Throbbing pain, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound are some of the worst symptoms of a migraine headache. Some men can have five or more headaches a month and this interferes with work, home and social life. Although medications can lessen the pain, some have side effects and are expensive. Choosing mindfulness meditation may be the key to helping you banish or decrease these agonizing headaches.
Why use mindfulness?
Research studies have been small, but mindfulness has been shown to promote positive emotions and improve your immune system. It helps relieve stress and depression. A Journal of Research Personality study reported: “The results of this study demonstrated that more mindful individuals were less likely to appraise their day-to-day experiences as stressful. Such individuals also used more approach coping and less avoidant coping strategies to deal with daily stress experiences.”
Be present
When you’re feeling stressed or you feel a migraine coming on, mindfulness meditation can be an alternative to medications. You should focus on feelings instead of thinking about all of your pain and what needs to get done in your day. This does not mean to just stop your medications though. Always discuss plans with your medical provider in the interest of your health.
Online mindfulness groups
If you don’t know how to get started or don’t want to be on your own, use the Internet to search out mindfulness groups. Some groups have over 100,000 members. An excellent place to find a group is the website Insight Timer where diverse subjects such as poetry, prayer, kindness or gratitude are the main focus.
If you feel a migraine coming, try a mindfulness technique like the five minute mindfulness bell. Sit peacefully and listen to the sound fade.
