Couple sleeping

Recovering From a Migraine

When a migraine is over, it isn’t really over. The pain may be gone but the brain isn’t functioning totally normally. It is important to be gentle on yourself and take the time to fully recover. Your body has been through a lot and it needs time to adjust to the changes that are occurring.

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Tip: Namaste away from the pain. Gentle stretching, simple yoga postures and practicing deep breathing techniques can help you recover from a migraine.

8 ways to be gentle on yourself and recover from a migraine

1. Put your home on Migraine Mode

When you have a migraine, you are sensitive to light. Using your smart home app to dim your lights can help reduce eye strain and reduce your pain. If you don’t use a smart home system, dimmer switches can be an easy and effective way to head off the pain.

Swirl of musical notes

2. Put on your Migraine playlist

Many people find it easier to relax when they have a soundtrack of soothing music. These days, it’s easier than ever to search for meditation playlists and find one that works for you. Just remember to listen to music out of speakers instead of headphones. Headphones can make your ears ring, and your pain increase.

3. Sip on caffeine

Whether you prefer tea, espresso or regular cups of joe, moderate amounts of caffeine can help you recover from a migraine. Just remember to sip small amounts. Too much caffeine can increase the pain.

4. Soundproof your home

Soundproofing your home can help you rest easier, and it’s easier than you think. Rugs, drapes and even plants can help drown out noise to make recovering easier.

5. Take a bath or shower

Just as a hot bath or shower can make you feel better when you have a cold or flu, they can help you recover from a migraine. Just remember to use unscented soaps and bubble baths. Harsh scents can be a migraine trigger.

Glass of water with cucumbers in it

6. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Dehydration is a big migraine trigger, so drink up. It’s important to aim for 2 liters a day. Remember that foods have a lot of water in them8 and it counts towards your overall daily intake.

Some water-rich foods include:

  • Watermelon
  • Strawberries
  • Cucumber
  • Cantaloupe
  • Celery
  • Peaches
  • Oranges
  • Lettuce and cabbage
  • Zucchini
  • Broths and soups

7. Drift off into dreamland

While it may be hard to fall asleep when you have a migraine, sleep is encouraged. Try diming the lights, putting on a sleep mask and playing relaxing music to help you fall asleep and recover easier.

8. Stretch and breathe

Simple stretching, gentle yoga poses and breathing exercises can help ease your pain and your tension. If you are going to yoga poses, remember to be gentle on your body and do things like child’s pose or bridge pose.