Headaches are one of the most common kinds of pain. It’s a throbbing sensation that can sometimes be unbearable. There is no single cause of headaches and remedies of getting rid of them can vary.

Most people tend to rely on medications to stop a headache. However, those who prefer to avoid medication can opt for natural remedies instead. One of the natural remedies that can help relieve headaches is the pencil technique.

What is the Pencil Technique?

The pencil technique is a simple yet effective exercise that helps relieve headaches without using medication. All you need is a pencil and a few minutes of your time.

How to Perform the Pencil Technique:

1. Sit in a comfortable position with your feet flat on the ground, and make sure you are in a quiet environment.

2. Hold a pencil between your teeth without biting down on it.

3. Now, breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose for around five seconds.

4. Then, exhale slowly through your mouth for about ten seconds.

5. Repeat the process for five minutes or until you start to feel better.

How Does the Pencil Technique Work?

When you hold the pencil between your teeth, you activate the muscles in your jaw and neck that tend to tense up during a headache.

By opening your mouth wide enough to hold the pencil, you relieve tension in those muscles, which can reduce or eliminate headaches caused by muscle tension.

Additionally, the breathing technique used in the pencil exercise helps you relax and reduces stress that causes headaches as well. The increased oxygen that comes with deep breathing further helps to alleviate any pain you might feel.

When to Use the Pencil Technique?

This technique can be used whenever you feel a headache starting or when it’s already at its peak. You can even use it to prevent a headache from happening if you feel a headache coming on.

It is especially useful for people who frequently suffer from tension headaches or migraines.

Other Natural Remedies for Headaches

While the pencil technique is a natural way to stop a headache, there are other remedies you can try as well. Here are some natural remedies you can use to ease a headache:.

1. Drink Water: Dehydration is one of the most common causes of headaches. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent headaches from happening.

2. Apply Heat or Cold: Depending on the type of headache you have, heat or cold treatment can help. Place a hot or cold compress on your forehead or neck for quick relief.

3. Exercise: Regular exercise can help relieve tension and reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

4. Massage: A massage can help relax your muscles and reduce tension which can trigger headaches.

5. Ginger Tea: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and is excellent for relieving headaches. Drinking ginger tea or using ginger essential oils can help reduce headaches.

Conclusion

If you suffer from headaches frequently, it can be difficult to go about your daily life. Rather than relying on medication, try the pencil technique. It is a simple, natural way to alleviate headaches quickly without any harmful side effects.

However, it’s important to note that if your headaches are persistent or severe, it’s important to seek medical attention.