There are many reasons why a person can suffer from migraine. And stress, of course, makes to the top of the list. It is often believed that stress means mental stress and one should relax the mind and sleep well for the migraine to be alleviated.
A recent research, however, showed that a person’s posture makes a big difference and can be a big factor in causing migraine attacks.
Human beings are the only race that constantly need to keep the head upright, thus putting continuous strain on the neck and shoulders.
A person who slouches is constantly putting strain on the trapezes muscles causing the muscles to tighten up and restrict the blood supply up to the head and neck. One of the remedies that immediately help migraine sufferers are correction and awareness of one’s posture.
There are many postures in yoga that constantly work on reducing the strain on the muscles ensuring a good flow of blood to the head thus preventing migraine attacks.
Note: Though these postures are easy to do and can be practised at home as with all other exercises, it’s, however, advisable to consult a doctor before starting them.
NAMAN PRANAMASANA
Procedure:
1. Begin by sitting in varjasana and placing your forehead on the mat with your hands by your side.
2. Slowly as you get onto your knees, support your head with your hands and place the crown of your head on the mat.
3. Stabilise here before stretching your hands backwards and placing it by your knees.
4. Hold this pose 10-30 seconds and breathe normally.
5. Note that if your neck and head are still weak ensure that the hands are placed by them as support till the neck strengthens.
Benefits:
1. It allows the brain to gradually adapt the extra pressure in the head when the body is inverted, alleviating the headache
2. Relieves anxiety and other psychological and nervous disorders
3. Improves the sense of balance
4. Strengthens the neck muscles
Caution: Those with high blood pressure or severe back problems should avoid this yoga posture. Also this posture is not to be practised when you have a headache. It can be done when the migraine has passed.
