The tension headache, also called a muscle-contraction headache, is by far the most common form of headache. Unlike the migraine, the tension headache is described as a dull ache that encircles the head.

Although they’re not completely understood, tension headaches are linked to muscle tension in the head, neck, scalp, and face. They can be triggered by stress-related habits, such as teeth grinding, or by poor posture and fatigue. Sitting hunched over a desk with the head hanging forward of the shoulders can create a constant contraction of the muscles of the neck , upper back, and shoulders. Repetitive motion—like typing or using a computer mouse—can also result in chronic shoulder and neck tension that can lead to headache pain.

Not surprisingly, yoga can help to release tension and ease the symptoms of a headache. If you have a headache, or feel one coming on, skip the challenging asana practice and try out the postures below.

Yoga can help relieve headaches

PALMING: To relieve an aching head, rub your hands together until warm and then place them over the eyes. Breathe deeply and invite the eyes to soften and relax.

Sukhasana (Easy Pose)

Gentle poses soothe headache pain.

Neck rolls: Sit tall in Sukhasana. Moving with the breath, drop your right ear toward the right shoulder and roll your chin to your chest. From center, drop your left ear to your left shoulder, bring your head back up to center. Reverse, starting on the left side. Shoulder rolls: Lift the shoulders up and back on an inhalation; then, on the exhalation, move them down and forward. Then reverse the motion.

Garudasana (Eagle Pose)

In Savasana, count the breath or mentally recite a mantra, making your exhalation last twice as long as your inhalation.

Sitting tall in a chair or on your mat, inhale as you extend your arms out to the sides. Exhale into Eagle Pose, with the right arm on top. Inhale again as you extend your arms out to the sides. Exhale into Eagle Pose with the left arm on top. Repeat several times, moving with the breath.