YOGA FOR RELIEF FROM MIGRAINE Migraine is a neurological disorder which can cause intense throbbing or a pulsing sensation in one area of the head and is commonly accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can cause significant pain and last anywhere between 4 to 72 hours. The cause for migraine is not known but they have identified trigger factors which include lifestyle and hormonal changes. Yoga - an adjuvant therapy Stress, irregular sleep cycles and digital eye strain are common triggers of migraine. For migraine treatment, regular exercise is frequently recommended along with conventional care. It is interesting to note that some migraine patients complain when asked to exercise as aerobic exercise is a trigger factor (reason is unknown) and hence they tend to avoid exercise. However slower movements or even static postures in yoga done with mindfulness followed by relaxation techniques have proven to be more beneficial than pure aerobic exercise.
Research has shown that yoga can be used as adjuvant therapy for migraine. Yoga shows beneficiary effect on individuals with migraine by reducing frequency and intensity of attacks and medication score in chronic tension type headache and migraine. This is achieved through regular practice which helps in balancing the autonomic nervous system through enhanced activation of the parasympathetic drive (rest and digest response). Hormonal balance is restored as stress hormones such as cortisol decrease and there is an increase in endorphins. The individual can sleep better with decreased levels of anxiety and tension thus further reducing the chances of migraine attacks. Sleep is also a pain relieving factor during an attack. Tips and techniques
Identify the triggers. Do not skip meals. Get sufficient amount of sleep every night. Practice yoga regularly. Include the specific postures listed in practice of the week.