Massage: headaches

There are endless causes of headaches and it is impossible to indicate all of them. However the most common ones are caused by muscular and emotional tension. Muscles contract in the scalp and the back of the neck, blood cannot circulate properly and therefore the whole system of removing toxins collapses. According to my experience face massage is probably the fastest and most efficient remedy if it is done properly. If you have no chance to get one try this:

1. Place your hands on both sides of your head, with fingers spread out and palms on the temples, above and slightly in front of your ears.
2. Your middle fingers should almost reach each other and your little fingers should be on the hairline
3. Close your eyes and take a deep breath
4. When you start to breath out press gradually into both temples with your palms
5. Hold this pressure on both temples counting to 5 and then start to make 3 circles with your palms. The movement has to be very slow and precise.
6. Remember that you are pressing with your palms while your fingers are resting on your head.
7. You might want to take several breaths in the meantime.
8. When you finish, slowly open your eyes and drink 2 or glasses of water.

Originally published in Stella Magazine, the weekly supplement of The Sunday Telegraph