Here are a few suggestions:
- Don’t over schedule yourself
- Make time for yourself every day (about 30 minutes of relaxation)
- Keep a to-do list
- Stay organized
- Take breaks regularly
- Have a shoulder or two to lean on
- Get enough sleep every night
- Don’t try to be ‘superman’ or ‘superwoman’
- Learn to say no to anything that does not advance your journey to your best life
- Eat well
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
- Make an appointment with exercise every da-30 minute is all it takes
- Try meditation-it is calming and improves focus and concentration, helping you sail through your to-do list each day
- Notice when you’re stressed, and apply stress management techniques, such as visualization (see below), inhaling calming aromatherapy oils, and so on
You are in much more control over your stress than you think, so try these techniques to see which work best in various situations.
Supplements and herbs
There are a number of supplements that have been found to help relieve headaches naturally and have a low risk of side effects.
Butterbur
Butterbur has been shown effective for preventing and treating migraines. It can also help with hay fever and is generally considered safe.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is a critical element involved in the conversion of energy in the cells. It is also essential for heart health. The recommended dose is 150 mg twice a day to prevent migraines.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a herbal supplement that comes from the leaves of a particular member of the chrysanthemum family. It has been prove effective trough anecdotal evidence, however, the dosage is not clear and there are some concerns over side effects, particularly poor blood clotting. The fresh leaves are dangerous if chewed. It is also important to note that potency of the supplement can vary greatly, most likely due to which season it was gathered in. Most herbal remedies will be at their most potent in spring and summer.
Fish Oil
Fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce stress and help heart health. The fatty acids maintain the membranes of the nerve cells and it is believed therefore make them less sensitive to pain.
Omega-3s can be derived naturally from the fish you eat, such as salmon, cod, mackerel and sardines. In terms of migraines, research has shown that 500 mg three times a day can help. Side effects are rare, but those who already have a heart condition need to be careful. Some people also report upset stomachs and fishy breath, or belching and tasting fish. You should also aim for the most natural fish oil supplements, such as those from Alaskan salmon. Avoid cheap supplements.
Ginger
Ginger is a very tasty root used in Indian and Chinese cooking and medicine. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore calming and soothing for both migraine and digestion. It also improves circulation, which might reduce the ‘throbbing’ commonly associated with headaches.
