Intravenous (IV) therapy is a popular health and wellness trend. Many celebrities promote IV therapy on social media and podcasts, and some claim that it helps them feel more alive and healthy. Although it may not be a cure-all for hangovers, it may help relieve symptoms related to dehydration. 

IV therapy is not the standard medical protocol for hangover relief; rather it is somewhat of a boutique and elective treatment. During the treatment, the patient receives a high dose of vitamins directly into their bloodstream. This allows the body to rapidly absorb nutrients at higher doses. Some of the issues that patients claim IV therapy helps include:

• Migraines
• Fatigue
• Withdrawal
• Hangovers
• Dehydration
• Fibromyalgia
• Headaches
• Cold symptoms

The Myers’ cocktail is the most popular mixture of vitamins and minerals. The name comes from John Myers, who first administered this treatment in the 1970s. A Myers’ cocktail includes:

• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• B-complex vitamin
• Vitamin C

How Does IV Hydration Work For Hangovers?

The theory behind administering an IV for hangovers is that it can reduce dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and harmful metabolite buildup. Basically, injecting fluids directly into the  veins gives the body quick access to water and nutrients lost via urination or vomiting while drinking alcohol. By adding fluids, you can help dilute and flush out the harmful toxins left behind from alcohol breakdown. That helps support kidney and liver function. 

What Is In An IV Drip For Hangover Relief?

Simple IV fluid drips for hangovers aim to replenish fluids and relieve dehydration. They contain sterile water and at least one electrolyte. The most common fluids for mild dehydration are traditional saline (water and 0.9% sodium chloride) and Ringer’s solution (a mixture of water, sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and lactate). 

Most hangover IV infusions contain a 0.9% sodium chloride base, but you can customize the therapy with other additives. Those additives may not improve or cure your hangover, but they provide vital nutrients that the body can use. Sometimes, an anti-nausea medication may be added to the drip to help relieve gastrointestinal issues. 

Are There Risks Of IV Therapy?

One of the risks of this type of therapy is that the nutrients bypass the body’s gatekeeping functions. That can overload your bloodstream with vitamins all at once, which does not allow the stomach to digest them slowly. Although it is rare, vitamin toxicity can occur as a result, but that depends on the amount of vitamins and minerals you receive via IV. A high dose of vitamin C, for example, may cause the body to produce oxalates, which increases the risk of developing kidney stones. For that reason, people with renal disease should be cautious about IV therapy. 

Using vitamin therapy too frequently may cause nutritional imbalances. It’s possible for IV therapy to upset electrolyte levels. Overhydration (yes, this is a real thing) is another possible risk from frequent IV therapy. You may also experience nausea, confusion, or headaches as a result of overhydration.

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Hotter temperatures and summer go hand in hand. The heat should not come as a surprise to you during the summer. The heat may do more than make you sweat, though. Researchers note that rising temperatures increase certain health risks. 

A 2022 study of more than 219 million American adults over the age of 20 suggested a link between extreme heat and all-cause mortality. The most significant risks were associated with older individuals. Health experts note that everyone, regardless of age, should understand the health risks that come with extreme heat. That is especially true because there are a lot of outdoor activities that occur during summer. It’s easy to get distracted on a beach day, for example, and that can be a detriment to your health if you aren’t paying attention to bodily signals. 

Being aware of how extreme heat affects the body can help you take proper precautions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that 2023 was the warmest year on record. Early indications suggest that 2024 will follow suit, so be prepared and do your best to stay cool during these summer months. 

Health Risks That Increase With Hotter Weather

Specific populations are at a higher risk of experiencing health issues when temperatures rise. That said, nobody is immune to heat-related health issues. Understanding the signs can help you protect yourself (and others) from severe outcomes resulting from heat exposure. The populations at a higher risk include:

• Older adults, especially people with underlying health conditions
• Infants and young children because their bodies cannot regulate temperature as well
• Pregnant people
• People with chronic health issues

Heart Attack

According to research published in 2023, cardiovascular disease deaths caused by heat could surge by approximately 162% by 2036-2065. Another study from 2023 examined more than 202,000 heart attacks in Jiangsu, China. Study authors noticed a strong correlation between a person’s chances of dying from heart attack and extremely hot and cold temperatures. When the body is exposed to heat, especially temperatures higher than body temperature, the heart has to work a lot harder. It needs to circulate the blood out toward the skin to allow for sweating and other mechanisms that protect the body from heat. The harder the heart has to work, the greater the risk of heart problems in those at risk. 

Heatstroke

Although it seems obvious that heat increases the risk of heatstroke, a lot of people do not understand the symptoms or risk. Heatstroke, much like stroke, is a medical emergency. Signs of heatstroke include confusion, altered behavior, change in speech, or even seizure. Heatstroke differs from heat exhaustion, although the two are related. Heat exhaustion is the body’s warning sign that it is overheating. You may experience headache, dizziness, nausea, etc. You should slow down and rehydrate with fluids and electrolytes and seek shade if you experience these symptoms. Refrain from consuming caffeine and alcohol in the heat because they can dehydrate the body.

Higher Or Lower Blood Pressure

Hot weather can cause blood pressure to become too high or too low. When you sweat a lot, the body loses fluids and blood volume, the decrease of which can drop blood pressure. This issue becomes more pronounced when you change positions, such as standing up after lying down. Dehydration also puts undue strain on the kidneys, which can decrease blood pressure. On the other side of the coin, heat can elevate blood pressure because the body has to work harder to circulate blood in order to cool down. Although high blood pressure can be asymptomatic, it may trigger dizziness or headaches. 

Migraine Attacks

Speaking of dizziness and headaches, let’s talk about migraines. Data indicates that migraine attacks affect 12 to 15% of the general population, and the effects can be debilitating. Migraines can cause irritability, light sensitivity, dizziness, nausea, cravings, and seeing of odd shapes. According to recent research, hotter temperatures may increase the risk of a migraine attack. Heat can increase inflammatory effects that can prolong migraines. Plus, dehydration can decrease the body’s ability to fight a migraine. 

Stroke

A study from 2020 found that weather conditions, especially high heat, are becoming a factor for the risk of stroke. There may be a lag period of one to six days between extreme weather exposure and stroke. Another study from 2020, which has yet to be published in a scientific journal, found that stroke severity increased by more than 67% for every 9ºF uptick in average temperature over the course of three days. Extreme heat puts stress on the body, especially in the elderly, which can lead to an increased risk of stroke. Look out for vision changes, facial droop, slurred speech, and weakness of arms or legs (especially on one side).

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If you deal with seasonal allergies, you understand that they can be quite annoying. You sneeze uncontrollably, develop itchy eyes, experience congestion for hours, and the sinus pressure can become quite annoying. Symptoms may result from hay fever, seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis. If you are like most people who deal with allergies, you probably use numerous over-the-counter (OTC) medications to combat the symptoms. Some of those medications, however, can have a long list of their own side effects.

If you are ready to leave the OTC medications behind and experiment with natural solutions, you may be in luck. Some evidence indicates that natural solutions may relieve or reduce the severity of symptoms. If you have an understanding of the way antihistamines work, you can determine whether natural antihistamines will help with seasonal allergies.

How Do Antihistamines Work?

An allergic reaction is the immune system’s response to an otherwise harmless substance. That substance can be pollen, animal dander, dust, or mildew. Such a substance comes in contact with the cellist the mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, throat, or lungs. If you have allergies, the immune system releases histamine, a chemical that causes sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms. 

Antihistamines work to block histamine activity in order to stop the allergic reaction. According to research, many vitamins, minerals, and plants can block the effects of histamine. Continue reading to learn more about these natural antihistamines. 

Probiotics

Probiotics are microorganisms that can help improve your gut microbiome. They feed the healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help improve immune function. A 2021 review found that probiotics may help reduce and even prevent allergy symptoms. The same review suggests that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of asthma and atopic dermatitis. Some great probiotics to consume include:

• Sauerkraut
• Kombucha
• Tempeh
• Kimchi
• Natto

Quercetin

You can find this natural antioxidant in grapefruit, okra, onions, apples, and other produce items. It is also available in supplement form, which is where you may have seen it. It is one of the most abundant antioxidants in the diet and helps to reduce inflammation, blood pressure, and the severity of allergy symptoms. A 2022 study found that quercetin may act as an antihistamine, working to reduce allergy symptoms. 

Bromelain

Commonly found in pineapples, bromelain is a compound that causes the body to make substances that fight swelling and pain. Studies have shown that bromelain is effective at reducing inflammation from sprains, tendinitis, and other muscle injuries. Regarding allergies, bromelain may help relieve respiratory symptoms associated with allergic reactions. A 2023 analysis found that bromelain proved effective against sinusitis.

Stinging Nettle

This flowering plant originated in Asian and Western Northern Africa. There is both some positive and neutral evidence surrounding stinging nettle as an effective antihistamine. One study from 2009 found that stinging nettle helped reduce allergy symptoms. A 2017 study, however, found nettle to act similarly to a placebo pill. More research is necessary to understand whether this plant is an effective antihistamine. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is readily available in myriad plant-based foods. Some of the best sources include bell peppers, kiwis, guavas, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and berries. A 2023 review found that vitamin C helped improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and itching.

Butterbur Bonus

As a bonus natural antihistamine option, we bring you butterbur. This marsh plant, which belongs to the daisy family, may be effective at reducing the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks. A 2023 study reported that it may be a safe and effective natural treatment for people with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

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The Migraine Research Foundation estimates that nearly 39 million Americans experience migraines. If you are one of these people, then you understand the debilitating symptoms that migraines cause. Some of the those include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and odors
• Vomiting

What is A Migraine?

A migraine is a headache that is characterized by severe throbbing pain or pulsing sensation. It typically occurs on one side of the head and is accompanied by the symptoms listed above. Migraine attacks can last for a couple hours to a couple days. Occasionally, the pain is so intense that it interferes with everyday activities. For some people, a warning symptom, or an aura, occurs before the actual headache. An aura can include visual disturbances, such as blurry vision, or other disturbances, such as tingling of the face or arm.

When you can identify and avoid certain triggers, you can minimize the chances of having a migraine attack. Continue reading to learn how to avoid a migraine before it happens. 

Keep A Headache Diary

When you keep a headache diary, you can better identify your specific migraine triggers. Writing things down can help you notice a pattern in your migraine occurrences, which can make avoiding them much easier. Some things you can keep track of include:

• The weather
• What you eat or drink
• Your medications and their side effects
• Your exercise routine and schedule
• Severity and timing of your headaches
• Intense emotions or feelings

Pay Attention To Hormonal Changes

Your hormones play a role in the development and severity of a migraine. Many women tend to experience migraine attacks during, or just before, menstruation. During this time, women may need to be extra cautious with food choices and exercise habits. The reason for this is because both diet and exercise can help you address symptoms before they begin. If you don’t exercise or eat the wrong foods, you may worsen symptoms. Oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the severity and frequency of migraines as well. If you take oral contraceptives, you may find migraine relief by switching to another form of birth control. 

Eat And Sleep On A Regular Schedule

When you fast or skip meals, especially if you are not accustomed to a fasting schedule, you may experience headaches or migraines. Ideally, you should eat within an hour or two of waking up, and then space your next meals about three to four hours apart. Both hunger and dehydration can trigger migraine attacks, so make sure to eat enough and hydrate regularly. Lack of sleep can also cause migraine symptoms, which is why sleep experts encourage everyone to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. Getting too much sleep, interestingly enough, can also trigger migraine episodes. Find the right amount of sleep that works best for you. 

Pay Attention To Your Food Choices

As previously mentioned, maintaining a regular eating schedule can help reduce migraine attacks. So too can the foods and drinks you decide to consume. For example, the following foods may trigger a migraine attack:

• Red wine
• Sweeteners
• Chocolate
• Cheese
• Processed meats

When you know which foods, drinks, additives, etc. can bring about migraine symptoms, you can avoid them at all costs. Foods and drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol, such as red wines or champagne, are common migraine triggers. If you regularly consume these items and experience migraines or headaches, consider reducing your intake per day, or cut them out and only consume them on occasion. 

Choose Low Intensity Exercises

Regular exercise is an integral part of achieving optimal overall health. If you engage in intense exercise, such as weightlifting, you may trigger migraines. The body responds differently to certain activities, so gauge your body’s response to various exercises. Activities that help you reduce stress, such as yoga, tai chi, or light aerobics, don’t put that much strain on the body!

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If you experience migraines, you know when one is about to occur. You feel the pain creep across your forehead or up the back of your neck. People have different triggers for migraines, and determining what your trigger is can be a big obstacle to overcome. Once you identify your trigger, you can do your best to avoid it and reduce the frequency of migraines. 

Not a lot of people suspect their diet to trigger migraines, but certain foods can easily cause your head pain. According to research, a variety of foods and beverages contribute to nausea, throbbing, pounding, and some visual symptoms of migraines. If you want to experiment with your diet to be free of migraines, consider eliminating the following foods, which have been known to set off pain. 

Alcohol

This is a beverage that’ll give you a headache whether you get migraines or not. An evening cocktail is relaxing while you casually sip it, but it can contribute to migraine tension. The Association of Migraine Disorders lists alcohol as one of the most common dietary triggers. There are certain compounds in alcohol, such as histamine and congeners, which may be to blame. Alcohol is also a diuretic, which can cause dehydration (another migraine trigger). Regardless of what the research says, it may be a good idea to avoid beer, wine, and spirits if alcohol is your trigger. 

Foods With Phenylalanine

What is this compound? Well, it is an essential amino acid that exists in myriad protein sources. You can find it in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and legumes. High doses of this amino acid have been linked to headaches, including migraines. Because phenylalanine exists in many healthy protein sources, avoiding it completely may prove difficult, not to mention a questionable decision for your overall health. Avoiding all foods that contain phenylalanine creates a highly restrictive eating pattern. If you suspect this to be your migraine trigger, just consider cutting down on these foods, or make sure that you don’t overeat them. 

Caffeine

Caffeine is a mixed bag for migraines. It is a common trigger food for migraines, but some people drink a cup of coffee or soda and know relief is on the way. Unfortunately, there is not a sufficient amount of research on this matter, so scientists cannot give a definitive recommendation on caffeine consumption or avoidance for migraine relief. That said, if you experience migraines and know that drinking caffeine negatively affects you, avoid it to the best of your ability. If you exceed 200 milligrams of caffeine daily and you suddenly stop drinking caffeine, you may experience a migraine as a withdrawal symptom. 

Food Intolerances

Occasionally, headaches can stem from certain food intolerances. According to research, migraines are very common in the setting of gluten, soy, and other food intolerances. If you have a food intolerance, be it to gluten, soy, or something else, you will usually experience symptoms within 12 to 24 hours after eating. 

Foods With Tyramine

If you have never heard of this compound, don’t be hard on yourself because you won’t see it on ingredient lists. It exists in both plant and animal foods and is a byproduct of the breakdown of tyrosine, an amino acid. Some people experience headaches from foods that contain tyramine, such as red wine, figs, aged cheese, and smoked fish. Whether or not you get a headache depends on how much of these foods you eat or drink, according to health experts. Preliminary research shows that people who are prescribed monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may experience migraines after eating tyramine-containing foods because of the chemical interaction that occurs.

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According to health experts, headaches and migraines have become two of the most common neurological conditions in the world. Even though they are common afflictions, dealing or coping with them isn’t any easier. Depending on the type of headache, it can range from mildly annoying to completely debilitating. 

When it comes to dealing with headaches, the first thing you have to identify is the trigger. The unfortunate reality is that there are so many potential causes, which means that figuring out why you have a headache may worsen your existing headache. Identifying the headache trigger does not have to be a complicated puzzle, or at least we don’t want it to be that way. For this reason, we will discuss highly common headache triggers and how to alleviate them in this article.

Stress

Stress and anxiety are among the most common headache triggers. When the body is under stress, muscles tense up and cause tension headaches. Too much stress can trigger the release of certain chemicals in the brain that can lead to migraines. Although people resort to over-the-counter headache medications, there are natural ways to deal with stress-related headaches. Ideally, find ways to reduce stress for example, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Consider finding an activity that you enjoy, like hiking, painting, or playing music. All of these things can help you unwind and reduce stress levels.

Lack of Sleep

Sleep deprived? Well, that is a common trigger for headaches, especially migraines. When you don’t get enough sleep, the chemicals in the brain can be out of balance, making you more susceptible to headache pain. If you experience headaches on a regular basis, try to establish a consistent sleep routine. That means that you aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Ideally, you avoid caffeine, alcohol, and screens before bed, and you keep your bedroom comfortable and cool. Studies show that a sleep environment that is about 68º F is ideal for sleeping.

Alcohol

People love to imbibe the social lubricant, more commonly known as alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol is not only a great way to dehydrate the body and harm the liver, but it can also trigger headaches. Alcohol can dehydrate the body, and dehydration leads to headache pain. Additionally, drinking alcohol can lead to changes in blood flow and blood sugar levels in the brain, both of which can cause headaches. If you’re prone to headaches, try your best to avoid alcohol altogether. If you do choose to imbibe, do so in moderation and try to drink at least one cup of water between alcoholic beverages.

Diet

As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” What you put in your body can either benefit your health or detract from it. Certain foods can help remedy headaches and nausea, while others can trigger those symptoms. Foods like cheese, chocolate, and processed meats contain harmful substances that can trigger migraines in certain people. If you skip meals or are new to intermittent fasting, you may experience headaches as well. In order to prevent food-related headache pain, try to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats. Additionally, try your best to eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day, and avoid skipping meals if possible.

Hormones

Hormonal imbalances or changes can cause headaches, particularly in women. Studies show that fluctuations in estrogen levels can trigger migraines in some women, most notably during menstruation or menopause. If you are a woman and want to reduce the risk of hormone-related headaches, you may want to consider hormone therapy or other treatments that work to regulate hormone levels. Some women also experience headache relief by avoiding certain foods or engaging in relaxation techniques. 

Environmental Triggers

Bright lights, strong smells, loud noises, and other environmental triggers can cause headaches. People who are sensitive to such environmental triggers may want to take precautions and avoid them whenever possible. If you are sensitive to bright lights, consider installing a dimmer switch or lower-wattage bulbs in your home to reduce brightness levels. Steer clear of household air fresheners, strong-scented candles, perfumes, or cigarette smoke. Lastly, wear noise-canceling headphones or earplugs if you are in a setting with loud noises.

Dehydration

As mentioned earlier in this article, dehydration can commonly cause headaches, especially tension headaches. When the body is dehydrated, the brain can contract and trigger headache pain. In order to prevent dehydration-related headaches, drink at least eight to 12 eight-ounce glasses of water every day. A better measurement for hydration is to drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water every day. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75 ounces of water per day. You can also eat water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to boost hydration levels.

There are many different headache triggers and each person’s triggers may be different. When you can identify your own triggers and find ways to remedy, manage, or avoid them, you can reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches. If you tend to experience headaches on a regular basis, consider speaking with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

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Is it safe to call this current generation the generation of the sit? We are not referring to the sit-down protests of the 1960s; rather, people just sit down a lot in their daily lives. Whether it be sitting at a desk, sitting in traffic, doom scrolling, or sitting to watch Netflix, sitting is all too common in this day and age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even notes that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. 

Inactivity isn’t the only thing that concerns health experts, though. Sitting for long periods is not great for your back or neck. Sitting for long periods of time can alter posture in the lumbar and thoracic spine areas, which include the vertebrae in the lower and middle parts of the spine. If the spine isn’t properly aligned, then you may also de-condition the muscles in the surrounding vertebrae.

Your posture also affects your mood or general outlook on life, according to certain medical centers. When you focus on improving your posture, you may improve your confidence and energy levels. Plus, you may reduce tension in the neck, relieve migraines, and prevent back and shoulder issues. So if you suffer from back pain or want to improve your posture, engage in the following workout that you can do every day.

Glute Bridge

Lie flat on your back with your knees bent, planting your feet on the floor about six inches from your buttocks. Keep your arms flat on the ground by your sides, and your fingertips should be able to touch your heels. Press your lower back into the floor and squeeze your glutes, pressing up through your heels to drive your hips up toward the ceiling. Aim to make a diagonal line from your knees to your chest, resisting the urge to arch your lower back. Maintain a neutral spine and roll your shoulders back. Hold this position for one to two seconds and then return to the starting position in a controlled manner. Complete a total of three sets of 10 reps. 

Shoulder Blade Squeeze

Stand up straight with your feet hip-distance apart, resting your arms by your sides. Without raising your shoulders, squeeze your shoulder blades together, aiming to bring them as close as you can without pain. Hold for five seconds and then release, which counts as one repetition. Complete a total of three sets of 10 reps.

Back Extension

You will need an exercise ball for this exercise. Lie over an exercise ball on your stomach, position yourself to rest your abdomen and hips on the ball. Extend your legs back behind you, placing your toes on the ground to maintain balance. Cross your arms across your chest, engage your glutes, and lift your chest as far up as possible. Make sure to keep your hips in contact with the ball throughout this movement. Return to the starting position and continue until you complete the set. Make sure to complete three sets of 10 reps. 

Plank

Begin in a tabletop position, stacking your shoulders over your wrists and hips over your knees. Lower yourself down to your elbows, place your forearms on the ground, and step your feet back to stand on your toes. This is a forearm plank and you should aim to maintain a straight line from your head to your heels. Resist the urge to sag your hips towards the ground; rather, engage your glutes and core. Press your forearms into the ground and squeeze your abdominals, drawing your belly button into your spine. Hold for 30 seconds and then rest, and then complete two more sets of 30-second holds. YOu can increase the time if you want to amp up the intensity. 

Single Leg Hold

Like flat on your back and bring your feet up into a tabletop position (90-degree), keeping your shins parallel to the ground. Drop your right leg down, keeping it bent as you place it on the floor. Press your palms on the middle of your left thigh and resist that force slightly by engaging your left quad and glute muscles. Hold for ten seconds and then release. Repeat on the other leg and then rest for 30 seconds. Complete three sets of 10-second holds for each leg.

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That hump at the base of the neck, which you commonly see in older adults, can result from osteoporosis or poor posture. Dowager’s hump, neck hump, text hump, or hunchback are common names for that excessive curve in the upper spine. Anyone can develop the condition, which is medically known as kyphosis, and it tends to result from forward-leaning posture, something that is all-too common in our technological society.

What Is Dowager’s Hump?

Dowager’s hump, or kyphosis, is a condition that is characterized by a spine that curves excessively forward. Although the spine has natural curves that help maintain posture, kyphosis makes standing up a challenge. In addition to the hump that results from this condition, you may also experience:

• Tight hamstrings
• Rounded shoulders
• Extreme fatigue
• Headaches or migraines
• Pain or stiffness in shoulder blades or upper back

Can You Reverse Dowager’s Hump?

Depending on your age and the severity, you can often improve or completely reverse a dowager’s hump. You can do this by strengthening your upper back and neck muscles, but various postures and stretches can also be beneficial. Early intervention and treatment is essential to combat the excessive curvature of the spine. Consider the following exercises to help reverse the hump. 

Shoulder Squeezes

This is a great exercise to do multiple times a day because it works to strengthen and straighten the upper back. Sit or stand up straight and try to relax your jaw and drop your shoulders. Direct your gaze out in front of you and remind yourself not to round your upper back. Draw your shoulder blades back, attempting to squeeze them together and hold this position for three to five seconds. Return to the starting position and then continue to repeat until you complete 10 repetitions. 

Chin Tucks

This exercise works to activate and strengthen the muscles along the front of the neck. Place two fingers at the bottom of your chin and gently tuck your chin in, retracting your head back. Use your fingers to guide your head back and keep your chin tucked throughout the exercise. Hold the retracted position for five seconds and then relax. Aim to complete three sets of 10 repetitions. 

Wall Angels

Wall angels work to create both strength and mobility in the upper back muscles, which can encourage better posture over time. Stand up straight with your back against a wall and arms by your side, ensuring that the back of your head touches the wall as well. Bring your arms out and up over your head until you look like a ref signaling a good field goal. Bring them back down by your sides and then continue until you complete 10 repetitions. It should feel like you are making snow angels against the wall. 

Bird Dog

Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position, stacking your shoulders over your wrists and hips over your knees. Contract your core as you raise your left arm up and reach it forward, aligning it with your back. Find your balance and then extend and raise your right leg behind you, aligning it with your back. Keep your weight centered and hold this position for about three seconds before returning to the starting position. Repeat on the other side and then continue alternating until you have completed 10 sequences (each side 10 times).

Mid Fly Back Exercise

This exercise works to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the upper back, making it easier to keep the neck properly aligned. Stand or sit up straight in a chair and plant your feet flat on the floor. Hold an exercise band in both hands and hold your arms out in front of you. Make sure there’s a little bit of slack in the band, and then pull your arms out to the sides, squeezing your shoulder blades. Slowly return to the starting position and then continue until you complete a total of 12-15 reps. 

Cat Cow

Working to improve mobility in the upper back, Cat Cow helps to maintain neutral posture and improve spinal flexibility. Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position, stacking your shoulders over your wrists and hips over your knees. On a big inhale, drop your stomach and arch your back as you look up. Exhale and round your back, dropping your head down. Alternate between these two positions in a controlled manner for about 30 seconds. Do one round in the morning and once at night.

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When you think of cupping, you probably imagine dark circles that resemble large bruises all over the skin. Even though it may look like the person lost a fight to an octopus, the bruises that result from cupping therapy can indicate healing. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) states that the ancient therapy of cupping was used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and general pain. 

There are two types of cupping: wet cupping and dry cupping. Both forms of this alternative therapy involve the creation of a vacuum within the cups either through heat or a suction device. With wet cupping, the practitioner lightly pierces the skin so that blood is drawn into the cup. Dry cupping doesn’t draw out any fluids. The suction pulls the skin up into the cups, breaking capillaries or blood vessels under the skin. That is why you see bruise-like circles after a cupping session. The body responds to the treatment as an injury, so it sends increased blood flow to accelerate the healing process.

Today, you can receive cupping from a variety of practitioners, including acupuncturists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists. And although it is an ancient healing modality, modern medicine continues to search for ways to understand its efficacy as a complementary treatment. Anecdotal reports and limited studies, however, support the following health benefits of cupping therapy. 

May Ease Headaches

Some research suggests that people who deal with chronic headaches or migraines may benefit from cupping therapy. A small study from 2019 observed 132 participants with migraines. The results found that those who received cupping therapy experienced significant reductions in pain intensity, compared to the controlled group who did not receive cupping. Another uncontrolled study observed 70 people with chronic tension or migraine headaches. The participants who received cupping therapy experienced a 66% reduction in headache severity. Plus, the total number of headaches they had per month decreased by 12.6 days. 

May Improve Mood 

People who receive regular cupping sessions report a variety of mental health benefits. Naturopathic doctors who practice cupping suggest that the therapy can help relieve stress, promote relaxation, and induce a sense of calm. All of those benefits may help improve sleep and improve overall mood. Although scientific research is limited, some evidence indicates that people with chronic fatigue syndrome who received cupping experienced a reduction in fatigue. A 2020 study confirmed that participants experienced better sleep and overall mood, both of which were more pronounced after 10 cupping sessions.

May Reduce Pain And Sore Muscles

A lot of athletes receive cupping to either help reduce sore muscles, accelerate recovery, or to reduce injury. You don’t have to be an athlete to receive cupping therapy, though. Some research indicates that cupping can help with muscle recovery. In fact, a small study from 2021 found that cupping was a great way to treat muscle fatigue 24 hours after participants worked out biceps and triceps. A larger review found that cupping therapy showed positive results on back pain, but research is still limited in this area. 

May Improve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

One study monitored 56 participants with carpal tunnel syndrome. Half of the group received routine physical therapy (which included electrical nerve stimulation and ultrasound) and the other half received that same routine treatment plus cupping in the wrist area. The group that received cupping experienced significant improvement in symptom severity. Additionally, another study observed 52 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and associated shoulder and neck pain. Half the group received wet cupping to the trapezius region and the other group only received heating pad treatment. Researchers noted that the cupping group reported less pain a week after their cupping session.

May Help Reduce Arthritis Pain

This is based on one primary study that compared the effects of cupping with the over-the-counter pain reliever, acetaminophen, in 20 participants with one osteoarthritis. One group received dry cupping for 11 sessions over a two-week period. The rest of the participants received 650 milligrams of acetaminophen three times a day for the same two-week period. The researchers noted that the cupping group had better results in terms of pain, swelling, tenderness, and morning stiffness, compared to the medication group.

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Some people experience pulsing sensations around their temples. Others are more familiar with a sharp or splitting pain in their forehead. There is the unfortunate stabbing sensation that hits you behind your eyes. All of these locations and pains mean different things, but have you ever wondered why they occur at those locations? 

Whether you wake up in pain or it happens over the course of your day, a headache is never enjoyable. You want it gone as quickly as possible, even if that means icing your neck, massaging your temples, or meditating with an essential oil diffuser. The location of the headache pain can give you some insight to the cause and the best way to treat it. Below, we detail five headache locations and the best way to help remedy them. 

A quick note: While most headaches are not dangerous, some may require medical attention, as they can be a sign of a more serious health issue. If you experience headache pain along with fever, confusion, fainting, loss of consciousness, weakness, imbalances, loss of vision, or speech impairments, seek medical care. 

Back Of Your Head And Neck

A headache that hangs around the back of your head may indicate a cervicogenic headache. A secondary headache for short, the pain of a cervicogenic headache doesn’t originate in the head; rather, it radiates up from the neck. These headaches tend to stem from neck problems or injuries, according to health experts. The pain usually starts from the base of your skull and radiates up one side of your head. The reason for this is because of the functional connectivity of pain sensitive structures in the head and neck regions. 

In order to fix this headache pain, health experts recommend physical therapy, especially if a past injury is the cause. Rehabbing your neck muscles, where the pain is rooted, can help reduce the risk of future cervicogenic headaches. Additionally, massaging the neck can help relieve muscle tension and may be beneficial for people with occipital neuralgia. 

Front Of Your Head And Face

Throbbing head and facial pain, such as pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead, often indicates a sinus headache. You can also experience nasal congestion and fatigue along with this type of headache. If you bend forward, the pain tends to increase. Because migraines manifest similar symptoms, it can be difficult to differentiate the two headaches. Roughly 90% of people who complain about sinus headaches are later diagnosed with migraines. Nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light are not linked to sinus headaches, but they are common with migraines. 

Sinus headaches usually occur in conjunction with the common cold, upper respiratory tract infections, or seasonal allergies. For this reason, treating those underlying symptoms can help resolve this type of headache pain. 

Around Your Whole Head

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a tight band squeezing your entire head. This is the typical description of a tension headache, which is commonly triggered by poor sleep and stress. Tension headaches are characterized by pressure and tightness around the entire head, and they often go hand in hand with tension in the neck, shoulders, and jaw. 

The most common way to treat tension headaches is by taking over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. However, if you don’t want to immediately resort to these medications, you can try some tension-relieving exercises. Getting quality sleep and learning to manage stress can also help you avoid them moving forward. 

Side Of Your Head

Many headaches can cause pain to occur on one side of the head, but this type of pain is most commonly associated with migraines. Migraines can cripple you, producing severe throbbing or pulsing unilateral head pain that can last for hours, days even. When you experience a migraine, you may also develop sensitivity to light and sound. Vomiting and nausea tend to accompany the head pain as well. 

To fix this type of pain, you should consult your doctor, especially if you experience migraines on a regular basis. Your doctor may be able to detail a proper treatment plan, which may involve medication and avoiding certain triggers.

In Your Temples

Migraine and tension headaches can cause pain in your temples. That said, pain in the temples can often be attributed to a rare condition known as temporal arteritis. Health experts explain that temporal arteritis occurs when blood vessels near the temples constrict and become inflamed. This health issue is more common in people over the age of 50. In addition to the throbbing sensation in your temples, it’s possible to experience fever, fatigue, jaw pain, vision problems, muscle aches in the upper arms, loss of appetite, and tenderness at the scalp or temples. 

If you have temporal arteritis, you have to treat it immediately. Doctors often prescribe steroids to counter the pain as quickly as possible. If you don’t treat temporal arteritis, it can worsen and lead to blindness and other complications.

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