Understanding Headache - Tension

Mild to moderate head pain caused by muscle tension, stress, or poor posture—often described as a tight band around the head.

Tension headaches are among the most common headache types, presenting as dull, pressing pain around the head or temples. Stress, fatigue, and poor posture are common triggers. Acupressure can support stress relief, relax overworked muscles, and improve blood flow, helping to ease discomfort naturally.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Dull aching pain
  • Forehead pressure
  • Neck and shoulder tightness

Emotional Impact

  • Stress
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating

Primary Points for Headache - Tension

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Additional Support Points

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Tension Headache Relief (5-10 minutes)

Treatment Protocol

  1. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and close your eyes
  2. Take 5 slow, deep breaths to begin relaxation
  3. Press LI-4 (thumb-index web) for 1 minute each hand, then LR-3 (top of foot, between big toe and second toe)
  4. Gently massage EXT-2/GV-24.5 (between eyebrows) in small circles to calm mental tension
  5. For shoulder tension: add GB-21 (top of shoulders); for temple pain: add EXT-5 (temples)

Supporting Your Recovery

Lifestyle

  • Screen Breaks: Take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye and neck strain
  • Stress Reduction: Use calming acupressure and breathwork to release mental tension

Important

  • Sleep Hygiene: Poor sleep can exacerbate tension headaches
  • Track Triggers: Keep a journal to identify patterns in stress, diet, or posture