A migraine can be one of the most painful and debilitating disorders.
A mirgraine is more than just a headache. It usually brings with it many dreadful symptoms including, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
You can distinguish a migraine from a regular headache if the pain is on one side of the head, pulses or throbs, or is aggravated by routine physical activity.
Most people who suffer migraines can tell the warning signs: seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, a blind spot, or tunnel vision.
Reflexology and Aromatherapy can help relieve stress and calm the body before and during a migraine. They are also valuable tools for pain-relief. Most importantly, receiving reflexology regularly, along with aromatherapy, can even help prevent future migraine attacks.
~Reflexology Points~
Head/Brain
*To reduce anxiety, decrease pain, and regulate the production of serotonin.
Pituitary Gland
*To balance out the body’s chemicals, some of which can cause migraines when they are either high or low.
Eye
*To reduce eye pain.
Spine
*To reduce body tension.
Solar Plexus
*To give emotional calmness.
Stomache
*To reduce nausea.
*Using your thumb or index finger – firmly, yet gently press and release on these reflex points.
*Work each point for approximately 1 minute. Reflexology is cumulative; therefore, you may need several applications every few hours to achieve solid results.
Note: you may experience a “tenderness” on these points (perfectly natural). This is due to the body’s natural healing energy, moving in to do it’s work!
*Please refer to the Foot Map Page to familiarize yourself with the location of these reflex points.
~Aromatherapy~
Lavender
Roman Chamomile
Peppermint
Rosemary
*Each of these pure essential oils are noted to greatly assist with the stress and pain associated with migraines.
Cold Compress
*Fill a medium size basin with cold water (you can also add a few ice cubes).
*Add 4 drops of the pure essential oil of your choice (stir to evenly distribute).
Note: if using peppermint – add only 2 drops.
*Place 2 small hand towels in the basin and allow for complete absorption.
*After throughly wringing, place a towel on either your forehead or along the back of your neck (you can alternate the two).
*Close you eyes and breathe in the aroma.
*Reapply as needed.
Caution Care
*Use only pure essential oils.
*External use only.
*Do not use any essential oil directly on the skin.
*Avoid contact with eyes.
*Peppermint is very concentrated – use sparingly.
To find a professional practitioner near you, please check out the links on the sidebar of this blog.
When used with care and respect, Reflexology and Aromatherapy are a natural and effective means, that can greatly assist with migraines. They support the body’s ability to help itself…help you.
So the next time a migraine creeps up on you…look to your feet and nose.
Wishing you a “migraine-free” life!
Be well
Portions of this post gratefully supplied by: “Hands On Feet” – Michelle Kluck
For pure essential oils and supplies: Hands-On Aromatherapy
Please visit: Alternative Measures for Migraine Treatment
Photo: r.ing
Foot Notes 