Ways to Help Migraines: Finding Your Inner Calm (& Possibly a Little Humour)

Migraines. The word alone can make anyone shudder. If you’re someone who’s had to deal with the intensity of a migraine, you probably know it’s more than just a headache—it’s like a tiny jackhammer pounding away at your brain.

And while there’s no magic switch to instantly banish migraines, there are definitely ways to take the edge off and maybe even have a little fun along the way (or at least distract yourself enough to survive the storm).

So, let’s dive into some lighthearted yet helpful ways to fight those pesky migraines. Spoiler: you might not feel like dancing right away, but you’ll feel a lot better just by trying a few of these tricks!

1. Embrace the Power of Silence

Alright, let’s start with the obvious—when you’ve got a migraine, the world feels like a booming concert that you didn’t sign up for. So, one of the first things you can do is create a silent haven. Find a dark, quiet room, pull the blinds, and just let your brain reset. Silence is like a little vacation for your mind when it's on full sensory overload.

Top Tip: If you’re not the “dark room” type, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones and some calming music or white noise can work wonders. Plus, it might trick your brain into thinking it’s at a spa, even if it's really just your living room.

2. Cool Down or Heat Up (Your Choice)

Cold or warm compresses—either way, your head is going to thank you. For some migraine sufferers, a cold compress on the forehead can feel like an instant relief, like a refreshing ice pack for your brain. Others might find that a warm compress at the back of the neck works wonders. It’s like a spa treatment, but way less fancy.

Top Tip: Make your own DIY migraine relief kit with a cool towel or a heat pad—whatever works best for your migraine mood. Just be sure to experiment to see which one gives you the most relief!

3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate (But Not Too Much)

Migraines love to sneak in when you're dehydrated, so keeping hydrated can be an easy way to head off the discomfort. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip it slowly—no need to chug like you’re in a race. That might just make things worse.

Top Tip: Try adding a slice of lemon or cucumber to make it feel fancy. It’s like a mini spa retreat in a bottle. You’ll feel better hydrated and more refreshed, even if you don’t manage to escape the migraine entirely.

4. Gentle Massage (Not Like a Full-Body Workout)

When you’re not feeling like moving much (because migraines are rude like that), a gentle head or neck massage can be surprisingly soothing. Think light pressure around your temples or a little rub on the back of your neck. It can help release tension that might be contributing to the migraine.

Top Tip: If you’re lucky enough to have a loved one around, kindly ask them for a little migraine TLC. If you’re alone, grab a tennis ball and roll it gently over your neck and shoulders—better than nothing!

5. Breathe Like You’re in Yoga Class

Deep breathing—sounds simple, right? But when you're in the middle of a migraine, it’s one of the most effective ways to help calm your nervous system and ease the pain. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly. Try to visualize your headache gently melting away with each breath.

Top Tip: If you’re feeling extra zen, do some simple mindfulness exercises while breathing. It can help distract you from the migraine and reset your focus, even if just for a few minutes. Plus, the calm vibes might help you cope with the pain.

6. Dim the Lights, Turn Down the Noise, and Mellow Out

It’s not just about hiding from the world—light sensitivity is a real migraine villain. If you’ve been in bright or flickering lights all day, it might be a big reason why the migraine hit. Dim the lights or close the blinds, and create a cozy space for your headache to chill out.

Top Tip: Download a blue light filter app on your phone or computer if you're stuck in front of a screen. It’s like giving your eyes a gentle break from the digital glare, and it might just make the migraine retreat a little faster.

7. Essential Oils – They’re Not Just for Fancy Diffusers

Lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus essential oils can be the secret weapon you never knew you had. A little dab of diluted lavender oil on your temples or a few drops of peppermint oil on the back of your neck can provide a soothing, cooling sensation and help ease tension.

Top Tip: If you're not into the whole essential oil scene, try a soothing herbal tea like peppermint or chamomile. It’s like drinking a warm hug for your insides—and it might just help calm the storm in your head.

8. Distraction (Or Just Pretend to Be a Couch Potato)

Sometimes the best thing you can do when a migraine is hammering away at your skull is to distract yourself—Netflix binge, anyone? While you might not have the energy for a full-on workout or a night out, a comedy show or a cozy movie can take your mind off the migraine. Just keep the lights low, and avoid anything that could strain your eyes or make your head throb harder.

Top Tip: Try watching something lighthearted or comforting. Laughter (or at least a gentle chuckle) is the best medicine, and it’ll help you feel a little more human while the migraine slowly recedes.

9. Caffeine – In Moderation, of Course

Okay, we know you’ve heard it both ways—caffeine is both your best friend and your worst enemy when it comes to migraines. For some people, a small amount of caffeine (like a cup of coffee or tea) can help reduce migraine pain. It has vasoconstrictive properties that help narrow the blood vessels in your brain, which can ease the throbbing.

Top Tip: Don’t overdo it, though. Too much caffeine can actually worsen a migraine. Go for a small, moderate amount, and see if it helps take the edge off. Plus, it’ll give you an excuse to have a cozy coffee moment—even when you’re not feeling your best.

Migraines are no joke, and they can make you feel like you’re stuck in a fog of pain and frustration. But remember, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer through them in silence. Whether it’s through hydrating, a little essential oil magic, or just curling up in a dark room with a comedy show, there are plenty of ways to help ease the pain and get back to feeling like yourself.

So, next time a migraine strikes, take a deep breath, grab a cool compress, and remember: You’ve got this! It might take some time, but with a little self-care and some clever tricks, that migraine doesn’t stand a chance.