Yoga Exercises for Migraines

Yoga is a great form of exercise, and in addition to increasing your flexibility and fitness, it might even help get rid of migraines. The relaxation that results from this natural fitness regimen can soothe muscles, ease pain and release tension--all of which can bring on migraines or make them worse. What's more, certain positions may prevent migraines altogether.

Yoga for Migraines

• Yoga is known to ease the symptoms of many medical problems, including migraines. Yoga increases flexibility as well as your oxygen intake, which is important for your overall health. Getting more oxygen to the blood and ultimately to the blood vessels that feed your head can decrease headaches.

  Yoga is also easy on the body and should not strain muscles, nor should it cause stiffness. Because migraines can sometimes start with tension in the neck, yoga's soothing movements can nip them in the bud by easing tension in sore muscles. Whether your migraines come on slowly or begin abruptly, doing yoga exercises especially geared toward migraines should ease the pain.

Treat Migraines With Yoga

• Once a migraine comes on, the best yoga positions are restorative positions, which help relieve the pain and discomfort of a migraine.

  One restorative position requires you to lie on the floor on your back, facing the wall. Put your feet up on the wall and rest your arms down by your sides or on your stomach. Your legs should stay up on the wall without effort. You can place a blanket or towel under your neck for support, then place a cool cloth over your eyes. Stay in this position for approximately 10 minutes.

  Another migraine yoga position to try: Sit on the floor, make a diamond shape with your legs by bringing the soles of your feet together, and let your legs fall open. This helps relax the back, where a lot of headaches start.

Yoga Poses to Prevent Migraines

• Not only can yoga positions treat migraines, they also may be able to prevent them. Among the specific positions that claim to prevent migraines is the wide-legged forward bend. In this position, stand with your legs spread wide apart and bend at the waist. First place your hands on the floor, then rest your head on the floor. If you can't get all the way down, do this exercise with a chair and rest your head on the chair. Hold the position for 15-20 seconds.

  An exercise called the downward facing dog requires you to get on the floor with your hands flat on the floor directly below your shoulders. Make an inverted V by lifting your hips toward the ceiling. Hold this position for 15-20 seconds, then allow yourself to go back to your hands and knees.

  Having your legs climb a wall is another good preventive measure. Lie on your back and let your legs extend up the wall. You can support your neck with a pillow if need be. Rest your arms at your sides and cover your eyes with a cool compress. Stay in this position for up to 10 minutes.