Follow Along Self Massage for Migraines and Headaches

Summary

In this video, Spencer from H Massage demonstrates a self-massage technique to alleviate migraines and headaches. He addresses the common stress-induced headaches during the holiday season and pandemic, guiding viewers through a routine targeting key muscle areas. The video covers massaging the forehead, eyebrows, temples, jaw, and neck muscles with detailed instructions and variations for personal comfort. Spencer emphasizes the importance of sustained pressure and proper technique to release tension and improve blood flow, concluding with a scalp massage for a holistic approach to headache relief.

Takeaways

• 🤲 The video offers a self-massage routine to alleviate headaches and migraines.
• 👐 It's suggested to use massage lotion for a smoother massage experience.
• 👁 Starting with the area where the eyes meet the nose can help with headache relief.
• 🕒 Applying sustained pressure to certain areas can help loosen muscles and reduce pain.
• 🔁 The video demonstrates techniques for massaging the temporalis muscles and jaw area.
• 👂 Massaging the back and underside of the jaw can help with neck tension and ear clearance.
• 💆‍♂️ The neck and shoulders are also targeted, including the suboccipital ridge and SCM muscles.
• 🔁 Circular motions and sustained pressure are used to warm up tissues and increase blood flow.
• 🧠 The video emphasizes the importance of addressing muscle tension as a common cause of headaches.
• 🔚 Ending the massage with a scalp massage can further help in reducing headache symptoms.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to demonstrate a self-massage routine for the neck and head to help alleviate migraines and headaches, particularly those caused by neck tension and stress.

Why is it important to use lotion during the massage?

Lotion is used to make the hands soft and to apply to the forehead, jaws, and neck muscles to facilitate smooth and comfortable massage movements without causing friction or irritation to the skin.

What is the first area the video suggests massaging for headache relief?

The first area to massage is where the eyes meet the nose, specifically the ridge of the eyebrow, which is a common trigger point for headaches.

What technique is used to massage the area around the eyes?

The technique involves applying sustained pressure with the thumbs right at the ridge of the eye, holding until the muscles loosen or the pain subsides, and then dragging the thumbs outward above the eye.

How does the video suggest massaging the temporalis muscle?

The video suggests using fingertips to apply circular pressure to the temporalis muscle, which is located at the temples. It also mentions that one might feel a 'pop' if the area is tight.

What is the significance of massaging the jaw area?

Massaging the jaw area helps to reduce tension in the muscles there, which can contribute to headaches. It also aids in clearing the ears and potentially alleviating stuffiness from colds or allergies.

Why is it recommended to be gentle when massaging the back and underside of the jaw?

It is recommended to be gentle in this area because it contains lymph nodes, and applying too much pressure could cause discomfort or harm.

What is the suboccipital ridge and why is it important in the massage routine?

The suboccipital ridge is where the occiput meets the neck. Massaging this area is important as it helps to relieve tension headaches and can also mobilize the neck.

How can one find the SCM muscle for massage?

The SCM muscle can be found by locating where it bulges out to the sides of the throat. It is recommended to press inwards while looking up to effectively massage this muscle.

What is the final step of the massage routine as suggested in the video?

The final step of the massage routine is to massage the scalp using fingertips, which can be done by moving quickly, slowly, or even holding stationary to press into the skin and fascia.

How often should one perform this massage routine for headache relief?

The video suggests that the massage routine can be performed daily if one is experiencing significant pain, or specific parts of it can be chosen based on what provides relief from headaches or migraines.