Yoga Postures For Migraines

Migraines are severe headaches often accompanied by throbbing pain on only one side of your head, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea or vomiting. The National Headache Foundation lists yoga as a potential alternative therapy to prevent migraines because of the relaxation it creates and for its connection between the mind and body. The Foundation also lists deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and exercise as activities that can prevent migraines. If you develop a migraine, certain yoga postures can also help relieve symptoms.

Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose

To perform the legs-up-the-wall pose, lay a bolster pillow or folded blankets about six inches from the wall. Sit on the bolster with your side to the wall. Slowly turn to face the wall while swinging your legs straight up against the wall. Lay your torso down over the bolster, rest your arms to the sides and let yourself completely relax. Stay in this pose for at least five minutes.

Supported Cobbler's Pose

To go into supported cobbler's pose, put a bolster or folded blanket on the ground, with another one at the end of it that will act as a pillow for your head. Sit on the floor next to the bolster and bring the soles of your feet together. Put blocks or pillows under the sides of your knees to support your legs. Lie down onto the bolster with your head on the pillow and relax in this position, completely letting go of tension, for at least five minutes.

Corpse Pose

Corpse pose is one of the most relaxing and restorative poses you can perform. Simply lie down on your back with your legs and arms down and relaxed. To be the most relaxed, perform progressive relaxation in this pose, by imagining the tension leave each part of your body in progression, beginning at your feet and moving up to your head. Once every part of your body is relaxed, try to let the thoughts leave your mind and lay in complete silence and relaxation for at least five minutes.

Easy Posture

To focus on your breathing, go into a seated posture. Sit in easy posture, which is simply sitting on the floor with your legs comfortably crossed and your back straight. Maintain correct posture, close your eyes and put your hands on your knees. Use this pose to relax and perform breath awareness. Slowly inhale, exhale and pause after every exhalation. Don't hold your breath, but simply pause for a second before breathing in again. This exercise can help you relax and gain more control over your body.