Are the holidays giving you a headache? For many people, stressful seasons can trigger headache pain. You don’t have to suffer all season long or rely on over-the-counter medications for relief. Use our tips for ways to relieve your discomfort naturally so you can get back in the holiday spirit.
1. Diet and Hydration
It is no great secret that what we eat and drink plays a pivotal role in our overall health. This same principle applies to headaches as well. If the cause of your headache is dehydration, then simply drinking more water may do the trick. You can also try drinking ginger tea. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, so it is a valuable ally in the fight against headaches.
Some people report that eating spicy foods helps to relieve headache pain. This may be due to the capsaicin in spicy foods. Capsaicin has been proven to help reduce our perception of pain by lowering our sensitivity to elements that allow us to feel pain.
2. Massage
Both traditional massage and pressure point therapy may be beneficial in reducing headache pain. Massage may help to reduce tension in the neck and shoulders, which can lead to headache pain. Seeing a massage therapist, or even having a loved one give you a neck and shoulder rub may help to alleviate the symptoms.
Pressure point therapy is another option. It is convenient, because you can do it yourself. Pressing on the greater occipital nerve, which is located where the back of the skull meets the neck, can help to relieve tension and reduce pain. Likewise, rubbing the webbing in between your thumb and first finger can trigger pressure points that relieve headache pain as well.
3. Stretching and Breathing Exercises
In the case of tension headaches, any activity that helps relieve tension will also help to reduce the symptoms. Stretching tight muscles is an effective way to release tension, while also increasing blood flow to the area.
Stretching is frequently combined with deep breathing exercises for maximum benefit. Focus on taking deep breaths in and then slowly releasing each one as you go through your stretches. When combined, the two strategies are even more effective than either one used alone.
4. Use Ice
If inflammation is the cause of your headache, then applying ice may provide relief. The ice will cool the blood vessels under the surface, and help them contract. Simply apply an ice pack directly to source of the pain. This will reduce inflammation, and help to alleviate the pressure that comes with it.
The next time you get a headache, don’t feel like the only way to get rid of it is to pop a pill. Try our natural remedies first. You may be surprised at how well some of them work. They are also cost-effective, as most of the remedies involve readily accessible items. Get fast, safe, effective relief for your headaches throughout the holidays, and all year long.
