The Best Yoga Poses for Headache and Migraine

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The Best Yoga Poses for Headache and Migraine

By Rishikul Yogshala

July 15, 2024


Yoga Poses to Relieve Headaches and Migraines

Experiencing chronic headaches and debilitating migraines can be incredibly challenging. Those who suffer from migraines truly understand the intense pain and discomfort these conditions bring. Symptoms such as a pounding head, dull headaches, and pressure between the eyes can severely impact daily life.

Headaches and migraines are often accompanied by severe nausea, cognitive impairment, and visual disturbances, which can be heartbreaking to witness in loved ones. Unfortunately, our modern, stressful lifestyles have made these conditions quite common. However, there is hope. There are yoga poses for headache poses offers a natural and effective way to alleviate these issues.

Yoga not only provides physical benefits but also helps calm the brain, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, and aid in recovery from anxiety and migraines. This holistic approach can significantly reduce headache and migraine symptoms.

Here are some of the best yoga poses for headache to help relieve migraines:

1. Forward Hero Pose (Virasana)

This is the popular yoga for headache which helps in reducing headaches.

How to Do Forward Hero Pose (Virasana) for Deep Stretch and Relaxation
  • Kneel on the floor with knees hip-width apart and thighs vertical to the ground.
  • Ensure that the toes and fingers of the feet touch the floor.
  • Draw the shoulder blades away from the ears and slightly lean the torso forward.
  • Lower your heart towards the ground with your hands extended in front.
  • Lengthen the tailbone and neck, tuck the chin to the chest, and rest the forehead on the yoga mat.
  • Hold this pose for 30 seconds.

2. Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Downward-Facing Dog Pose: Benefits, Steps & Tips for Perfect Adho Mukha Svanasana
  • Start in a tabletop position with wrists aligned under shoulders and knees under hips.
  • Tuck your toes inward and lift your knees above the mat.
  • Straighten your legs one at a time, keeping heels on the floor, and elevate your hips upward.
  • Center your head between your upper arms and look at your navel.
  • Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.

Also Read: Top 10 Yoga Poses for Neck Pain Relief and Enhance Flexibility

3. Wide Angle Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana)

How to Master Wide Angle Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana) for Flexibility and Strength
  • Begin in Samasthiti and step your feet 3-4 inches apart with hands on your hips.
  • Inhale, lift your chest and elongate the front torso.
  • Exhale, bend forward at the hips and extend your elbows towards the ground.
  • If possible, touch the ground with your head and gaze at your navel.
  • Stay in this pose for 30-60 seconds. To release, bring your hands to your hips, lift the torso, and join the feet to return to Tadasana.

4. Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)

How to Master Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana) for Flexibility and Relaxation
  • Stand straight on a yoga mat with feet evenly spaced and heels a few inches apart.
  • Inhale deeply, stretch the arms upward.
  • Exhale, bend forward, and bring the arms to rest on the floor.
  • Relax your neck and breathe.
  • Hold this pose for 20-30 seconds.

5. Head to Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana)

Head-to-Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana) – Benefits, Steps & Tips
  • Sit with legs stretched in front of you, fold the right leg, and press the heel into the left crotch.
  • Keep the sitting bones grounded and lengthen the spine.
  • Inhale, raise the arms, and with an exhalation, bend forward.
  • Clasp your arms around the left foot and bring your forehead to rest on the shin.
  • Hold this pose for 30 seconds.

6. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)

Seated Forward Bend Stretch: Unlock Flexibility with Paschimottanasana
  • Sit erect on a yoga mat with legs extended and toes flexed.
  • Keep heels 2-3 inches apart.
  • Breathe in, extend your arms upward.
  • Breathe out, fold forward, and reach for your toes.
  • Rest your armpits on your thighs and relax your throat.
  • Hold this pose for 20 seconds.

7. Upward-Facing Dog Pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)

How to Master Upward-Facing Dog Pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) for Strength & Flexibility
  • Lie on your stomach with spine, legs, and hands extended.
  • Press your palms into the mat and lift your head and chest off the floor.
  • Tilt your chin up and gaze back.
  • Hold this pose for 30 seconds.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with headaches or migraines, incorporating these yoga poses for headache into your routine can provide relief and enhance overall well-being.

Conclusion

For more information on yoga practices and wellness retreats, visit the Rishikul Yogshala homepage.


Gangesha Chaitanya

Gangesha Chaitanya

MEDITATION, INSPIRATIONAL AND SPIRITUAL GUIDE
Yogi Gangesha Chaitanya is a renowned master of Yoga Philosophy, Meditation, Pranayama, and Spiritual Guidance. Mentored by the esteemed Swami Rama, he has studied at prestigious institutions, including the Himalayan Tradition, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Brahma Kumaris, and the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. With deep expertise in Kundalini Yoga and meditation, he guides students toward inner awareness and spiritual growth with wisdom and compassion.
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