Nearly everyone has experienced a headache at some point. From a dull ache to excruciating pain, headaches can vary from annoying to debilitating. But fi
According to a 2018 study from the American Headache Society, about 1 in 6 Americans and 1 in 5 women have reported experience a migraine or severe headache in the past three months. And, “headache is consistently the fourth or fifth most common reason for visits to the emergency department, accounting for roughly 3% of all emergency department visits annually.”
Easing the discomfort of a headache can be as simple as taking a pain reliever. However, there are people who prefer natural headache remedies, relieving their symptoms without medication.
This approach can be helpful if the headaches are tension related. The Cleveland Clinic reports that “episodic and chronic tension-type headaches can be improved by managing stress and practicing relaxation training.”
While there are many ways to relax, successful approaches include muscle relaxation, music, and massage.
A hot tub by Master Spas allows you to realize the benefits of hot water therapy while making it easier to relax and manage stress.
Alternative Headache Remedies
Stress Management
Stress can often be a cause for headaches and avoiding situations that cause stress is important. However, it’s not always possible to escape daily challenges and frustrations. You can do your best to manage it. Awareness and being proactive can go a long way in easing stress and, hopefully, preventing headaches.
The Mayo Clinic advises migraine sufferers to take a break when they begin to feel overwhelmed. “A few slow stretches or a quick walk may renew your energy for the task at hand.”
It’s also important to take 15 minutes each day to do something you like. It’s a medication-free way to battle chronic headaches. You can chat with a friend, garden, play an instrument, or soak in a Master Spas hot tub.
Research has shown that spending 20 minutes in a hot tub can help with feelings of stress and anxiety. The warm water of a hot tub can help the body release endorphins, giving you a sense of calm and improve your mood.
Related post: Stress relief is just 20 minutes away
Self-Care
Self-care feels like a buzz word in the health space. While it can be overused, the concept cannot be overdone. It’s important to take time to do the things that benefit our mental and physical well-being.
For people who struggle with headaches, self-care is of the utmost importance. Maintaining and physical health can reduce the severity of systems, as well as prevent the onset of a headache.
Eating well, getting active, and keeping a diary can be a part of that self-care routine. Kaiser Permanentealso suggests keeping a diary so that you know when you get a headache and the circumstances around it.
But sometimes implementing a self-care routine can feel stressful. A Master Spas hot tub, though, can fit into that routine without feeling like a task. Consider starting your day with a cup of coffee and quick soak. Or, maybe, you let your spouse cook dinner while you unwind after work.
Massage
Regular massage can be an effective therapy for headaches. Massage can be a part of a self-care routine and a way to ease stress. More than though, massage can target some of the causes of headaches — muscle tension and spasms.
According to a study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, a 30-minute massage can help people with chronic tension-type headaches. The massages not only have physical benefits but offer a mental boost as well. Those who received the massage reported relief from symptoms within 24 hours.
The StressRelief Neck and Shoulder Seat features out-of-the-water jets that target areas where muscle tension can contribute to headaches— the neck and shoulders. You can easily adjust the water pressure so that you get a therapeutic massage that will help with headaches.
Master Spas hot tubs also feature hydrotherapy jets that target other areas of the body, including the back, hips, and legs.
Sleep
It might not be a surprise that there’s a relationship between headaches and sleep. Research shows that people who do not get enough sleep will have more headaches and the severity is worse. In addition, chronic headaches can make it more challenging to fall asleep.
“Sleep complaints occurred with greater frequency among chronic than episodic migraineurs,” according to a study in Headache.
As such, an important part of headache management is a good sleep routine. Be sure to have a set bedtime schedule — go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
The Mayo Clinic also suggests finding a way to unwind in the evening. “Anything that helps you relax can promote better sleep: listen to soothing music, soak in a warm bath or read a favorite book.”
A hot tub can be a part of your night-time routine, allowing you to relax and improve your sleep. Soaking in warm water affects your body temperature, and the change allows you to fall asleep more quickly and achieve deeper sleep.
Related post: Sleep Easier, Sleep Better with a Hot Tub
A hot tub is an enjoyable way to focus on your health and well-being. However, be sure to consult medical professionals and seek appropriate treatment if you are struggling with chronic headaches.