Headaches are quite common occurrence in today’s fast paced life. But headache which involves throbbing pain in the head and surrounding areas like forehead, neck and shoulder can be very annoying and disturbing depending on its degree of severity. Most of us pop a pill to get relief from pain but taking too many pain killers is not good for your health. Massage therapy can bring relief from headache by relaxing the tense and constricted muscles, increasing oxygen and improving circulation. Massage helps to reduce the pressure from the nerves and blood vessels and relax the muscles and by improving circulation bring relief from headache. Here are some basic massage techniques that may help you to get relief from headache instantly.
Neck Massage
Headaches caused by common cold, anxiety and stress or menstruation are usually caused by a stiffness and tightness in the neck muscles that restrict the blood flow. For relaxing these tight muscles, you have to stimulate the pressure point by massaging them correctly. Gently massage the back of your neck, just beneath the skull, using both the hands. You will able to find focal point which is causing pain. Massage this area for 10 minutes to relieve the tensed muscle and bring relief from headache.
Alternatively, let your head drop down till your chin touches the chest. Now place your palms on the back of your head and push your head gently to stretch your neck. Continue doing this for 5 minutes, holding for few seconds each time. This technique will bring relief from headache by relaxing and loosening the muscles that are knotted and hard.
Scalp Massage
Using your thumbs and fingers, massage the scalp gently in circular motion. This will enhance blood circulation in the brain and bring relief from headache. Or use your thumbs to push the scalp firmly by rotating them in circular motion to find relief.
Eye Massage
Close your eyes and do a mild massage around and over the eyes and under the eyebrows gently using your pointer finger and thumb. This technique often brings relief instantly.
Nose Massage
Place your thumbs on both side of the nose where it joins the forehead. Squeeze your nose applying firm pressure with the thumbs from both sides. After holding few second, release the pressure. Repeat the process 3-4 times.
Forehead Massage
Using your finger on both sides of your forehead, massage your forehead towards the nose while putting little bit of pressure. Hold each time for few seconds while putting pressure. Repeat 5-10 times to find relief.
Keep your body well hydrated after massage. Water will help to flush out the toxins released by the massage from your body.