Shiatsu Massage for Migraine Headaches

Shiatsu is a form of acupressure massage, that focuses on zoning on key pressure points and tender spots in the body. When performed in a whole-body massage, shiatsu heps to relieve tension, reduce stress, increase joint and muscle flexibility, and unblock energy. Shiatsu massage comes from a combination of Japanese healing methods, and uses only finger and pulse points to generate a flow of valuable energy to various areas of the body.

Treatments range from respiratory problems, digestive issues, and other mental health benefits of massage. Migraine headache sufferers can also benefit from this holistic approach, as the finger pressure used in the cranial area and temples, brings potential for sufficient relief from stress.

Migraine headaches are a result of built up tension and either a blockage of blood flow and energy, or ‘overflow’ to the base of the head and spinal cord. This in turn results in blurry vision, a progressive headache, and often creates a period of discomfort and anxiety for the migraine sufferer. Migraine headaches are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting, and may require a few hours of rest in a cool, dark place to subside. For those who use prescription drugs for their migraine problems, the drugs are designed to decrease blood flow to the area and bring relief. Progesterone shots are another method for women who get cyclical migraines along with their menstrual cycle. However, the tension and congested energy from a migraine headache can be released with simple techniques from shiatsu massage.

In addition, shiatsu massage helps migraine headache sufferers with issues of digestive distress such as nausea and vomiting. This is because it also may help relieve tension built up in the stomach region, and provides just one step towards overall balancing.

To begin a shiatsu massage for migraine headaches, you will need to sit in a comfortable chair or lie down; choose a dark and dimly lit area, as the oncoming or current migraine headache has likely made you sensitive to light.

1. Begin the shiatsu massage procedure at the center of your forehead between your eyebrows, applying tension to the most tender points.

2. Start with the top of the head, and apply pressure with your middle and index finger pressing down gently on the middle of your head.

3. Apply pressure to the base of your skull right above your spine, with your thumb and middle finger. You can either ‘pulse’ the pressure, or push down and hold for a count of 5, relieve, and repeat.

4. Reduce digestive distress such as nauseau and tension in the stomach area, by massaging and squeezing the area between your thumb and index finger (on the back of your hand).

5. Improve the flow of energy to your head, by massaging upward in all motions. It’s also helpful to take an alternating extreme hot and cold shower, as this increases blood flow significantly and may help relieve the congestion overall.

Shiatsu massage technique can bring relief for not only migraine headache sufferers, but a variety of ailments including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, emotional balancing, and overall relaxation. This ancient Asian ritual is practiced in a variety of forms and levels today, from simple to advanced. You can find a practitioner in your local area by looking into holistic medicine and alternative therapy, or practice some simple techniques yourself.

If your migraine headaches become, or are, progressively severe, its best to consult with your physician or healthcare provider for resources and additional support you may need.