Holistic Ways to Handle Migraines — Chuck Schmalzried| Holistic Treatments
A migraine refers to excruciating head pain that varies in intensity. It’s commonly linked with sound and light sensitivity and nausea, lasting anywhere between four hours and a few days. The main causes of these are genes, as the symptoms run down through families and chronic stress. Therefore, it is important to handle them holistically to relieve the pain and prevent a re-occurrence. Some of these holistic methods include using therapy such as progressive muscle relaxation and acupuncture, using essential oils, doing yoga, and hydrating.
Therapy
Since holistic treatment methods work under the principle that all body parts are interconnected, therapy is an effective way to address migraines. This treatment type mainly involves stimulating other body parts to promote proper blood flow and induce relaxation, thus eliminating the throbbing head pain. The most common forms of therapy used in migraine treatment include acupuncture and progressive muscle relaxation.
Acupuncture is an ancient treatment method originating from ancient China. It entails using sharp needles lodged in specific body parts to stimulate proper blood flow. In a way, acupuncture effectively treats many diseases such as migraines because it minimizes pain and promotes good blood flow.
On the other hand, progressive muscle relaxation utilizes modern methods of body massage aimed at easing muscle tension. It is an effective method of lowering stress levels in individuals, thus alleviating stress-induced migraine.
Using Essential Oils
Some essential oils such as feverfew, lavender, butterbur, and peppermint are great in easing the pain and discomfort that comes with a migraine. Inhaling or applying tiny amounts of such oils goes a long way in calming the aura, alleviating nausea or pain resulting from the disease. This form of holistic treatment is known as prophylactic therapy, and it is effective in reducing the effects of other stress-related conditions.
Doing Yoga
Some studies suggest that since yoga mainly incorporates body postures, meditation, and focused breathing, it is an effective way of handling migraine. The exercise helps reduce the duration, pain, intensity, and frequency associated with migraine. Besides, yoga alleviates chronic stress and anxiety, making it an effective treatment for stress-induced migraines.
Generally, holistic treatment methods for migraines aim at addressing the root cause of the disease rather than treating the pain. However, they are great for preventing future re-occurrence and eliminating stress and tension that cause migraines.
Originally published at https://chuckschmalzried.org on August 15, 2024.