Study finds meditation effective in providing migraine relief

(NaturalNews) According to researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina, meditation has been found to be beneficial for those dealing with the bothersome effects of migraines. Nineteen adults were divided into two groups where 10 of them received mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), which combines yoga and standardized meditation, and nine received common medical care.^(1,2)

Those receiving MBSR participated in eight weekly classes in order to learn meditation techniques and were asked to engage in the process on their own at least five additional days weekly for 45 minutes and to keep track of progress in journals.^(1,2) The other group was given prescriptions and asked to return for follow-up visits.

"We found that MBSR participants had trends of fewer migraines that were less severe," said Rebecca Erwin Wells, an assistant professor of neurology at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Furthermore, she explains that the participants also developed a heightened sense of mindfulness and feelings of control over their pain, additional benefits that came without the sometimes adverse reactions or lack of adherence that results when more conventional medical methods are recommended.⁽³⁾

Other natural ways to relieve migraine headache

According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines occur when there is intense throbbing in the head which is typically preceded or accompanied by light and sound sensitivities, flashes of light, arm tingling or nausea. The Clinic lists proper rest and meditation as one of their migraine self-care recommendations.⁽⁴⁾

In addition to MBSR, those who experience migraines and headaches may also want to consider eating more protein-rich foods such as beans and ones that help regulate blood sugar like whole wheat. Harvard Medical School experts explain that eating foods which keep blood sugar stable can help prevent migraines.⁽⁵⁾ Furthermore, it's also suggested to eat frequently, enjoying several small, healthy meals throughout the day, and making sure to stay hydrated.

"For the approximate 36 million Americans who suffer from migraines, there is big need for non-pharmaceutical treatment strategies, and doctors and patients should know that MBSR is a safe intervention that could potentially decrease the impact of migraines," said Wells.⁽³⁾

Sources:

(1) http://www.hngn.com

(2) http://www.upi.com

(3) http://www.eurekalert.org

(4) http://www.mayoclinic.org

(5) http://www.livestrong.com

(6) http://science.naturalnews.com

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