Swimming is a low-impact sport that puts no pressure on your body and is one of the healthiest forms of exercise around. Its benefits can improve life for people of all ages and it provides a way to exercise when injured bones or muscles can’t be exercised any other way. Swimming is also one of the types of exercise that produces endorphins. Endorphins are molecules generated by the body and are considered nature’s painkillers. If you have bodily aches and pains, and even headaches, try swimming to relieve your symptoms.
Step 1
Wear headgear that is not too tight; loosen swimming goggles or find a swim cap that fits perfectly. Compressing the head while swimming may cause headache pain to develop. Additionally, use goggles with softer rubber or change the placement of the goggles near the seal around the eyes to relieve pressure trauma.
Step 2
Relieve stress-related headaches by swimming in non-chlorinated water. Ocean or lake water -- without any chemicals -- is best for swimming if you have a headache.
Step 3
Stop an exercise-induced headache by avoiding high-impact sports like tennis. Try a relaxing swim instead to provide lower-impact exercise. Swim to build up your body and prepare it for a more brisk workout.
Step 4
Start your swim program slowly, as strenuous exercise can trigger headaches. MayoClinic.com advises regular exercise such as swimming that will release the natural pain inhibitors in your body and ease the pain of tension headaches.
References
- Swimming Benefits: Swimming Benefits Your Body, Mind and Spirit; August 2009
- Road to Health: What Are Endorphins?
- Baylor University Medical Center; Swimmer’s Headache; Dr. John C. O’Brien Jr.; October 2004
- CureZone.com: Headaches
- Depression Guide: Exercise and Headache
- MayoClinic.com: Tension Headache
- National Headache Foundation: Tools for Sufferers
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