance and safety.and a towel to protect your clothing.
2. Section Your Hair – Divide your hair into manageable sections to make the application process easier.
3. Warm the Oil (Optional) – Gently warm the oil to help it absorb better into the scalp and enhance relaxation.

Application:

Gently massage Japa Pushpa Hair Oil into your scalp, focusing on areas with thinning or greying, and work it through the lengths of your hair for deep nourishment. Use the Kansa Wand, starting at the forehead—stimulate Marma points with the smaller head, and massage the scalp using the larger head to boost circulation and absorption. Follow with a 10–15 minute finger massage, adding a little extra oil to the baby soft point (seven to eight fingers above the eyebrows).

Leave the oil on for at least an hour, or preferably overnight for best results. Wash with a natural, chemical-free shampoo, and avoid hot water—use room temperature or lukewarm water to rinse gently. Style as usual.

Benefits

Japa Pushpa Hair Oil is a powerful blend that combats premature greying, stimulates hair growth, and smooths frizz, leaving your hair nourished and soft. When paired with the Kansa Wand, it not only enhances circulation and promotes relaxation but also maximizes the absorption of the oil, boosting its effectiveness. Together, they work in harmony to strengthen hair, restore balance to the scalp's pH, and revitalize your strands for a vibrant, healthy shine while you get self pampered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I use any oil for Shero Abhyanga?

It’s best to use Ayurvedic oils that are specifically designed for head massage, such as those containing Bhringraj, Brahmi, Amla, or Bhringaraj oil. These oils are ideal for nourishing the scalp, promoting hair growth, and calming the nervous system.

Q. Can Shero Abhyanga help with hair loss?

Yes! Shero Abhyanga can aid in reducing hair loss by improving blood circulation to the scalp and strengthening hair roots. Regular use of this massage helps stimulate hair follicles and can promote healthier, thicker hair over time.

Q. How often should I perform Shero Abhyanga?

For best results, it is recommended to perform Shero Abhyanga 1-2 times a week. Regular practice can help relieve stress, support hair growth, and promote a healthy, balanced scalp.

Q. Can I use the Kansa Wand with other oils?

Absolutely! The Kansa Wand can be used with any nourishing hair oil or treatment. However, using it with Japa Pushpa Hair Oil enhances the benefits, as the oil is specifically designed to support hair health and scalp nourishment. Also to treat dandruff, kansa wand can be use with Ohria’s Nimb Karanj Thailam.

Q. Can Shero Abhyanga help with migraines or tension headaches?

Yes! Shero Abhyanga is known to relieve tension headaches and migraines. The gentle massage on the head, combined with the stimulation of Marma points, helps relax the nervous system, reduce muscle tension, and improve blood flow, which can alleviate headache symptoms.