When the head hurts, hands automatically reach for the painkillers. But do not take pills once again. In the last post, I listed healthy foods and herbs that can help manage or prevent headaches. And now I’ll tell you about the habits that will help in this.
Head massage
Massage improves blood circulation. If one or both sides of the head is covered with throbbing pain, massage the skin with light pressure, or even better ask someone about it: someone else’s hands will make the massage more even. If you are suffering from tension headaches, focus on a point at the base of the skull, near the hairline. The massage should cover the contours of the face, the back of the neck and the base of the skull. Drink water before and after the procedure: this makes it easier for the body to flush out the toxins after the massage.
Aromatherapy
The most potent essential oils are those containing mint, lavender and basil. Peppermint oil helps regulate blood flow in the vessels, relieving tension headaches. It also clears the sinuses, and sinus headaches in this area are the result of sinus congestion causing pressure in the head. Lavender oil helps with migraines. The powerful aroma of basil oil will relax the muscles, so it is effective for relieving tension headaches.
You can put a few drops of oil in boiling water for aromatic steam, or rub the oil directly into your scalp and whiskey (if you have sensitive skin, mix it with olive oil).
Tea drinking
Green tea, chamomile, ginger, cinnamon tea – they all have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, relieving pain. And the aroma of tea will help you relax.
Holidays
In most cases, the headache is caused by overwork. Continuing to work only makes your condition worse. Find a quiet place where you can take a nap or relax to calm your mind and muscles. And approach the question fundamentally: get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep can be supplemented with a short day’s rest, but it cannot be replaced by it.
Cayenne pepper
Capsaicin, found in hot chilli peppers, inhibits substance P, which is responsible for the transmission of pain signals to the central nervous system. Stir a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper in 100 ml of warm water. Soak cotton swabs with this solution, insert into each nostril, and hold until you feel warm. It may be a little annoying at first, but the burning sensation is a sign that the pepper is working. The headache will go away with the burning sensation or even earlier.
Apple cider vinegar compresses
Steaming with apple cider vinegar is helpful for throbbing headaches. Pour a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar into a large bowl, then fill the container with three cups of boiling water. Lean over the bowl, cover your head with a towel to cover the bowl and trap the steam, and breathe deeply for five to ten minutes. Be careful not to burn yourself with the steam. When done, dry your face with a towel and drink a glass of cold water.
Movement, stretching, posture
Headaches are often caused by muscle tension in the upper back, neck and shoulders. Practice yoga to relax your muscles. Watch your posture: straighten, straighten your shoulders, stretch your neck. Move more to relieve muscle tension. In addition, exercise promotes the production of endorphins that dull headaches. It is better to train outdoors and regularly, without waiting for the headache to appear.
Deep Breathing
If you have a headache, chances are you are not getting enough oxygen. When we experience pain or stress, we begin to breathe shallowly. Take a full breath that starts at the diaphragm and fills the lungs. This will help you relax.
Meditation
Meditation can help you cope with stress and get your breathing back. Close your eyes and imagine the pain flowing freely out of the body. Choose from these simple meditation methods that work for you, or watch the beginner’s video.
Hot or cold compresses
Headaches of different origins can be treated with either hot or cold compresses. To understand what is right for you, you can only empirically. Lie down in a quiet place, dim the lights. Place a cold or hot compress on your forehead and relax. Hold the compress until the pain subsides. Drink fresh water at the same time.
Tip: find out about the content of vitamin B3 in your body. Also known as niacin, it can cause vascular headaches. Niacin stretches – “opens” – the bodies of blood vessels, even small capillaries, which increases blood flow. This can lead to headaches caused by increased blood flow and pressure on the nerves. Check with your doctor to see if you have elevated levels of this vitamin.