Headaches can be caused by poor lighting, certain foods, lack of sleep, stress and poor posture. They can be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Tension headaches are characterized by a dull achy pain, while migraines involve throbbing pain on the sides of the head. In a 2002 study by the Boulder College of Massage Therapy, patients suffering from chronic headaches experienced a significant reduction in the frequency of headaches after just a week of regular massages in the neck and shoulder area. Massages can reduce stress and relieve pain, making them a natural and effective headache remedy.
Step 1
Massage your scalp gently with your fingertips using medium pressure.
Step 2
Move your fingertips to your temples and massage that area, then move on to your neck and shoulders.
Step 3
Continue massaging your scalp, temples, neck and shoulders for 5 to 10 minutes or until you feel relief.
Step 4
Roll out your neck by tilting your head to one side so your ear touches your shoulder. Roll your neck back and around in a full circle.
Tips and Warnings
- If the massage is difficult for you to do yourself, ask someone to help you or see a massage therapist. In addition to massage therapy, you can relieve your headaches with pain medication, rest and regular exercise. You can also avoid caffeine and any foods that trigger your headaches.
- See a doctor if your headaches become more intense or start happening more frequently. This could be the result of a problem such as meningitis, arthritis or dental issues.
