How to manage migraine with yoga...
What is Migraine?
Migraines are a particularly severe form of persistent headache. Pain is experienced on one side in particular which builds up to unbearable intensity. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and the need to sleep. Some sufferers have regular attacks of migraine, some experience vision and other sensory disturbances. Migraines can be triggered by many factors, some of which are sensitivity to particular food and drink, over fatigue, over excitement, pressure at work, emotional stress. Children as young as three can have migraines, more women than men have migraines and migraines can run in families. Unfortunately, it is a fairly common form of illness, though the frequency and severity varies with the individual. Research is ongoing to understand the causes and cures for migraine.
How can Yoga help manage migraine?
Yoga is a philosophy that looks inwards and helps us understand, nurture and develop the whole person. Its wisdom is as relevant today in understanding the human condition as it was over five thousand years ago.
- Yoga can be practiced by anyone regardless of age or fitness levels because there are so many practices to choose from or adapt to suit the individual.
- Yoga self awareness practices help us to identify our “trigger” habits to enable us to disarm them.
- Stress triggers headaches. Stress may be unavoidable but how it is managed may defuse the trigger – yoga stretches, breath work, meditation and relaxation all help us to manage stress.
- Yoga breathing practices may help sufferers manage, relieve and reduce pain.
- Poor posture produces chronic muscular tension, particularly in the upper back, shoulders and neck. Chronic neck tension often causes headaches. Regular practice of yoga relieves neck tension. An experienced yoga teacher will show you how to adjust and realign your posture to avoid neck tension.
- Yoga practices teach us to live in the present moment, an ability that promotes healing at all levels or our being
Find an experienced yoga teacher or therapist who is familiar with your condition.
For details of qualified yoga teachers near you, click here.