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Migraine Favourites migraine life

Migraine Favourites

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As a migraineur for two decades, I’ve tried A LOT of things to help with the pain. Some work, some don’t, and some work every so often. Because drugs don’t always help, or you can’t take too many, I’ve reached for a lot of ‘natural’ type of remedies that I can do when I’m traveling, or while I’m waiting for drugs to kick in. Remember, I’m not a doctor, but this is just what has helped me.

Ice Headband
Lots of people reach for the ice cap, but ice doesn’t always sit well with me, so I wanted something a little less intense and something that can be moved around a little easier. This headband is great for when your brain feels like it’s inflamed. I also love that it covers my eyes so I can use it in areas that have strong light (or if my husband needs to get something out of our bedroom, he doesn’t need to use a flashlight).

Green Light
I’ve the Allay lamp, but it’s pretty pricey and they don’t ship to Canada, so you’d have to go through Reship, which just adds extra to the price. I do love my lamp as it can fold up easily for travel, and has a charging docking station for phones (though, I’ve no idea how to use it yet!), so if you’re American, jump on it! Or, e-mail the company if you’re Canadian so they get back to shipping to Canada.

I’ve also heard good things about this bulb, and I’m thinking about buying one so I can keep it at the lake. The downside looks like it needs a dimmer switch, or just to not be right next to you as the light can be bright (an issue I have with the Allay lamp, sometimes, even when it’s dimmed).

Acupressure Mat
I’ve been using this ages. I love my acupressure mat, both for my back, and for my feet. Every night, I stand on the mat (takes a little getting used to. I started with sitting on with my feet on it and then adding more pressure until I could stand), stretch my neck, and feel better. Like some migraine remedies, it’s hard to tell if it 100% works, but it feels good and releasing tension in my feet really helps me. Plus, you can get pillows like this mat, or roll yours up, so it hits your neck and head and feels AH-mazing.

I highly recommend getting one like this that includes the foot ball(s), as well, as it’s a major life saver when traveling. My mat didn’t include a round pillow, but a travel mat I could fold up, and though it works okay on the neck, the pillow would be SO much better.

Foot Massager
So, I’m big into feet when it comes to my migraines. I love reflexology, my acupressure mat, and foot massages when it comes to my migraines. Doing them often to keep migraines at bay, or rubbing my feet (or having someone else – way better) during a migraine attack.

Get one with a warmer, like this one, as warming feet during a migraine attack can help take the blood away from your brain. People always say to immerse them in water, but there is no way I can stand and draw a bath in order to do so. Wrapping my feet in blankets helps loads, though.

Mushroom Hot Chocolate
I’ve become obsessed with mushrooms and their benefits after watching Fantastic Fungi and decided to try this hot chocolate mix. It’s delicious, not too sweet – which I love – and easy to make. I make mine without the coconut oil, and add a splash of oat milk, and/or some whipped cream. I’ve been feeling way better since I’ve started drinking it everyday, and I’ve drank a cup when I felt a migraine coming on a time or two and it’s dissolved.

Every body is different, so it may not work for you, but it’s a delicious treat nonetheless! Make sure you buy any products like this from reputable sources. I get mine from Harmonic Arts.

Ginger
Ginger can really combat migraines. Some people eat ginger candies, something I’ve tried but just can’t do. I do drink a ginger tea every single night before bed. Nothing fancy or special, just this Tetley one. They used to have a ginger peppermint, which was amazing for when your tummy is upset during an attack, but I’ve since not been able to find it. Strong ginger teas aren’t palatable for me, but if they are for you, may be a better option as they’ll have more ginger properties in them.

Whiteflag App
I’ve, honestly, never used this app yet, but I’ve heard so many good things about it. Sometimes, we’re stuck with chronic pain for so long our brains begin to spiral. I always, always recommend a therapist, but if you’re waiting on a referral, or just need someone to talk to in the moment, this app has people who have experienced everything in mental health. Lean on people on you need it.

Do you have any remedies for migraine pain that I haven’t mentioned? Drop a comment below so we can all help one another out!