We’ve all woken up with a headache or had days ruined by a headache. Sometimes, especially if we are experiencing a tension headache, painkillers might not work. We need to find a way to relax and ease the tension of the muscles associated with the headache. This is where self-massage comes in!
Tension headaches are some of the most common types of headaches. Do you clench your jaw or grind your teeth? Are you sitting at the desk and staring at a screen all day? These are some of the things that can lead to tension headaches.
How do you recognise a tension headache?
It isn’t simple to diagnose a tension headache. Morever, this is an umbrella term that includes all non-threatening headaches caused by tension in the body. It will certainly feel different from Migraines.
Because of how all muscles and connective tissues are related, tension in one area might refer pain to another. These localised spots of pain are what we massage therapists refer to a trigger points. Trigger points anywhere around the neck, shoulders and face can cause headaches.
Certain factors like stress, anxiety, depression and, of course, injury can aggravate them.
How do i use massage to ease a tension headache?
Self-massage is an easy way to ease a tension headache. It can be as simple as massaging certain points in the jaw, back of the head, neck and shoulders. Self-massage is also a great selfcare tool, great to be used in between professional sessions.
The video below will guide you through a simple routine you can start using today to alleviate your headache.
If you are struggling with headaches and nothing seems to help, please do go to your GP. You can check the NHS website for more information here.
If you would like to book a consultation with me, please check this page. I offer both online and in person consultation (if you are local to Worthing, UK) for massage and yoga.
