Headache is a common health complaint, from tension headaches to migraines most of us will have suffered from some form at some point.
Is there an alternative to reaching for the painkillers?
Nutrition:
Headaches are often linked to our diet and levels of hydration. Balancing blood sugar levels but eating little and often, as well as staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water can be one way of reducing headaches.
Certain foods contain chemicals which have been found to trigger headaches and migraines in some people. Reducing the intake of foods such as cheese, citrus fruits, red wine, chocolate and coffee may help to have positive effect on headaches.
Aromatherapy:
Lavender and peppermint can be excellent analgesics for general headaches, while sweet orange, pettigrain and neroli are great for easing tension headaches. Combine a couple of drops of these oils into a carrier oil and massage into the temples, forehead and back of the neck when you feel the start of a tension headache.
Reflexology:
By working specific reflexes on the feet or hands the therapist can restore balance in turn hopefully bring relief to the symptoms of headaches.
Stress is a common factor in headaches. Pressure applied to the adrenal reflexes in the feet can help to calm the body and reduce the rush of adrenaline, a common cause of tension and stress headaches.
Indian Head Massage:
This traditional Indian massage concentrates on loosening and stretching the muscles of the head, face, upper back and shoulders. These areas are where tension and stress accumulates, leading to a reduction in blood flow, a build up of waste and toxins in the muscles and headaches. An Indian Head massage targets these areas and can lead to relief.
Your massage therapist may be able to show you some simple self help techniques that you can use at home to help you manage your headaches.
Zap tension with some self massage – Try using small circular movements and rubbing or kneading the back of your neck and the bony ridge at the base of your skull using the flats of your fingers.
by Hannah Rosborough
