Migraines are chronic headaches that consist of significant, pulsating and throbbing pain often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines typically last anywhere from four to 72 hours, and while their exact cause is unknown, the Mayo Clinic suggests that they may be caused by changes in brain chemical balance. Migraines are often triggered by hormones, stress and some foods. According to Bastyr Center for Natural Health, exercise can reduce the frequency, duration and intensity of migraines. Be sure to talk to your doctor before using exercise to relieve migraine pain.
Relaxation
Relaxation exercises can help reduce migraines, especially ones triggered by stress. Try a deep breathing exercise by inhaling deeply through your nose. Hold your breath for a couple of seconds, then exhale through your mouth completely, pushing all of the air out of your lungs. Repeat this deep breathing exercise for five minutes. The Mayo Clinic also suggests muscle relaxation exercises to help relieve migraines, such as yoga.
Aerobics
According to the Mayo Clinic, regular aerobic exercise reduces tension in your body and can prevent migraines. Exercise releases endorphins throughout your body that provide calm feelings and can relieve pain. Family Doctor also states that obesity can affect the intensity of migraines, so exercising to control your weight can help. You can try walking, swimming or riding a bicycle for aerobic exercise once a day. Warm up for 10 minutes, progress to 20 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, and then cool down for 10 minutes. Be careful not to perform any sudden or intense exercise, because the University of Maryland Medical Center states that this can actually cause migraines.
Massage
Family Doctor suggests a scalp or temple massage to help handle migraine pain. When you feel a migraine coming on, apply pressure to your scalp in small, circular motions. Work your way over your entire head and then apply the pressure to your temples. Perform a scalp and temple massage whenever you feel migraine pain.
