Headaches are often a sign of an imbalance in the body. The cause could be digestive, hormonal, stress-related or due to fatigue, muscle tension, toxicity or dehydration.
- Drink 2-3 litres of water daily to avoid dehydration. Lower backache accompanied by an occipital headache may indicate dehydration.
- A stress-band type of headache is usually associated with stress. Massage, meditation, deep breathing or a relaxing bath, will all help.
- A cool facecloth or lavender compress on the forehead can relieve symptomatic pain.
- Keep a food diary to determine whether or not your headaches are food-related. A frontal headache can indicate a digestive reaction.
- Are you constipated? A headache often signals an accumulation of toxicity trapped in the body.
- AVOID coffee, as excessive caffeine is known to cause headaches. Similarly, the withdrawal of caffeine can also trigger headaches.
- Place a drop of lavender essential oil on the temples to help relieve pain.
- Massage can loosen muscular tension, particularly in the upper back, neck, head and shoulders. When these muscles are tight, the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain is restricted. This is a most common cause of headache. Using tiger balm can revive a muzzy head.
- Both breast and bottle feeding places strain on the upper back. Treat yourself to a deep tissue massage or a yoga class.
- Reflexology encourages elimination of toxins and improved circulation.
- Self help acupressure points Liver 2, Gall Bladder 20.
- Get plenty of good quality sleep before midnight.
- Sleep in a well-ventilated room.
- Are you suppressing anger or frustration? It may help to talk about it to relieve the pressure.
- Bach flower Rescue Remedy or Australian Bush Flower Emergency Essence can help ease tension or stress.