9 relaxation techniques to alleviate headaches

9 relaxation techniques to alleviate headaches

Most individuals experience headaches at some point in their lives. The condition can result in a pain that could be dull, sharp, constant, or throbbing. Also, there are different types of headaches that have multiple symptoms. While a permanent cure for headaches is yet to be determined, there are ways to help manage the condition. One can also combine these relaxation techniques with treatments to relieve headaches. Given below are a few that might help:

Indulge in yoga
Yoga is an ancient technique that combines calming meditation and breathing with body poses. Together, these aspects help individuals stretch and strengthen their tendons and muscles. Yoga can also reduce the frequency and pain of certain headaches. However, we recommend working with a professional yoga instructor to avoid unwanted muscle strains.

Use a cold pack
People suffering from migraines should apply a cold pack to their forehead. They can wrap a bag of frozen vegetables or ice cubes in a towel or have a cold shower to ease pains caused by migraines. They should keep the compress on their head for about 15 minutes, followed by an interval of 15 minutes before re-applying the pack.

Be open to biofeedback
The biofeedback technique utilizes electronic devices to measure an individual’s heart rate, breathing rate, skin perspiration, muscle tension, and other physical responses. The device converts this information to graphs that indicate when the individual is tensed or relaxed. With the data, one can learn to control the body’s response, reduce tension, and help curb migraines.

Reduce scalp pressure
Sometimes excessive pressure on the scalp can trigger a headache. The pressure might stem from ponytails, headbands, swimming goggles, or hats. So the individual must avoid steering clear of such factors to ease the pain in their head.

Self-massage
Massages are said to cut down headaches significantly that are triggered by tension. One can try massaging their neck, temples, and forehead to relieve such headaches. Applying gentle, rotating pressure to the affected regions may also help reduce tension headaches.

Meditate
Meditation is a common approach to dealing with several health complications, including headaches. The relaxation technique helps the individual stop the flow of thoughts in their mind and focus on a single factor (their breathing). When meditation is practiced regularly, the individual may notice a reduction in pains, including those caused by migraines.

Listen to calming music
When an individual combines relaxation exercises with their favorite music, they may find it helpful in easing headaches. And for better results, the individual could try listening to only calming music. There are also relaxation audio tapes that are a combination of music and relaxation instructions, specifically designed to ease headaches.

Practice mental imagery relaxation
People who practice mental imagery relaxation (guided imagery) have shown signs of synchronization between their mind and body. The technique requires the patient to create images in their mind that depict peace and a sense of calm. By learning this technique, an individual may have better control over headache pains.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
A CBT method is a psychotherapy approach that is focused on helping the person change their thought patterns and behaviors. This therapy encourages a person to transform their negative thoughts into positive ones. In addition, doing so can help curb the symptoms of headaches.

Popular Articles

01

How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

Heartburn is an unpleasant, burning sensation in the chest that is more common than a lot of individuals realize. Pregnant women, older men, and even young adults experience it frequently. Despite it being such a prevalent experience, not many know that heartburn has actually nothing to do with the heart and everything to do with the stomach and the esophagus. Unsurprisingly enough, heartburn is also used interchangeably with GERD. But, before we get to deciphering heartburn and GERD, let’s understand what acid reflux is. What is acid reflux or GER? Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter or LES becomes weak, allowing the contents of the stomach to travel in the wrong direction, back up the esophagus. Acid reflux is also called GER or gastroesophageal reflux as it involves the stomach and esophagus. This condition can usually be resolved with over-the-counter medication. What is heartburn? Heartburn is a burning or painful sensation that is experienced in the chest. Since the lining of the esophagus is not as strong as the lining of the stomach, the acid from the stomach can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This pain or burning sensation that is heartburn can often be misconstrued for a heart attack.
Read More
02

5 common joint conditions and how to treat them

A joint or articulation is made from two bones that aid the body in movement. There are many forms of joint conditions, which, in many cases, arise from the wear and tear of bones. Arthritis is one of the major and most common health conditions in the country, and its intensity increases with age. Here are some common types of joint conditions that you need to know: Osteoarthritis With almost 10 percent of men and 13 percent of women aged over 60 suffering from osteoarthritis, it is one of the most prevalent joint conditions in the country. Osteoarthritis occurs due to the wear and tear of the cartilages that protect the ends of bones. It commonly affects joints of the spine, hands, hips, and knees. If left untreated, this wear and tear of the cartilage soon leads to bone degeneration, thereby affecting flexibility and range of movement. Treatment for osteoarthritis depends on its severity and the patient’s age. Mild symptoms can be treated through medications, physiotherapy, and changes in lifestyle, whereas moderate to severe cases may require surgical intervention. Spondyloarthritis Spondyloarthritis, also referred to as spondyloarthropathy, is a type of rheumatic disease that causes inflammation in various joints. There are two types of spondyloarthritis—axial spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation of the joints in the chest, spine, and hip bone, and peripheral spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation in the fingers, knees, and toes.
Read More
03

Tips to help you strengthen your immune system

Natural selection has transformed the way in which the human immune system works. While some human genes have evolved to become immune to certain diseases, others have not. This leaves a whole lot of people prone to certain diseases and disorders. That said, there are ways to boost the immune system, improve one’s diet, and lead a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few simple steps that you can take to strengthen the immune system: Ensure adequate sleep There are quite a few studies that prove the relationship between adequate sleep and the strength of the immune system. As an adult, you should ensure that you get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. A teenager should get eight to ten hours of sleep, whereas a young child should get at least 14 hours of sleep on a daily basis. If you have disturbed or no sleep, then you can improve your sleep cycle with these quick tips: Try sleeping in a room that is completely dark Get to bed at the same time every night. This will help regulate your sleep pattern Avoid using electronics that emit blue light before bed Maintain a diet of fruits and vegetables Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain essential minerals, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Read More