I had my first consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor when I lived in LA in the ‘90s. Deepak Chopra’s bestseller “Perfect Health” had popularized the ancient medical tradition, and being a wellness geek, I read the book and then I had to check it out.

One of the core diagnostic tools in Ayurveda (Ayur= life,  Veda = science in Sanskrit) is determining what “type” you are – Pitta, Vatta, or Kapha are the main three. The practitioner takes your pulse, reviews your physiology and examines your tongue in the process. I remember learning that I was a Vata type. I left with some suggestions about lifestyle changes, a tongue cleaner, and some therapeutic oils, but never explored the recommended therapies that are unique to the Aryuvedic healing. Before long, I was off on another adventure and left Ayurveda behind. Or so I thought.

A few months ago while googling alternative health practitioners in Bozeman, I came upon Elaine Doll who was practicing Ayurveda in town. Drawn again to this protocol that treats body, mind and spirit, I decided to see what these somewhat exotic treatments were like.

Ayurveda is based on a 5,000-year-old natural healing system that originated in India; its central tenet is one of creating balance that in turn creates good health. In India today more than 100 colleges give degrees in this science, while in the US it is classified as “complementary medicine” used to alleviate such ailments as digestive problems, headaches, skin disease, and stress.

However it’s classified, Aryuvedic healing techniques include types of bodywork, yoga, dietary supplements and recommended lifestyle changes (i.e., meditation, exercise). But there are also some truly unique modalities in use by Ayurveda practitioners that I’d always wanted to do since my first experience with this centuries-old practice to me, so I gave Elaine Doll a call and set up an appointment.

Doll’s practice, Blissful Ayurveda, is located on north 7th Street, across the street from Applebee’s. She shares an office with some yoga teachers and the vibe is appropriately mellow. Doll and I spent a few minutes talking about Ayurveda and its history as well as her interest in the tradition. A former NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) instructor, Doll loved her time outdoors and teaching but felt “something was missing. “ After taking a break from NOLS she visited Canada and was drawn to an Aryuvedic clinic there and was instantly intrigued. She later commenced study at the California College of Ayurveda. Doll says, “we live in a world of misery and fear; Ayurveda allowed me to find a center in myself and I knew it would do the same for to others.” After her training in California, she spent 6 months living in India and learning about Ayurveda at its source. She says that this holistic method of health care approaches healing through the body, mind and spirit, and helps to create a more balanced lifestyle while strengthening the body’s natural healing abilities. Doll’s been practicing Ayurveda in Bozeman since 2007.

I shared with Doll that I was specifically interested in the Shirodhara treatment; a friend from Colorado swore they’d cured her of insomnia and were the most relaxing alterative treatment she’d ever received. While I have no trouble sleeping, the technique, involving warm oil being slowly poured over your forehead (or third eye), sounded like it might just shut my racing thoughts off, and I wanted to give it a try. Researchers have conduced clinical trials and noted its effects on raising serotonin and decreasing stress. Sounded good to me! Doll explained that the Shirodhara treatment was a keystone of Ayurveda, and that it encouraged alpha brain states and deep relaxation. I was ready for that!

I lay down on her treatment table in a softly lit room with peaceful music playing. Doll placed rose-scented pads on my eyes to keep the oil from running into them, rubbed my feet with some essential oils, chanted in Sanskrit and then started the oil flow. Instantly I felt soothed and relaxed. While I did have a few thoughts about how the heck I’d get the oil out of my hair, they were quickly swept away by the waves of peace and calm that came over me.
It seemed like the treatment went on for hours, but it was about 45 minutes when the oil flow slowed and then stopped. Doll gently massaged my head, and told me I could get up when I was ready. I didn’t feel like I’d ever be ready, I was so chilled out and sleepy.

But I finally emerged into her consultation room, renewed, relaxed and feeling like I’d had a journey to a place that was far, far away. I slept like a baby that night, and have felt much less stressed since.

Doll offers a full suite of Ayurveda treatments in her practice; they can be taken as part of a full healing protocol or separately, in a sort of a la carte fashion. Offerings include Shirodhara, herbalized steam therapy, warm oil massage, nasal therapy and a basic consultation to determine your “type” with recommended treatments and herbs following.
If you’re looking for a unique health care system, or just some amazing stress relief techniques, check out Elaine Doll’s Blissful Ayurveda: 579-3910 or visit the website: blissfulbozeman.com

Shirodhara Treatment/$75
Blissful Ayurveda
1119 N. 7th Bozeman
406-579-3910

This column by Liz Harrison explores the many alternative wellness offerings and practitioners in the Gallatin Valley. Liz Harrison is an alternative health and wellness junkie who lives in Bozeman. Suggestions, raves and rants may be sent to wellnessepicurean@gmail.com.