One in every 1000 persons on earth experiences what can be described as explosions in their heads, on a regular basis. And all most of them can do to deal with the pain is take medication to dull the pain and remove overwhelming feelings of nausea and irritability. These explosions are called migraines – a neurological disorder that leaves one in pain for up to two days. The pain can affect either one or both sides of the head, the forehead and the eyes. Chronic migraine sufferers are highly sensitive to sound, light and pain, but medication just leaves one drowsy and unproductive.
Yoga may not cure migraines, but having a regular routine will allow for the free flow of vital energy in the head. Dealing with the pain and accompanying nausea will become easier and, hopefully, reduce the stress of living with it.
Nasikagra Drishti (Nose-tip gazing)
Sit cross-legged on the floor or on a chair.
Make a fist with your right hand with the thumb sticking upward and extend the arm in front of you.
Focus both eyes on the tip of the thumb.
Bend the arm and slowly bring the thumb to the tip of your nose, as you keep your eyes focused on it.
Hold this pose for a few seconds and slowly straighten your arm completely, with your gaze still locked on the finger tip.
Do five rounds of this.
Bramhari Pranayama (Buzzing Bee Breath)
Sit comfortably with your back supported against a wall or a chair.
Close your ear flaps using your thumbs and spread the rest of your fingers over your skull.
Close your eyes.
Take a deep breath and as you exhale, create a sound like the buzzing of a bee. You can use sounds like ‘E’ or ‘Hung’.
Do this 10 to 15 times.