How to treat Headaches and Migraines at home naturally!

 

Ah, headaches and migraines. The ultimate buzzkill for any day. One minute, you’re feeling great, and the next, you’ve got a throbbing pain in your head that just won’t quit. It’s no wonder that so many people suffer from headaches and migraines on a regular basis. But fear not, my fellow headache sufferers! There are natural solutions that can help alleviate the pain and prevent future episodes.

 

Different Types of Headaches

First, let’s start with the basics. There are several different types of headaches, and they each have their own unique set of symptoms. The most common types include tension headaches, cluster headaches, sinus headaches, and migraines.

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are often described as a constant pressure or tightness in the head. They can be caused by stress, lack of sleep, poor posture, or eye strain. Cluster headaches are less common but are known for their intense pain that occurs on one side of the head. These headaches often occur in cycles and can last for several weeks or months at a time. Sinus headaches are caused by inflammation in the sinus cavities and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as congestion and facial pain.

 

And then there are migraines. Migraines are a whole other beast. They are a type of headache that is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and environmental factors such as changes in weather.  Some the more common food triggers include red wine, soft cheeses, MSG, citrus fruits, chocolate and coffee.

 

 

 

What can we do to help alleviate headaches?

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about some drug-free solutions. One of the most effective ways to relieve headaches and migraines is through acupressure. Acupressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and alleviate pain.

 

Acupressure Points

There are several acupressure points that can help relieve headaches and migraines. One of the most effective points is located between the thumb and index finger. To apply pressure to this point, use your opposite thumb and index finger to squeeze the fleshy webbing between the two digits. Apply pressure for a few seconds and then release. Repeat as needed.

Another effective acupressure point for headaches is located at the base of the skull, in the hollow area just behind the ear. To stimulate this point, place your thumbs on the hollows and apply gentle pressure. Hold for a few seconds and then release. Repeat as needed.

 

Acupressure Hat

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive solution, consider investing in an acupressure hat. This hat is designed to stimulate multiple acupressure points on the head, neck, and shoulders, at once, providing all-over relief for headaches and migraines. They work by applying gentle pressure to the points, massively increasing blood flow and promoting rapid relaxation.  The acupressure hat also has acupressure pads for the cheeks to assist with alleviating jaw tension, a another common trigger for headaches.

 

 

Hydration

Another natural solution for headaches and migraines is making sure you’re well hydrated. Dehydration can often trigger headaches, so it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and try to avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can further dehydrate the body.

Stretching 

Stretching is also a great way to alleviate headaches and migraines. When we sit or stand for long periods of time, our muscles can become tense and tight, leading to headaches. Stretching can help relieve that tension and promote relaxation. Focus on stretching the neck, shoulders, and upper back muscles to target the areas that are most commonly affected by headaches.  When these muscles are tight, they reduce the amount of blood flowing up into the head, leading to headaches.

 

Cupping

 

Finally, consider trying cupping therapy. Cupping is an ancient Chinese technique that involves placing glass, plastic or silicone cups on the skin to create suction. This suction promotes blood flow and can help alleviate pain and tension. Cupping can be done by a trained professional or with a Premium Vacuum Cupping set at home. To use the Premium Vacuum Cupping Set, apply restore massage oil to the skin and then apply the appropriate sized cup to the muscle you are wanting to relieve tension in.  Then use the pump handle to extract air from the cup, which applies a suction force to the area under the cup, resulting in the skin and superficial layer of muscle being drawn up into the cup. This increases blood flow to the muscle, as well as breaking the adhesion this muscle has with the underlying muscles, creating relaxation, reducing pain and increasing the blood flow.  Leave the cups on the affected area, such as the neck or shoulders, for ten minutes to promote blood flow and relieve tension.

 

It’s important to note that while natural solutions can be effective for relieving headaches and migraines, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you experience unrelenting, debilitating or unusual headaches, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

 

Any other suggestions for kicking headaches to the curb?

 

In addition to natural remedies, there are also a variety of preventative measures that can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines. These include:

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Eating a healthy diet and avoiding trigger foods
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Avoiding exposure to environmental triggers such as bright lights or loud noises
• Taking breaks throughout the day to stretch and move around, particularly if you work at a desk job

 

In conclusion, headaches and migraines can be a real pain in the neck (and head). But with natural remedies such as acupressure, hydration, stretching, and cupping, as well as preventative measures, you can find relief and reduce the frequency of these pesky headaches. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider if you experience frequent or severe headaches to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Now go forth and conquer your headaches, so that you can live your best life!