3 things to try if you have a headache that just won’t go away

Our bodies are so wise. Gentle touch and intention can go a long way!

If you know me, you know that I used to be the queen of tension headaches. I’d almost constantly have a dull ache at the base of my skull because I hold a lot of stress in my shoulders and neck. My posture could also be better ... I’m working on that. 

I do still get headaches occasionally, but now I have a lot more tools in my belt to help alleviate the pain. 

Here are 3 things I do when I feel a headache coming on: 

1. Gentle neck rub

With relaxed fingers, start up behind your ear and gently drag your fingers just underneath your jawline. Continue this motion down your neck and across your shoulder. 

Doing this helps signal the brain that you are ready to release tension in this area. Make sure to take deep breaths, and you can even do a couple of neck stretches if you’re feeling adventurous. Do this on both sides. 

2. Hand pressure point 

The webbing between your thumb and forefinger on both hands holds a pressure point that can be used to relieve tension in the neck and shoulders (see image).  

I won’t lie, this one HURTS, but it’s effective. 

Take the thumb and forefinger of your opposite hand and try to rub out any tension in the area with a good amount of pressure. Do this on both sides. 

3. Neck muscle reflex on the feet 

On the map of the feet, your big toe represents your head. There is a reflex point on the big toe that helps me when my head hurts. 

Starting with your thumb at the base of your big toe (red dot), gently push your thumb around the top of your toe (purple squiggles). Continue this motion until you’ve covered the whole top. Then bring your thumb back down to the base of the toe, then move your thumb in a rocking motion along the base of your toe (blue zigzag). Do this on both sides. 

If my headache has already progressed to the point where I can’t think straight, I go for some Ibuprofen first and then I do these three things. 

Our bodies are so wise. Gentle touch and intention can go a long way! Try these out and let me know what other pain points you want help with<3