Doctor, “How is your headache?”
Daughter-in-law replies, “She (sas) is fine!”
Jokes apart, headache is a common problem and everyone one of us has reached for the pills to relieve it ASAP. This is a temporary fix, but if you are looking for a long term solution, you should try pranayama yoga or yogic breathing and forward bending yoga asanas. This combination of yogic breathing and yoga asana helps to relieve tension and benefits the blood circulation in the anterior or head region of the body. This helps to calm the mind and is an effective long term natural solution to the age old, common problem of headaches.
Yoga helps to ease the tension and stress in the body. Stress and tensions are the main reasons that cause headache. Yoga asana and breathing techniques when done together helps us to focus better and concentrate. Mind and body are relaxed and energized.
Some specific yoga poses can help to solve the underlying causes of headaches. Yoga poses boost the blood circulation and oxygenation, this in turn helps to relieve stress and headache and pain. Next time you feel an imminent headache approaching; just try the recommended yoga poses listed below
Note: Always consult your physician and experienced yoga teacher before you begin any yoga practice to reap maximum benefits.
Yogendra Pranayama IV – Breathing becomes long, deep, steady and continuous. The diaphragm is activated and freed. Watch Video for complete details.
Anulom Vilom –Simple pranayama yoga or yogic breathing technique. It has a sedative effect on the tone and rhythm of the heart and on the brain waves. This technique helps to improve oxygen capacity of lungs. Calms the mind and aids in concentration. Helps allay anxiety, anger and irritability. Watch the video for details
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog pose) – Yoga pose for the beginners and one of the most popular yoga poses. Let your head hang bet ween your shoulders and feel the full stretch; keep the inhalation smooth, slow and rhythmic. This asana will relieve fatigue, stiffness and backache you get from sitting all day. Stretching of hamstrings, chest and decompress the spine, leaving you calm and energized.
Hastapadasana –This is a forwarding bending pose touching your hasta(hands) to your feet (pad). Hence, the name- Hastapadasna. This opens up your hamstrings and lower back and blood circulation in improved in the head region.
Shavasana (Corpse pose) -Conscious relaxation from head to the tip of the toes and all body parts internal and external are relaxed. You will feel calm and totally relaxed. (10 minutes every day will keep you in a peaceful mode)