Headache is a very common problem. Just tell someone that you have headache and they'll feel it's just a minor, temporary problem. But only you, suffering from it, can realize the real pain associated with it.

The causes of headache are many. Right from general stress, over work to poor diet, anything could cause headache. You may generally end up popping a pan killer to get rid of it. However, if the headache is not that serious or chronic in nature, you can also try using alternative therapies to combat it. They are safe as well as effective.

Let your hair down

Get a gentle massage done on your head and upper back with warm oil and then just take a hot shower. Lie down for 10-15 minutes and find your headache gone. A hot shower relieves the nerves and helps you get relaxed. If you are extremely tired and the pain is too hard to bear, just sleep for a little longer time than usual and the pain would be gone. You can also try using heating pads at the bottom of your neck.

Say no to alcohol or coffee

Addiction to caffeine or alcohol can lead to headache. So, if you find that too much of coffee develops headache, stop immediately. Instead, have lot of fluids and water. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also have green tea, which is sure to relax your irking nerves. Also, have a nutritive diet regularly, to keep your body healthy.

Set aside a few hours every day for meditation and deep breathing exercises. You don't need to be a specialist; a few basic techniques can make a lot of difference. Just sit in a relaxed atmosphere, inhale and exhale slowly and focus on your breaths. Yoga is also very helpful to keep stress and worries at bay. You can also chant some mantras or resort to other forms of meditation.

Acupressure and acupuncture help

In case of chronic headache, you can head to an acupuncture or acupressure specialist and let him carry out the therapy over you. Pinching certain special points can give both, instant as well as long-term relief in headache. Acupressure and acupuncture are both helpful in improving the frequency of headaches.

Don't take headache for granted and resort to medical aid if you suffer from it every now and then. It could be a severe form of headache which may require immediate medical attention.