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Exercises

Calming 1-minute breathing exercise

The "box breathing" exercise helps calm the body, which can be an effective method for managing migraines and headaches. This breathing technique is known to lower stress hormones and help release tension in the neck and shoulders, which often contribute to migraine attacks.

By
Hemi Health
Hemi Health

The exercise can be done sitting or lying down, making it accessible for anyone seeking relief from migraines and headaches. To get started, find a square in the room, such as a picture on the wall, or visualize one. This visualization can be part of a broader migraine treatment strategy, which may also include medication and keeping a headache diary.

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How to perform the exercise:

  1. Start at one corner of the square and inhale slowly through your nose while counting to 4.
  2. Hold your breath while counting to 4.
  3. Exhale slowly through your mouth while counting to 4 again.
  4. Pause without inhaling while counting to 4.

This simple yet effective exercise can help reduce stress and tension, making it useful for treating both common headaches and migraines with aura. Migraines with aura can be particularly bothersome, and this technique may help reduce the associated visual disturbances and other symptoms.

Integrating box breathing into your daily routine can complement other treatments, such as migraine medication, and assist those suffering from cluster headaches. By combining various methods and tools like a headache diary, you can take a more holistic approach to managing migraines and headaches.

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“Hemi is a private specialist clinic featuring some of the country's leading experts in headaches and related conditions. We offer thorough assessment and targeted treatment for both children and adults.”

Portræt af ung kvinde med langt brunt hår, smilende, iført hvid bluse og sølvsmykker mod neutral baggrund.
Anna Løfqvist
Head of Brand & Communication
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Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.
Green semi-circular shape with a soft shadow in the top left corner.

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