Campus Commons Physical Therapy - June 2023

What do you do once you notice that a headache is rapidly approaching? For many, this is a time to turn to painkillers and rest. Sometimes this method works; other times, it doesn’t do enough, and the pain persists. It really depends on the type of headache. You might get relief if you’re experiencing a tension headache, but painkillers usually aren’t enough if you’re one of the 12% of American adults who regularly suffer from migraines. Migraines are incredibly debilitating and can knock you out of commission for hours if not days. This has left many Americans wondering how they can find relief. Thankfully, some gentle stretches can help reduce the pain of migraines. Stretching helps relax the body and mind, so the next time you experience a migraine, give one of the following stretches a try. MIGRAINE BE GONE!

STRETCHING TECHNIQUES TO EASE YOUR PAIN

your forehead on your legs and reach for your feet. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Repeat as needed.

CHILD’S POSE If you’ve ever participated in yoga, you’re probably already quite familiar with the child’s pose. For those unfamiliar, start by kneeling on the floor and spreading your knees wide apart. Make sure your toes are touching, and your butt is resting on your heels. Lengthen your spine and place your hands on your thighs. Lower your torso between your thighs with your hands reaching forward. Rest your hands on the floor and relax your muscles. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat as needed. DOWNWARD-FACING DOG This stretch helps circulate blood to your head, which can ease migraine pain. Start on all fours with your hands shoulder-width apart and

THE SEATED FORWARD FOLD Start this stretch by sitting down on the floor and straightening your legs in front of you. Point your toes upward and lengthen your spine. Bend forward from your hips, bringing your torso as close to your thighs as possible. If needed, you can

your knees hip-width apart. Press your hands and toes into the floor while raising your hips. Do not lock your knees! Lengthen your spine so that your body resembles an upside-down V. Keep your heels on the floor and hold for 30 seconds.

gently bend your knees for additional comfort. Place

TAKE A BREAK

Cherry Chia Greek Yogurt Bowls

Inspired by HungryHobby.net

Need a quick, healthy snack? Check out this protein-packed yogurt bowl.

INGREDIENTS Chia Seed Jam • 2 cups Chelan fresh sweet cherries, pitted • 3 tbsp chia seeds

Greek Yogurt Bowl • 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp hemp seeds • 1 tbsp granola

• 2 tbsp honey • 1/4 cup water

DIRECTIONS Chia Seed Jam We suggest making the chia seed jam in advance and storing it in the refrigerator so you can quickly assemble these yogurt bowls all week. Using a potato masher, mash down the cherries. Place a small pot on high heat and add the cherries, chia seeds, honey, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn down the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Allow jam to cool before using or refrigerate. Greek Yogurt Bowls In a small serving bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with vanilla extract. Top the Greek yogurt with 2 tbsp cherry chia seed jam, hemp seeds, granola, and a few additional Chelan fresh sweet cherries, if desired.

916-927-1333 3

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator