The Mindful Migraine

Of all the activities that I have experimented with, Tai Chi has been one of the ones I have enjoyed the most. I now try to start every day with 15 minutes of Tai Chi movements. Whilst I began by following routines on You Tube, now I tend to use remembered moves (and a few made up ones) to stretch and flex my body in ways that I feel it needs it most that day. 

What is Tai Chi? Originating centuries ago in China as a martial art, it is a series of slow, fluid, movements, that are often named after animals (e.g. “white crane spreads its wings”), and strung together to create a long, series of movements, almost like a choreographed dance. Moves focus on the connection between mind and body, breathing and balance. Proper sessions can last up to an hour of pre-programmed moves, but I have also found shorter sessions online which better suit my level of experience and stamina. Because you are moving so slowly and concentrating on posture and breathing, it doesn’t seem to exacerbate migraine pain.

Benefits I have experienced from frequently doing Tai Chi’s ‘moving meditation’ include reduced tension in my neck and shoulders, improved posture and balance, increased strength and flexibility, deeper breathing and overall wellness. Because I am so mindful of how I hold my body now, I have felt my hip pain subside (I was looking at a potential hip replacement down the track, but the pain has reduced enough that it no longer seems urgent). 

In terms of migraines, I feel that the slow, purposeful moves have made me more patient and self-aware, which in turn has calmed my over-active brain. I highly recommend Tai Chi for migraines and look forward to finding classes in my area in the future.

Here are some links that I found helpful (Remember: always check with your doctor before trying anything active to make sure its suitable for your circumstances):

(3 mins) Learn what Qigong is. Learn to feel your Qi with Tai Chi week 1

(5-10 mins) Tai Chi 5 Minutes a Day Module 01 – Easy for Beginners – the Wave and Embracing the Moon – YouTube

(10 mins) 10 Simple Tai Chi Exercises in 10 Minutes – Daily Tai Chi for Beginners (youtube.com)

(12 mins) Do Tai Chi to Improve Balance Every Day | Gentle Stretches

(13 mins) Lotus Breathing Pattern (youtube.com)

(15 mins) 14 Minute Daily Tai Chi Routine – For Beginners (youtube.com)

Take care on your healing journey, Linda x

PS – I set up playlist on YouTube with all the videos in one place: The Mindful Migraine – YouTube