Shirodhara and Indian Head Massage Training
Learn to soothe stress, relieve tension and balance overactive minds
Are you passionate about wellness, Ayurveda, and holistic healing? Learn the ancient art of Shirodhara and discover how to harness its profound benefits for the mind and body. This traditional Ayurvedic technique, known for its ability to promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and restore balance, is a powerful tool for any wellness practitioner.
Why Learn Shirodhara?
Master a Time-Honoured Technique: Shirodhara is an integral part of Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, known for its ability to calm the nervous system and improve mental clarity.
Enhance Your Skillset: Whether you are an existing wellness practitioner or a newcomer to Ayurvedic healing, Shirodhara offers a unique, in-demand skill that can transform your practice and attract clients seeking deep relaxation and stress relief.
Deepen Your Understanding of Ayurveda: Gain hands-on experience and knowledge about the benefits of Ayurvedic oils, essential pressure points, and how to work with the mind-body connection to create therapeutic treatments.
Increased Client Wellbeing: Learn how to integrate Shirodhara into your existing services to provide comprehensive healing, enhance your clients’ physical and mental wellbeing, and build long-lasting therapeutic relationships.
What You Will Learn
All Nalu Massage Trainings are designed for beginners, but make provisions for experienced practitioners. With a focus on practical, hands-on experience, we will help you gain the skills and confidence to integrate this therapeutic technique into your wellness offerings. Our seasoned instructors will provide you with personalised guidance to ensure you can perform the treatment with precision and care, while understanding its profound effects on your clients.
The principles and philosophy behind Shirodhara in Ayurveda
Techniques to administer Shirodhara treatments safely and effectively
The benefits of various oils and their impact on the nervous system
How to create a tranquil, meditative space for the perfect Shirodhara experience
Methods to incorporate Shirodhara into detox programs, stress-relief therapies, and self-care routines
Empower yourself with the knowledge & techniques to create lasting, positive change in your clients' lives
Prerequisites & Accreditation
In order to receive certification for this course, you have to hold one of the following qualifications:
Certified Yoga Teacher (min. level RYT-200),
Ayurvedic Studies (min 300 hour training),
or Massage Therapy (min 16 hours of training)
If you are unsure whether your qualifications are suitable, please contact us in advance to clarify.
This course is accredited with the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Course schedule
(All timings are approximated and subject to change if required.)
Day 1 (Friday, please note we are on NSW time)
9am onwards: Arrive, Check-in at reception and settle in
12:30pm: Lunch at the Krishna Village Community Kitchen
1:30pm: Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda
2:30pm: Basic Principles of Ayurveda Therapies (Core concepts, Integrating Ayurveda with Shirodhara, the role of Doshas in therapy)
3pm: Short Break: High-Protein Snack and Hydrate
3:15pm: Anatomy and Physiology (Relevant anatomy & Physiological effects for Shirodhara, Understanding Marma points)
4:45pm: Q&A and Wrap-Up for Day 1
6pm: Dinner served at the main dining area
9pm: Quiet Time: Relax and Retire
Day 2 (Saturday)
6:30am - Sunrise Yoga (optional, at the main yoga hall)
8am: Healthy Breakfast served in the training room
9am: Indications, Contraindications, and Precautions (When to use Shirodhara, Conditions to avoid, Safety precautions)
10:30am: Morning Tea
10:45am: Practical Demonstrations to incorporate Head Massage (Overview of demonstration techniques, Step-by-step guide to Shirodhara, Troubleshooting common issues)
12:15pm: Lunch Break
1:30pm: Setting Up the Shirodhara Equipment (Equipment list & setup instructions, Ensuring a comfortable treatment environment)
2:30pm: Types of Shirodhara (Overview, Indications for each type, When and how to use different types)
4pm: Afternoon Tea
4:15pm: Preparation of Liquids for Shirodhara (Common liquids used, How to prepare therapeutic liquids, Choosing the right liquid for each client)
5:30pm: Q&A and Wrap-Up for Day 2
6pm: Dinner served at the main dining area
9pm: Quiet Time: Relax and Retire
Day 3 (Sunday)
6:30am - Sunrise Yoga (optional, at the main yoga hall)
8am: Healthy Breakfast served in the training room
9am: Marma Point Application for the Head and Face (Introduction to Marma points, Techniques for applying Marma points, Enhancing Shirodhara with Marma therapy)
10:30am: Morning Tea
10:45am: Performing Shirodhara Techniques Quietly and Comfortably (Technique overview, Creating a relaxing atmosphere, Ensuring client comfort)
12:15pm: Lunch Break
1:30pm: Customising Shirodhara Treatments (Assessing individual needs, Adjusting techniques based on client condition, Case studies and examples)
2:30pm: Practical Experience: Giving and Receiving Treatments (Pair work guidelines, Supervised practice sessions, Feedback)
4pm: Conclusion and Next Steps (Recap of key learning points, Continuing education and practice, Resources for further learning)
4:30pm: Certification Ceremony and Closing Remarks
Meet your trainer, Debbie McRobie
Debbie's journey of healing and transformation began at an early age. While others pursued sports and dance, she immersed herself in understanding the healing properties of plants and the land, guided by the love and wisdom of her father, nana, sister, and two brothers.
Her fascination with massage began in 1988. She was captivated by its remarkable ability to alleviate stress and pain, enhance muscle relaxation, and improve circulation and lymphatic flow - a cornerstone of holistic health.
In 1991, Debbie decided to transition from a career in hospitality to training adults, helping them build confidence and skills for better employment opportunities. This experience was pivotal, igniting her passion for teaching and empowering others.
Although her time in the corporate sector was extensive, it never quite felt like home. Her true calling emerged when she pursued a Dual Master Qualification in Aromatherapy and Natural Therapy, which eventually led her to Nalu Massage Training. Under the mentorship of Jen Barnett, the founder of Nalu, she discovered the profound practice of Lomi Lomi. The spirit of Aloha reinvigorated Debbie's path, and now, as the custodian of Nalu Massage Training, Debbie is dedicated to sharing her transformative knowledge and skills with others. Her journey continues, and she is honoured to guide others on their own paths to healing and growth through living life full of Aloha.
Cost & payment
The investment for your life changing, fully accredited massage course is $795 + Accomodation (includes 3x vegetarian meals each day).
Early Bird Rate: Get $100 off the above course fee if you book 4+ weeks in advance!
Your booking includes Friday and Saturday night accommodation. The course officially begins at 1:30pm on Friday and finishes around 5pm on Sunday afternoon.
Available course dates
Before you book, please read our terms and conditions including our refund policy. Payment has to be received in full upon booking.
Accommodation
Krishna Village is located on a beautiful organic farm in the scenic foothills of Mt. Warning, half way between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. The closest town is Murwillumbah, and the nearest airport Coolangatta (the Gold Coast airport).
Our Retreat Center is spread out across a beautiful natural farm setting, which means that some of our facilities and accommodation require a bit of walking. We offer a range of accommodation options from camping spots to creatively renovated container rooms, private pine cabins set in the hills overlooking the valley and more.
Delicious Vegetarian Food
At Krishna Village, we offer 3x delicious vegetarian meals per day. From vegan kitchari, porridge, and fresh fruits for breakfast, to vegetable curry with rice or flatbreads, and heartier dishes for lunch & dinner... If you're looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, you'll be sure to enjoy our meals.
If you have any specific dietary needs, you are welcome to use the Krishna Village kitchen to prepare your meals.
The Krishna Farm
The Krishna Farm, "New Govardhana" serves as an ashram to a community of yogis who aspire to live according to their deepest vows and commitments on their path of service, spiritual contentment and happiness (Bhakti Yoga). Their service and dedication make this location a beautiful place of growth, healing and spiritual awakening. The temple is the beating heart of the community at New Govardhana and we encourage all who visit the property to come along and experience the lifestyle and philosophy reflected by the practice of Krishna consciousness.
Testimonials
''From the moment I meet Debbie I knew I would walk away with something truly incredible and unique to offer to others in my community. Deb made the experience spectacular, I felt at home, while receiving the most professional and inspiring training I have ever experienced. As a massage therapist of 19 years I have done many training courses and I have never felt more confident, comfortable and motivated as I have with Nalu Academy. The way the training is structured is very different from what I have experienced in the past and it is absolutely amazing. You feel more connected and relaxed with your surroundings and work you are doing. You do not feel as though you are being assessed, you just feel whole.
If others ask where should they train, Deb and Nalu would be the first place I direct them to. I am so thankful to now be a part of this amazing community and family and I cannot wait to continue my journey with Nalu.''
- Renae
''Highly recommend working with Nalu Massage Training- for massage and for ongoing mentoring. (...) Nalu Massage Training enhanced my confidence, techniques and opened up a new world of treatments that are great for my clients and my own body! Since her training I have felt a significant change in my energy levels after giving treatments, my clients notice a longer lasting effect and my wrist no longer have pain. The Lava Shell Massage training was a real game changer, thank you.''
- Felicity R.
''Wow what an experience!!!!!!!! Nalu training was a weekend to remember for the rest of my life. Not only was it education with skills I can bring into my everyday life, it was a much deeper spiritual experience and healing. I met friends for life that follow in the same path! Great food and serene location!!! It was heart opening beautiful training with some added time out to recharge the batteries."
- Michael
"Debbie's teaching style is both nurturing and deeply insightful. She brings a wealth of knowledge across multiple modalities, allowing students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their training. Her approach not only emphasises technique but also fosters a holistic appreciation of the healing arts. This depth of knowledge empowers students to confidently apply their skills in real-world settings.
Beyond her technical expertise, Debbie serves as a mentor, offering guidance and support that extend well beyond the classroom. Her genuine care for her students creates a positive learning environment that encourages growth and community-building."
- Brett P.