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Natural Alternatives for Symptom Relief of Fibromyalgia & Perimenopause

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July 9, 2019 By Rebecca D. Dillon 2 Comments

Learn about the best vitamins and herbal supplements you can take for emotional & physical symptom relief of fibromyalgia & perimenopause for women over 40.

I sometimes like to refer to it as the “Princess and the Pea Complex.” Because there are days when a wrinkle on a sheet feels like a rock that’s dug into my skin and left a bruise behind. Days a tickle feels like a punch. Sometimes I even feel like I’ve pulled the muscles in my shoulders from simply pulling a shirt off over my head. And that pain lasts for days to weeks. When perimenopause rolled around, it all got worse. Pain and emotion become even more intertwined. I felt miserable all the time. And it wore on me.

Whether you have fibromyalgia or perimenopause – or even both! – there are natural remedies that offer significant relief. Keep reading to learn how more about how one affects the other. As well as the best supplements you can take to put you back on top and in charge of your physical and emotional health.

Finding Symptom Relief from Fibro & Perimenopause

I’ve been meaning to write this post for a while now. However, I was always afraid I’d leave something out. And considering how well these products work for me personally, I wanted to cover how beneficial they are in case they can help you as well. Juggling both fibromyalgia AND perimenopause in my forties has proven to be a challenge. However, as many of the natural supplements that reduce symptoms of perimenopause also help with my fibromyalgia, I decided to share them in a post together.

If suffer with chronic pain from fibromyalgia, you’ve likely found that stress and hormones are the two biggest contributing factors to fibro flare ups. And that’s why the same treatment I use for fibro works so well for both the symptom relief of fibromyalgia and perimenopause.

You may recall my post from last year in which I covered the supplements I using then to manage my fibromyalgia. However, this is a revised list of vitamins and supplements that not only work better at providing symptom relief of fibromyalgia pain, fatigue and fibro fog, but also help with perimenopausal symptoms.

Why You Shouldn’t Take Painkillers for Fibromyalgia

There is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, from personal experience, I quickly realized that opioid (and synthetic opioid) painkillers are one of the worst treatments. Not only do they worsen fibro pain over time, they also lead to addiction. With that, in addition to the pain caused by fibromyalgia, you’ll also quickly start to experience withdrawal symptoms as the time for your next dose nears.

Unfortunately, my experience has shown me that doctors just do not know how to treat fibromyalgia symptoms. Aside from recommending SSRI drugs or drugs used to treat nerve pain such as gabapentin – both of which can cause considerable unhealthy weight gain – as well as painkillers and muscle relaxers, there really are no other prescription treatment options.

The Cost of Natural Remedies Vs. Prescription Drugs

It’s also unfortunate that herbal supplements are nowhere near as cheap as generic prescription drugs. However, when those drugs do more harm than good over time, you really have to consider your priorities. Do you find a way to give your body what it needs to be healthy? Or do you spend less to mask the symptoms of your illness?

Therefore, I made the choice to put my health first. I work my butt off – and go without things – to afford my vitamin and herbal supplement regimen. Without them, I can’t function normally. Which in turn means I’m unable to work. While I still have days that challenge me, I now feel better overall. And my focus is sharper than it has been in the past.

Working to discover an affordable supplement regimen to ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia has been a challenge. However, I have learned a lot throughout the process. You really need to try natural supplements for at least three to four months before giving up on them. I found this especially true for (THC free) CBD oil. (For fibromyalgia I recommend medical grade CBD oil if your state offers medical marijuana which is more powerful and more cost effective.) While other supplements, like those I take for perimenopausal hot flashes and mood, require a 90-day minimum before they start working.

An investment of time and money is required to find the right solution to help ease your symptoms. So some patience is required before throwing in the towel.

The Emotional Monkey Wrench: Perimenopause

Treating my fibromyalgia symptoms has become more trying since I developed perimenopause. The symptoms of fibro, when combined with my body’s changes from perimenopause, has been an incredible challenge.

I’ve been struggling with perimenopause for several years now. Much of that time, I really didn’t know that I had perimenopause. (No one talks about it!) When coupled with the fibromyalgia, the symptoms of perimenopause left my body in a whirlwood. I’d have weeks where I felt okay. Then other times I felt like the world just dropped out from under me.

Not knowing I was going through perimenopause, I didn’t really understand why I was having mood swings. Or that my hot flashes were hot flashes. Why I couldn’t sleep or why I was having night sweats. No one ever talked to me about it.

I finally gained some insight into the mystery toward the end of last year. My 44th birthday was just around the corner, and an understanding (finally!) of why my body (and brain) were acting the way they were, gave me the insight I needed to take control of body – and mental health – back.

Natural Support for Symptom Relief of Fibromyalgia & Perimenopause

I’ve since taken a second look at my health and the supplements I take to stay healthy and support emotional wellness. The cost of vitamins and supplements, however, was and continues to be a factor. So, for a time, I was constantly tweaking strategies and looking for the best natural alternative that worked for both the perimenopause AND the fibromyalgia – at a price I could manage. After many many months, I think I finally found it.

Everyday Tips for Better Mental Health & Pain Relief

Before I share my vitamin and herbal supplement regimen with you, however, I first want to share a few tips to give you days a positive boost.

Exercise. Whether walking for heart health or doing yoga to build muscle strength, both of these activities naturally boost serotonin in the brain, increase energy and help to reduce pain caused by fibromyalgia.
Nutrition. Cutting processed foods, sugar and other foods from your diet that cause inflammation will help your body feel better and can also reduce bloating.
Meditation. Meditation or mindful breathing exercises are an easy, cost free way to reduce stress that triggers and worsens symptoms.
Nutritional and herbal supplements. As we age, our bodies lose vital vitamins and minerals. Supplements are an easy way to replenish things like D3, B-vitamins and magnesium. While GLA and herbs can support perimenopause relief, reduce inflammation and boost mood.

For more ways on dealing with chronic pain, I also recommend these tips from the American Psychological Association. They include managing stress, constructive positive thinking, staying actively engaged socially and seeking out additional support. I also like these easy ideas for “exercise snacks” throughout the day.

Turning to Herbal Supplements for Symptom Relief of Fibromyalgia & Perimenopause

It’s important to remember that herbal remedies can take up to 3 months to start working and see benefits. Therefore, starting and stopping prior to that is a disservice to both your health and your pocketbook. So be sure you’re ready to commit to the time and cost of discovering the best solutions for symptom relief of fibromyalgia and/or perimenopause. It’s also important to note that herbal supplements may interact with medications you may be taking. Therefore, as with all herbal supplements, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements so you are aware of possible interactions and symptoms.

Following is a list of the herbal supplements and vitamins that I take daily, why I take them and how they help.

SAM-E Complete

S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) is a naturally occuring compound in our bodies that helps produce and regulate hormones as well as maintain cell membranes. As we age, the amount of SAMe our body produce decreases. Fortunately, we can replenish those lower levels in the same way we replenish low levels of other vitamins and minerals.

While there is no naturally occuring form of SAMe outside of our own bodies, thanks to modern science there is a synthetic version available that works the very same way. A clinically researched supplement, SAMe supports a healthy mood and offers joint comfort. Studies have shown that SAMe can help with depression, is beneficial for people with liver disease and helps with symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Here’s why SAMe is my #1 recommendation for symptom relief of fibromyalgia and perimenopause.

As women we are more prone to developing osteoarthritis as we age. SAMe offers similar pain relief and improvement in joint function as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This can also help with fibromyalgia pain.
When I was taking celexa – an SSRI drug that reduces anxiety and boosts mood – my fibromyalgia pain was significantly reduced. However, I did experience a number of side effects. These included simply not giving a shit, lack of judgment and poor impulse control, and weight gain. SAMe has tackled my anxiety and in turn helped with stress levels and pain without any of those side effects. This reduction of anxiety and stress has in turn has also relieved my tension headaches, conquered my recurrent TMJ and helped with depression and better stress management.
As you experience spikes and sharp drops in serotonin as hormone levels change throughout perimenopause, you also experience drastic shifts in mood. These include those “crazy mood swings” as well as depression. To treat this, my gynecologist actually recommended I take an SSRI drug for symptom relief. Since I’ve been there and done that, I decided to try SAMe instead. It does everything an SSRI drug does and more.
While SAMe boosts serotonin in your brain and acts like an SSRI drug, there are none of the unwanted side effects that come with taking a prescription SSRI medication.

Unfortunately, if you have ever had serotonin syndrome, you can’t take SAMe. Otherwise, I recommend 800mg of Nature Made SAM-e Complete daily for symptom relief of fibromyalgia. If you don’t have fibromyalgia, and simply need emotional support for perimenopause, I recommend starting at 200mg per day then increasing your dose to 400mg (on up to 800mg if needed or to treat fibro symptoms) after two weeks at the initial dose.

New Chapter Every Woman’s 40+ One Daily Multi

As many of tend to be deficient in necessary vitamins and minerals as we age, a multivitamin is a must. New Chapter Every Woman’s 40+ One Daily Multi is my by far my favorite vitamin. (This from the girl who used to take two chewable Flintstones +Iron a day.) Specially formulated for women in their 40s, this multivitamin not only offers necessary vitamins and minerals, it also offer bone, energy, stress and hormone support.

This #1-selling fermented multivitamin brand, this clean, whole-food fermented multivitamin delivers superfoods like ginger, organic turmeric & fenugreek and is made with certified organic vegetables and herbs. Many of the key ingredients I find especially beneficial not just for nutritional support but also for symptom relief of fibromyalgia and perimenopause.

Because this vitamin contains D3, it not only helps support bone health, but it also can help with pain. Low levels of D3 are linked to higher levels of pain. When I was first diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I had extremely low levels of vitamin D. In turn, my mother’s arthritis had grown increasingly worse about two years back. She too, had low levels of vitamin D as well as low bone density that can lead to osteoporosis.

This multivitamin also contains B6. The mineral B6 offers a number of health benefits that are backed by science. It can help to improve mood, promote brain health, aid in hemoglobin production to reduce symptoms of anemia, minimize the risk of heart disease, promote eye health and decrease inflammation caused by arthritis.

When combined with magnesium, B6 can help reduce symptoms of PMS including mood swings, irritability and anxiety. It’s also been show that low levels of B6 in older women can double our risk of depression. Therefore, by maintaining healthy B6 levels, it’s possible it can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression associated with both perimenopause and fibromyalgia. (You can learn more about vitamin B6 here.)

This multivitamin also contains schizandra berry, maca root and chamomile for energy and stress support. While a natural herbal blend with chaste tree berry, red clover flower and raspberry leaf offers hormone support that I found help ease hot flashes and night sweats.

If you aren’t yet 40, you can try New Chapter Every Woman’s One Daily Multi. Or they also offer a women’s multivitamin for 55+.

Estroven

When I finally figured out I was going through “the change” (and WTF do you mean perimenopause can last up to 7 years?!) I knew I did not want to take hormone supplements. My mom actually got cervical cancer from taking hormone pills that were over prescribed for a period of 15 years. And I have a friend who developed breast cancer when she turned 40. As it turned out my gynecologist actually suggested I try herbal remedies for perimenopause relief before I even considered hormone treatment.

Estroven is common, over-the-counter product for natural menopause relief. It contains clinically proven soy isoflavones for hot flash relief and increased energy as well as twice as much as black cohosh as other leading brands. In addition, it also contains magnolia bark which helps you manage stress, offers relief from menopausal anxiety and aids with digestion. However, you do have to take this product for three months to notice a difference.

I FINALLY passed that 3-month mark of taking Estroven for it to work. And while my daily New Chapter multivitamin helped with hot flashes and night sweats, this product significantly reduced hormone fueled food cravings, reduced bloating, helped with irritability and mood swings and provided additional support for hot flashes and night sweats. As I take Estroven Maximum Strength + Energy, this product also helps with fatigue caused by both the perimenopause and the fibromyalgia.

While I don’t recommend this product if you aren’t going through perimenopause, it does help with the hormone changes that often cause fibro flare ups. (Just as a side note I did take the New Chapter Every Woman’s 40+ One Daily Multi for several months prior to starting this product. I did not start them at the same time.)

Evening Primrose with 10% GLA

Evening primrose oil is a fatty acid that also offers hormone support. This cold pressed oil is comprised of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid that our bodies use to to produce eicosanoids, known as “local hormones.” Additionally, evening primrose also supports skin health and offers immune support. It’s taken for a variety of health concerns including eczema and psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, diabetic nerve damage and chronic fatigue, acne, PMS, breast pain, endometriosis and hot flashes and hot flushes cause by perimenopause.

Studies show that the GLA found in evening primrose oil not only reduces hot flashes, it can also improve heart health and reduce blood pressure. Additionally, older research has indicated that the linolenic acid in evening primrose can also ease symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, such as tingling and weakness caused by diabetes. In turn it’s possible it can also help with the pain symptoms and weakness you experience with fibromyalgia.

I am one of those unlucky people that experiences not hot flashes, but hot flushes. Similar to a hot flash in that there’s a sudden feeling of heat that spreads throughout the body, with hot flushes you also experience sweating, palpitations and flushing of the face. It’s not fun. Evening primrose really helped with my own hot flushes when I first started taking it prior to my use of Estroven. I recommend taking Nature’s Way EfaGold Evening Primrose with 10% GLA twice daily in addition to your daily multivitamin for additional hormone support if you are allergic to the soy Estroven. You can learn more about hot flushes here.

Irwin Naturals Sunny Mood

Anxiety, tension and pain are my jam where fibromyalgia is concerned. However, Irwin Naturals Sunny Mood helps to further reduce my anxiety even in those uncomfortable social situations. This unique blend contains D3 and magnesium along with fish oil (DHA), rhodiola extract, L-Theanine, lemon balm and passionflower. Brought together, this combination of adaptogenic botanicals, soothing nerve relaxants and harmonizing nutrients help to maintain mental balance during times of heightened emotional stress. This supplement if perfect for anyone with temporary depressed mood, occasional anxiety, emotional reactivity, temporary stress-related exhaustion and mental fatigue. ie. All the symptoms of fibromyalgia and perimenopause.

Sunny Mood can be taken either as needed or for daily maintenance depending on your emotional health needs.

While I already covered the benefits of D3 and magnesium, here’s a brief overview of the other ingredients, which were actually recommended by my licensed holistic therapist for symptom relief of fibromyalgia.

An omega-3 fatty acid, DHA is linked to improved heart health, better vision, and reduced inflammatory response. Studies also show that it can help with ADHD symptoms, improve focus and help protect against depression.
Like CBD oil, Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb. In short, adaptogens are herbal supplements that have to the ability to help stabilize physiological processes and promote homeostasis. As such, Rhodiola extract specifically promotes overall physical and emotional wellbeing by reducing stress, combating fatigue, increase mental performance and improving physical and mental fitness.
L-Theanine is an amino acid that is naturally found in both green and black tea that naturally improves mental focus and cognitive performance as well as contribute to relaxation and improve sleep quality. It’s believed that L-theanine affects the levels of certain chemicals in the brain including serotonin and dopamine. Both of which influence mood, sleep and emotion. Additionally, it also affects cortisol which helps the body deal with stress.
Lemon balm is common culinary herb that’s often used in traditional medicine to treat both anxiety and insomnia. Also popular as an essential oil, lemon balm essential oil is used in aromatherapy to promote calmness and ease stress.
Like lemon balm, passionflower is another herb traditionally used to relieve symptoms of anxiety and insomnia in addition to certain forms of pain. While there are several types of passionflower, only the variety known as Passiflora incarnata, is used medicinally. This strain in particular increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (or GABA) in the brain – a chemical the brain makes to help regulate mood. As GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, it counters the neurotransmitters that cause excitement, which in turn can provide a calming effect.

Sleep Supplements

As both fibromyalgia and perimenopause can result in trouble sleeping, I often have to take something to help me rest. Otherwise I not only have trouble falling asleep, I literally wake up every two hours. While melatonin does help to an extent, I’ve found it works best when used in conjunction with an herbal supplement.

Currently I’m taking a store brand herbal supplement from Earth Fare. It combines 6 mg of melatonin with a blend of valerian root, hops strobiles, skullcap, passionflower and California poppy. I simply take two capsules about a half hour before I’m ready to go to bed to help promote rest and relaxation. If you don’t have an Earth Fare near you, you can easily find a similar herbal supplement across other health and wellness brands.

Otherwise, an essential oil blend comprised of 3 drops vetiver essential oil, 2 drops lavender essential oil and 2 drops ylang ylang essential oil in an essential oil diffuser at bedtime helps with insomnia and other general sleep issues. (If you’d like to learn how to get started using essential oils, be sure to check out my article on essential oils for home, health and beauty.)

Do you struggle with fibromyalgia, perimenopause – or even both as I do? I’d love to hear your thoughts on natural supplements you use for symptom relief of fibromyalgia and perimenopause that have worked for you! After all. Everyone is unique in their own body chemistry. And helping one another find solutions to live our best lives through the exchange of information is what it’s all about.

For more natural health and wellness alternatives to incorporate into every aspect of your life, be sure to visit my natural health and wellness Pinterest board.

You can also find me on your favorite social media platforms including Blog Lovin‘, facebook, twitter and instagram. Or sign up to receive my newsletter to stay in the loop.

This article is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice and is provided for informational purposes only. Information on products mentioned are based on my own personal experience and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Please consult a physician prior to making any changes that may impact your health.

Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: adaptogens, emotional health, fibromyalgia, health and wellness, healthy, healthy living, herbal supplements, natural alternative, pain relief, perimenopause, vitamins

The 12 Best Outdoor Activities To Enjoy This Fall

September 8, 2018 By Rebecca D. Dillon

This post is sponosored by Wiivv. All opinions are my own.

Whether I’m adventuring in the wilderness or engaging in urban exploration this fall, my new Wiivv custom insoles are making every step even better. So you don’t feel left out, I’ve put together a collection of the 12 best outdoor activities for fall. These activities are perfect for bringing friends and family together – even if you’re an empty nester like I am. (Not to mention you’ll have some pretty instagram worthy adventures to share.)

I suffer from fibromyalgia. This means more than my fair share of painful days. However, one of the best natural treatments for tackling fibromyalgia pain is to stay active. Therefore, comfortable shoes are a must. Unfortunately, due to both my body’s limitations as well as a low arch, even walking can sometimes be painful. With Wiivv’s custom insoles, my feet are pain free after a walk on the greenway or a hike up my favorites trails. I also no longer have to sacrifice style for comfort when I want to spend a night out dancing to one of my favorite local bands.

I can’t even imagine if I had to be on my feet all day for work without my Wiivv insoles! (Especially since my favorite shoes are busted, stained and have literally no arch support.) They make such a big difference. I highly recommend them for anyone who’s been experiencing foot pain. They’re perfect for shoes with no support, new shoes that haven’t been broken in yet and old shoes in which the insoles are completely worn out. Because they are 3-D printed to fit your feet, you always get a perfect fit.

Lucky for me, my hometown of Roanoke, VA has made a LOT of progress over the past decade to make our city more friendly for foot traffic. They’ve invested in both a greenway and our river. They have built boat access docks for kayaking as well as bike rental stations throughout the downtown area. Because Roanoke is nestled in the valley and surrounded by the Blue Ridge mountains, hiking and camping trips are super convenient. We also have quite a few wineries in the surrounding area, including one on our very own mountain top.

If you don’t live in an adventure filled locale, don’t worry. Sometimes it’s just a matter of putting on your thinking cap and coming up with creative solutions. Or take a day trip to somewhere close by and really make those fall memories that you’ll remember for years to come.

With the weather finally starting to cool down from a stifling summer, fall is the perfect time to slip your sole insoles into your favorite hiking shoes. Or try Wiivv’s custom sandals, made to fit your feet, for comfortable walks around town and down by the river. Following are some of my favorite outdoor activities for fall. However, I’d love for you to share your own favorite outdoor activities for fall in the comments!

Fun Outdoor Activities for Fall

Go on a bike ride.

While mountain biking is totally plausible in my area, a simple leisurely bike ride on the greenway or around downtown Roanoke is the perfect outdoor fall activity for the entire family. There are 30 miles of urban trails that connect to scenic nature spots, charming neighborhoods and our bustling downtown area.

If you don’t own a bicycle, check to see if your local bike shop rents bikes by the hour. Or look into areas that offer bike sharing. Zagster is a bike share network lets you rent bicycles from any of their convenient pick up and drop off locations by the hour or through a monthly membership.

Go on a picnic.

Picnics also make great outdoor activities for fall. You can live pretty much anywhere and plan a fall picnic. However, my favorite picnic spot is one of our local wineries, Vahalla. Not only can my friends and I enjoy a wine a tasting at this winery, they also offer seating and picnic tables. So you can buy a bottle of wine and enjoy it outside with your own picnic lunch!

I love the view from the top of the mountain at this winery. And that there are fewer insects in the fall makes the event even more enjoyable. There are wineries all over the United States. So even if you don’t have a winery in your city, there’s a good chance you can find one close by – or at least within an hour or so of your home.

Take a trip to the zoo.

It was a complete surprise to me that one of my most favorite outdoor activities for fall would be a trip to the zoo. Because zoos are just for kids, right? Wrong. Our local zoo, Mill Mountain Zoo, runs fundraising activities for adults throughout the year. A worthy cause, the money goes to support animals that are unable to be released back into the wild as well as to support breeding programs for animals at high risk for extinction.

They also do a lot of educational work with local schools – something that my roommate, Bambi, is in charge of. I think her favorite part of her outreach however, is taking animals to visit residents at our local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Some of their regular fundraising events include a monthly Breakfast with the Animals and their semi-regular event, Brew at the Zoo.

Brew at the Zoo is probably my favorite event that I’ve attended. Not only is there live acoustic music (I can dance FOREVER with my new Wiivv insoles) but there’s also beer from local breweries and a food truck. This fall they are also hosting their annual Zoo Boo fundraiser. This family friendly event offers trick-or-treating for kids and costume contests as well as performances and “spooktacular” art activities – all outdoors!

If you have a zoo close by, I highly encourage you to check out their events page. It’s a safe bet they offer a variety of adult themed, outdoor activities for fall that allow you not only to socialize, but will make you feel like a kid again!

Go hiking.

I grew up hiking with my family from a young age. So it has always been another of my favorite outdoor activities for fall. However, since being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, it’s not always something my body will let me do. So when I hike, I tend to stick to the easier trails that are under four miles round trip.

Living by the mountains we have hiking trails everywhere! One of which is just a short 20 minute drive down the road. Nestled within a residential neighborhood, Read Mountain Preserve offers several trail options. My favorite of which is the Buzzards Rock lookout.

I fully admit that I’ve started up this mountain and had to turn around not even a quarter of the way up as the my body wouldn’t cooperate. However, I was able to make this hike last weekend. Reaching the top of that mountain was exhausting, but incredibly amazing. My Wiivv insoles really helped on this hike. And those shin splints I usually get after my first hike of the year, were almost nonexistent this go around.

As my boyfriend, Greg, only just moved to Roanoke last December, it was his first time on this trail. So it was quite the adventure for both of us. I also love hiking up Cascade Falls which is located just outside of Blacksburg, the home of Virginia Tech.

Go on a nature walk.

You don’t have to live anywhere in particular to take a nature walk. You can simply explore your local neighborhood and forage for acorns or pinecones to take home and use as part of your fall decor. Or take photographs of the different fall leaves to look up what kinds of trees are in your area as an educational experience for the family.

We actually have a wonderful local artisan from Floyd, VA who hunts for fabulous fungi that she later dries and uses to make unique one-of-a-kind jewelry for her small business, Woodland Wonders.

Go river tubing.

Tubing on the river is fun in the summer, but it’s glorious in the fall. As I’m fair skinned I burn like mad if I’m anywhere near water during the summer – even with SPF 50. So I actually enjoy river tubing as one of my favorite outdoor activities for fall. Not only do I not have to contend with the heat, but there’s also less of chance I’m going to look like a lobster by the end of the trip.

Go kayaking.

If floating lazily down the river isn’t really your speed, consider kayaking instead. The 45-mile Roanoke River Blueway is a water trail that offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, tubing and wading – all while taking in the local wildlife. This waterway passes through and around Roanoke, Virginia and its surrounding counties. The Roanoke River has 17 public access points, some of which also offer picnic areas and playgrounds.

Visit your local farmer’s market.

Another one of my favorite outdoor activities for fall is visiting the Historic Roanoke City Market on Saturday mornings. The walk through the market is always enjoyable. In addition to seasonal plants, fruits and vegetables that can be found at our market, there are also some pretty amazing artisans that sell their handmade soaps, pottery, stained glass, jewelry and photographs. I can’t think of a better way to spend a shopping trip than with a mix of an outdoor walk and pleasant conversations from fellow crafters.

Take a walking tour of your area’s local art galleries.

Roanoke is lucky enough that we have quite a few art galleries located downtown. All of the galleries are within walking distance of one another. On the first Friday of each month, all of the galleries participate in an event coined Art By Night. The local art galleries stay open late for this free event so those who work during the day have the chance to attend.

I love walking to and visiting each of the galleries in our downtown urban spaces and seeing new works by local artists. Many of the galleries also offer free hors d’oeuvres and wine. Which, I’m not gonna lie, makes the event even more enjoyable.

Hunt for river rocks.

Another one of my favorite outdoor activities for fall is rock hunting. This past summer Greg and I spent a lot of time at a local park doing just that. This park, in particular, has several easy hiking trails as well as a creek running through it. (My mom would bring me to this park when I was little and I used to bring home crawdads I’d find in the creek.) So we had a great time exploring the creek for the length of the park and collecting rocks that we took home to paint later.

I’ll admit, I got super excited when Greg and I found a painted art rock someone had hid along the greenway this summer. So, of course, that inspired me to paint and hide rocks as well. Unfortunately we’ve not had any fruitful finds on our hunts since, but we really enjoy the process of finding, painting and hiding our rocks nonetheless.

Jasper also accompanied us on a few of our adventures. Unfortunately he was not as interested in the water as we were. And being that he has short, stubby little legs, I can understand him not really getting into traipsing through a creek that left his belly soaking wet. We did spot a crawdad on one such trip. It was so large it almost looked like a lobster. Jasper, being the grumpy little man that he is, was even less interested in the crawdads. But I think deep down he secretly enjoyed the park regardless.

Attend an outdoor Halloween inspired event.

Halloween means even more fun outdoor activities for fall. While walking through a haunted house is never really on my bucket list (I was terrified by someone grabbing my ankle in a haunted house when I was four) most localities plan extra events centered around this holiday.

While we don’t have a local amusement park to celebrate Halloween outdoors, we do have mini golf. Yep, mini golf. This October, the Explore Park in Roanoke County is hosting its first ever Haunted Woods Mini Golf event for Halloween. This event will feature 18-holes of miniature golf accented with ghouls, goblins and frightening decor. While the glow-in-the-dark golf balls will help you on your journey along the way. So be sure to check out your city’s local government or event page to find out what’s happening in your community this Halloween.

Attend a fall festival.

Fall festivals always top my list of favorite outdoor activities for fall. I alway enjoy our local Harvest Festival on the Roanoke City Market. However there also events at local farms where you can enjoy hayrides and corn mazes. Or swing by a local fall wine or beer festival to enjoy a tasting of the latest seasonally inspired brews.

Our annual Go Outside! Festival (or GO Fest for short) in Roanoke encourages people to spend more time outdoors with activities like on-site camping, a BMX stunt show and live music events. There’s also a air flying dog show that’s always fun to watch. Or you can learn about wilderness first aid or play a round of air golf.

There are so many great outdoor activities to enjoy this fall, it’s hard to pick just one. So why not try them all? (Just don’t forget to take your Wiivv custom insoles or sandals along with you on your journeys!)

What are some of your favorite outdoor activities for fall in your area? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!

Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: activities, adventure, exercise, fall, fibromyalgia, health and wellness, healthy, healthy living, hiking, insoles, journey, outdoors

My Daily Supplement Regimen for Managing Fibromyalgia Naturally (Without Prescription Medications)

September 5, 2018 By Rebecca D. Dillon

Learn how to naturally manage fibromyalgia symptoms with herbal supplements to prevent and reduce pain without prescription medications.

Life is a journey, as they say. However, if you live with a chronic illness, that illness is an entirely separate journey in itself. And like all journeys, this journey has turns we can never predict. Answers we might not ever find. It’s when you learn how to manage your chronic illness that you’re able to take the reins and curb your journey into more positive results.

Living with Fibromyalgia

Hi, my name is Rebecca. You can’t tell by looking at me, but I have a chronic illness. I have fibromyalgia.

While I have fibromyalgia, I consider myself lucky. My brother, Aaron, has lupus. His autoimmune disease, which attacks his organs, could kill him. Mine will not.

In the beginning, I had days where my pain was so excruciating I would have done almost anything to make the pain stop. And that is how my journey with fibromyalgia began. It started with unending pain that plateaued in the evening to become unbearable by nightfall. I remember waiting for hours in the emergency room hoping for answers. I didn’t want drugs. I wanted to know what was wrong with me. How could I fix it? What could I do to get my life back?

As part of my journey to relieve the pain, that there was no medical answer for, I discovered something else. That discovery was wellness.

For years I’d been plagued by gut issues that I never even realized were a problem. That is, until they were. So when I was diagnosed with fibro, I took the route my physician gave me. One that included pain killers, muscle relaxers and off-label use of anti-seizure drugs.

I didn’t get better. In fact, while the drugs offered relief while I was on them, my symptoms actually got worse. I also became addicted to the pain killers I was prescribed. So as they wore off, I’d have increasing pain in addition to symptoms of withdrawal. Not a fun combo.

Making Changes to Naturally Treat Fibromyalgia

So I came off of the drugs. (Which was not fun.) The aftermath including enduring several months of hell, but I did it. I followed the withdrawal (because I’m a F-ing masochist and went cold turkey) with steps to repair my gut health.

I learned to love kombucha and developed a taste for apple cider vinegar. I started eating things that had been pickled and fermented. I added superfoods to my diet and dark, leafy vegetables. Overall, I treated my fibromyalgia like something else entirely. I approached my illness the way a nutritionist would and I treated it like leaky gut syndrome.

As part of my process there was a lot of trial and error. I discovered that switching to an aluminum free, natural deodorant really made a difference. I learned that processed foods made me sluggish and left me in a fog. I found out that stress triggered a physical response that caused my brain to respond with pain. I also learned that hormone changes suck extra hard if you have fibro.

Once I improved my gut health, I started trying different supplements to manage the remaining symptoms. The following supplements are the ones I finally settled on to treat and prevent the symptoms of my fibromyalgia, drug free, and that I am still currently taking.

Natural Supplements for Managing Fibromyalgia Symptoms

New Chapter Zyflamend Whole Body

Packed with inflammation busting ingredients like turmeric and ginger, this natural whole body supplement also contains skullcap which I’ve found not only helps to calm anxiety, but overactive muscles as well. This proprietary 10-herb blend is 100% vegetarian and non-GMO certified and also contains other wellness boosters from around the world including Chinese Goldthread, Hu Zhang, barberry, oregano, rosemary, green tea and holy basil. (Where to buy it.)

Lovebug Here’s the Skinny Daily Probiotic

In addition to pain, fibro makes you SOOO tired. This probiotic – and I’ve tried a LOT of them – not only helps keep my gut in check, but it also helps with energy levels. Like most probiotics, Here’s the Skinny works to improve your digestive health.

It contains 8 targeted probiotic strains that work in tandem to aid with digestion, work to reboot your metabolism and help to elevate energy levels and mood. While this helps to combat unwanted digestive issues like bloating, constipation and leaky gut, Here’s the Skinny also includes prebiotics – a natural fiber that feeds the probiotics! (Where to buy it.)

Ancient Apothecary Fermented Multi Mushroom Complex

Packed with powerful adaptogens, this mushroom complex helps to boost your body’s immune defense and fight the effects of stress and anxiety. It also helps to naturally increase increase energy levels, reduce fatigue and promote a healthy mood.

This full-spectrum fermented mushroom complex contains Turkey Tail, Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Maitake mushrooms in addition to a fermented warming botanical blend (that includes ginger and black pepper,) organic ashwagandha extract and an organic fermented bitter botanical blend (with milk thistle and dandelion.) (Where to buy it.)

Hemp Fusion Stress Full-Spectrum Phytocomplex

Like the fermented mushroom complex, this hemp based supplement also contains ashwagandha extract which helps to promote a healthy stress response. HempFusion Stress features Sensoril™, a clinically studied and patented form of Ashwagandha, which has been demonstrated to possess potent stress-reducing and mood supporting properties.

This natural supplement also contains a unique full-spectrum phytocomplex oil extracted from nutritional hemp, black pepper fruit and clove oil for those seeking occasional stress support in addition to daily Endocannabinoid System support. (Where to buy it.)

Thrive Market Vitamin B-Complex Food Cultured

Another natural energy booster, this B-Complex is a group of eight essential vitamins designed to help your body convert the food you eat into energy. Sourced and cultured from whole food ingredients like organic spinach and turmeric, along with other specialized blends, this supplement also contains ginseng to help get your body moving without that extra cup of coffee. (Where to buy it.)

Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3 25 mcg (1000 IU Rapid Release Soft Gels)

Vitamin D is a MUST for anyone with fibromyalgia as well as women over 40. When I was first diagnosed with fibromyalgia I had extremely low levels of vitamin D which caused worsening pain symptoms. Maintaining the levels of vitamin D in your body not only helps to reduce severity of fibro pain, it also supports a strong immune system and healthy bones. (Where to buy it.)

Charlotte’s Web Hemp Capsules +Plus 35 mg

Charlotte’s Web is one of the oldest and most trusted brands to create product that harness the wellness benefits of CBD and phytocannabinoids. When used daily, I have lower stress levels, reduced anxiety and zero back pain (from tension) upon waking each morning. It also helps with focus and concentration.

I’ve tried various brands of CBD and I’ve always come back to Charlotte’s Web as my fibromyalgia responds best to this brand’s formula. I also love that this is a capsule rather than an oil. I take 1-2 capsules per day depending on my pain level and find this works best when taken on a daily basis. (Where to buy it.)

When experiencing significant pain levels, I really like Flower Child’s CBD 1400 tincture which contains 47 mg of CBD. (I recommend sticking to the peppermint.) I also highly recommend their CBG oil. CBG oil increases my focus and clarity (bye-bye fibro fog) and helps to reduce my muscle contractions that accompany the fibromyalgia. You can use coupon code: ref0716498 for $10 off a $30 purchase. (Where to buy it.) Alternately I also like the CBD oil infused MCT oil available from Spark Naturals. Like Flower Child they also offer a sample size.

Nature’s Bounty Magnesium 500 mg

This gluten free magnesium supplement works well in combination with a vitamin B complex at helping to prevent my visual migraines. It also supports bone and muscle health, while maintaining bone mineralization, and helps to keep my pain levels at a minimum. (Where to buy it.)

Gaia Herbs Mental Alertness

Fibro fog straight up sucks. While it’s nothing like dealing with pain, it stills affects my life, and more importantly, my work. This supplement works wonders at conquering my fibro fog. I can literally sit down and write for hours when I take this without having to stand and pace every 5-10 minutes to gather my thoughts.

Formulated with plant-based antioxidants to help support the integrity of vessels that deliver blood to the brain, this organic supplement also enhances cognitive functions with concentrated herbal extracts that support memory, concentration and clear thought. (Where to buy it.)

Due to the high cost of natural supplements, I try to save money where I can. Therefore I purchase all of these supplements through Thrive Market with the exception of the probiotics, which I purchase from Grove Co., and the vitamin D & magnesium which I procure locally.

Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that just because something works for me, doesn’t necessarily mean it will work the same way for you. Everyones body and response to treatments can vary. However, my hope is, that you are able to use the information I’ve provided to help forge your own path to wellness.

Just remember, when you cut corners on a project or a job, that project suffers. The same goes for your health. So don’t forget to stay active and practice self care on a daily basis in addition to addressing your body’s nutritional needs!

Explore More Health And Wellness Options

If you found the information in this post helpful, then you may also be interested in these other health and wellness articles.

Like my pill box? You can buy it here.

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Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: cbd oil, fibromyalgia, health and wellness, healthy, herbal supplements, nutrition, pain remedy, probiotics, vitamins

A Miracle Cure for Migraines? How to Tackle Your Tough Migraine Pain & Start Living Again!

July 28, 2018 By Rebecca D. Dillon

No one ever WANTS to get a migraine. Regardless, 38 million people in the United States suffer from them. A startling 2-3 million people who suffer from migraine pain have them on a chronic basis. This begs the question, is there actually a safe, effective migraine treatment out there? And can it help with other types of pain we experience?

In Search of a Migraine Treatment Free of Side Effects

Recently I was over at my neighbors house sharing (“testing”) some of my new creations with him. Inevitably we always ask how the other is doing. Sometimes this questions leads into the delight of being able to say we’re having a mostly pain free week. Mike was in a motorcycle accident years ago. He actually broke his neck in that accident. And as with most traumatic accidents, both some of the damage as well as the pain has followed him throughout this life.

However, like me, Mike didn’t want to yield to conventional medications. With the epidemic that has developed with the use of overprescribing pain killers, I don’t blame him. I refuse to use them as well; instead seeking natural supplements and therapies to find relief for my fibromyalgia.

I had previously discussed my trials with using CBD oil to tackle my fibromyalgia pain. (Use coupon code: ref0716498 for $10 off CBD oil.) Mike, on the other hand, had mentioned to me about a device that worked so well that even his doctors were impressed. They simply couldn’t wrap their heads around how he was up walking around, much less that he was capable of working. I’d dismissed his recommendation of this device at the time however. And until my most recent visit with Mike, I’d forgotten about it entirely.

During my most recent conversation with Mike, I happened to mention how I was recovering from several weeks worth of chronic tension headaches. In turn, this conversation led back to Mike’s revelation of his “miracle” device.

When Mike was around 17, he started developing migraines. If you’ve ever experienced a migraine, then you know just how excruciating they can be. Not only are migraines painful, they also leave you extremely sensitive to light and noise. Many times, they also leave you unable to function normally.

Unlike non-migraine headaches, over-the-counter pain medications typically have little if any effect on a migraine. Mike’s migraines left him sitting quietly in the dark for hours before the pain would start to subside. Other times they’d drag on for days. This of course interrupted his daily life and activities. Later in life, after his motorcycle accident, Mike had another chronic pain issue added on top of his migraines.

Effective Migraine Treatment from One Little Device

Refusing to settle for a life of daily pain, Mike decided to try alternative therapies. This led to his discovery of the electric acupuncture pen – his “miracle” migraine treatment. Mike told me that our local private hospital used a similar device to provide treatment to migraine sufferers. They charge $276 for the privilege of receiving this treatment. All from a device consumers can buy for less than $10.

The electric acupuncture pen works in a similar way to traditional acupuncture. However, instead of using needles inserted into certain acupressure points of the body, this pen uses electrical pulses. While not a miracle cure, this device does offer safe, effective pain relief without any negative side effects. An effective migraine treatment, the electric acupuncture pen also works on pain from other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, arthritis and tension headaches.

Whenever Mike would get a migraine, he would use his electric acupuncture pen as a migraine treatment. He would apply the pen to his head where the pain was located. And, as he describes it, he could feel his migraine pain “pulling away” from his body. Within 2-3 minutes, Mike’s migraine would be completely gone. After consistent use of this acupuncture technique, Mike stopped having migraines completely. In fact, after being plagued by migraines for well over twenty years, Mike’s been migraine free for the past five years.

Mike let me try out his electric acupuncture pen while I was over for a visit. Having tried acupuncture for my fibromyalgia previously, I was aware of the benefits of traditional acupuncture. So I was delighted to give it a try. Mike uses the acupuncture pen on the 3 setting. However, I found that a bit too “jolting” for me. The first setting however was perfect. Therefore, if you do give this pen a try, I recommend starting at the lowest setting first.

I used the device on my hand where I’d been having a lot of pain lately. Sometimes my hands ache so badly I feel nauseous. It’s rare that I can write using a pen for any length of time. In fact, I bought a Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader at one point because my hands would cramp when I would try to hold a book open. Drawing? Well it’s completely out of the question these days. It’s also part of the reason I turned my creativity to soapmaking. Point being, the electric acupuncture pen actually worked at relieving the pain in my hands I’ve had since college.

While Mike no longer needs to use his acupuncture pen for migraine treatment, he continues to use his electric acupuncture pen for his back pain – a side effect of disc damage from when he broke his neck. He carries it with him to work in his pocket everyday. If he starts to experience any pain, or even like he might have a headache coming on, he’ll use the pen right away. The pain disappears and a headache never forms.

Have you ever been to an acupuncturist or tried an electric acupuncture pen? I’d love to hear your own personal experiences. So be sure to share them in the comments. If you’d like to try the electric acupuncture pen for yourself, you can buy it online via Amazon with free shipping.

For more safe and holistic remedies you can try at home, be sure to follow Soap Deli News on Pinterest, G+, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram. Alternately, you can also subscribe to Soap Deli News via email for future updates, DIY projects and recipes.

Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: acupuncture, fibromyalgia, headache relief, home remedies, home remedy, migraines, natural remedy

Natural Headache Relief Remedies for Tension Headaches

July 19, 2018 By Rebecca D. Dillon

If you’ve ever had a headache so bad you couldn’t function, you aren’t alone. Approximately 45 million Americans suffer from headaches every year. That’s literally one in six people. More important to note, is that women suffer from headaches more than men. So just what is causing all these headaches? And are there natural headache relief remedies that actually work?

I get headaches at least once a month. It’s kind of par for the course. Living with fibromyalgia is not always easy, but it is manageable. And managing frequent headaches is just part of that process. Typically I get a visual migraine when my body is going through hormone changes due to my monthly cycle. However, I get tension headaches a lot more often. And they can be brutal.

As I’m writing this in fact, I’ve been in the midst of a chronic tension headache that’s going on it’s third week. While it’s eased up and actually responds to medication at this point, I’m still struggling to not only find relief but to make it disappear. Because let’s face it, pain affects your quality of life.

What are tension headaches?

The most common headaches that women get are tension headaches. Typically caused by stress and tension in the back and neck, these headaches result in a dull pain, pressure and tightness either in the back of the head or around the forehead. Tension headaches usually start gradually, worsening throughout the day. While they don’t interfere with vision and balance in the way that migraines do, they can last for long periods of time, for days and even weeks. So while a normal tension headache doesn’t generally disrupt daily activities, a chronic headache can, and often does interfere in other ways.

I find that chronic tension headaches are particularly tasking on my emotional well being. As they can cause disrupted sleep as well as intense pain, any type of chronic pain will wear on one’s constitution. This can lead to irritability, tiredness, trouble concentrating, trouble sleeping, muscle aches and mild sensitivity to light or noise in addition to the pain. Typically tension headaches will last anywhere from a half hour to several days. When this happens, these headaches are called episodic tension headaches. Episodic tension headaches last fifteen days or less. However, tension headaches that last beyond this time frame are referred to as chronic tension headaches.

Up to 80% of adults in the United States will have a tension headache at some point in their lives. While approximately 3% of the population will experience chronic daily tension headaches. As women, we are twice as likely to experience tension headaches than men.

I think, that as women, we are expected to handle more emotional weight than men. Combined with the stressors involved with raising a family, working and constant hormone changes throughout our lives, we, as women, often take on more than we can handle either by necessity or a sense of duty. In turn, this has consequences on both our emotional and physical well being. As such, tension headaches are one of the ways our bodies respond to overwhelming stress.

How to reduce your chance of developing a tension headache.

Because tension headaches are caused by stress, you can reduce your chances of developing a tension headache by avoiding the triggers that cause them. Typical triggers that cause the muscle tension that leads to tension headaches include anxiety, not getting enough rest, poor posture, anxiety, fatigue and hunger as well as low levels of iron. You can also develop tension headaches from overuse of certain medications.

As someone with fibromyalgia, muscle tension is often a daily part of my life in addition to chronic pain. Therefore those of us who have fibromyalgia often experience tension headaches on a regular, if not chronic, basis. Through my own personal experience, I’ve found that my chronic headaches often go hand-in-hand with fibro fog – a condition that is demonstrated by decreased energy levels, fatigue and difficulty thinking clearly.

Natural Headache Relief Remedies for Tension Headaches

For those of us who also experience migraines, you are likely aware that taking magnesium supplements can help to thwart migraines from presenting. However there is little evidence that magnesium has an effect on tension headaches. So what natural headache relief remedies do work for tension headaches?

The typical treatment for a tension headache is often over the counter medication. However, as mentioned earlier, frequent use of over the counter medication to treat tension headaches – such as Advil or Tylenol – can lead to rebound headaches. Additionally, over the counter pain medications have their own set of side effects. Overuse of ibuprofen can cause upset stomach while acetaminophen is terrible for your liver. So while your first instinct for treating your tension headache may be to grab a bottle of over the counter pain medication, your body will experience fewer side effects by instead turning to one of these natural headache relief remedies.

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Stress Management

Learning how to better manage stress in your life can help you avoid tension headaches in the future. Just as reducing the stress you’re under, can ease a tension headache that’s already in play. Try learning relaxation techniques, such as meditation, to calm your mind and ease muscle tension in your body. You should also try to get an adequate amount of sleep each night in addition to getting regular exercise and trying to avoid triggers wherever possible.

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Acupuncture

For many people, acupuncture is another option for a natural headache relief remedy. Acupuncture is beneficial at not only reducing and treating pain, it can also reduce stress. Back when I was first diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I explored acupuncture as a natural method to bring my pain levels under control. Not only did I find acupuncture beneficial for reducing my pain, it also helped me to relax and ease a large portion of the tension in my body. (You can read about my early experiences with acupuncture here.)

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Biofeedback

Biofeedback allows you to track your body’s activities on a screen. So you are able to learn how your body responds to certain stimuli. Through this, it’s believed that you can be taught how to gain control over things your body normally handles automatically. There is data that supports biofeedback as a credible solution to treating tension headaches. Specifically, when used in conjunction with relaxation, one study shows that tension headaches were reduced by 50%.

What biofeedback does in basically monitor tension in your neck, jaw, and temples. Through biofeedback you can then learn how to relax those areas. If biofeedback isn’t an option for you, simple breathing exercises that relax the body may also offer significant benefit.

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is another natural headache relief alternative. There is some evidence that suggests applying peppermint essential oil to your forehead and temples is as effective as taking two extra strength Tylenol. While research still needs to be done to confirm this with absolute certainty, the cooling effect of applying peppermint oil along your hairline can help to relax the muscles in your face and neck.

Tension Headache Relief Massage Oil Recipe

To make a simple tension headache relief massage oil for your neck, back and shoulders, combine 1/4 cup sweet almond oil with 8 drops of lavender essential oil, 5 drops peppermint essential oil and 2 drops of chamomile essential oil. Combine the ingredients in a glass bottle and shake well prior to each use.

Tension Headache Relief Pillow

To make a tension headache relief pillow, cut two pieces of linen down to 10″ x 4″ pieces. Sew the two pieces together, leaving one end open, to fill with herbs. (Alternately, you can also use Aleene’s OK To Wash-It glue.) Fill your pillow with a mix of 1/2 part flax seeds, 1 part dried peppermint leaf, 1 part dried lavender buds and 1 part dried chamomile flowers. If desired, you can also add six drops each of lavender and peppermint essential oils. Then sew up the end of the pillow. Use the pillow either warm or cold as needed.

Natural Headache Relief Roller Bottle

You can also make a natural headache relief essential oil roller bottle blend. Combine 1 oz. of either magnesium oil or fractionated coconut oil with 10 drops of peppermint essential oil, 5 drops of frankincense essential oil, 10 drops of lavender essential oil and 10 drops of chamomile essential oil. Remove the roller ball and stop from a 1 oz. roller bottle. Add the essential oils to the roller bottle first. Then follow with either magnesium oil or fractionated coconut oil. Place the roller ball and stop back onto the bottle, then shake well to combine. Roll the oil onto your neck, shoulders and back as needed.

Tension Headache Aromatherapy Roller Bottle Blend

You can also apply a targeted essential oil blend to your temples, above your eyebrows and at the base of your neck. To make an aromatherapy roller bottle for your tension headaches, fill an empty 10 mL roller bottle with 10 drops peppermint essential oil, 6 drops lavender essential oil and 5 drops frankincense essential oil. Then fill the remainder of the bottle with fractionated coconut oil or another neutral scented carrier oil. Shake to mix then apply as needed at the onset of symptoms.

Natural Headache Relief Support: B-Complex Vitamins

While B-complex vitamins may not actually ease a tension headache, studies show that taking a vitamin B-complex can help to lower the stress levels that lead to the development of tension headaches.

Natural Headache Relief Support: Detox Bath

Detox baths not only help to rid the body of toxins, they can also help to ease tension. A simple way to create a natural detox bath is to add either one cup of baking soda or one cup of Epsom salt to warm, running bath water. You can add any of the essential oils mentioned previously for their aromatherapeutic benefits as desired.

I recommend trying peppermint essential oil, lavender essential oil, frankincense essential oil, lemongrass essential oil or sandalwood essential oil – or your favorite calming or cooling essential oil blend. You may also find my pain relief bath bombs recipe with peppermint essential oil especially soothing.

Alternately, Spark Naturals sells an LXR – Anxiety Essential Oil Blend that I highly recommend. This proprietary blend of Lavender, Spruce, Rosewood, Blue Chamomile, Frankincense, Sweet Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vanilla help to ease the suffering of anxiety, depression and emotional stress. This blend would work great both in the bath or in a roller bottle with a carrier oil. (Buy it here.)

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Pain Relief Salves

Another natural headache relief remedy for tension headaches is Tiger Balm, or another similar product. This herbal ointment is made with natural ingredients like peppermint and camphor essential oils. It can be used in the same way as a natural headache relief roller bottle with peppermint essential oil. Simply apply the product to your areas of pain such as the back of your head and neck or your forehead for a cooling sensation. Or try my cooling natural sore muscle salt scrub recipe.

You can also make your own tension headache salve with just two simple ingredients. Simply combine Spark Naturals Base Salve with their LXR – Anxiety Essential Oil Blend to desired strength to ease tension and stress.

Alternately, a cayenne sore muscle salve is another effective remedy. When used to massage tight areas in your back, shoulders and neck, a cayenne pain relief salve eases tension and relaxes the muscles that led to your tension headache in the first place.

You can find a great collection of natural home remedies here or try Finn Naturals All Natural Organic Cayenne Salve. Their organic cayenne pain salve is all natural and handmade. It is helpful for arthritis, headaches, back pain, muscle spasms, menstrual cramps, neuropathy and other types of chronic pain. Or, if like me you also suffer from fibromyalgia, you may find the Fibro Survival Deluxe Set or the Fibro Flare Pain Elixir from Botanical Delight especially suited to your specialized needs.

Cayenne Pain Relief Salve Recipes

You can also make your own natural, warming pain relief salves to ease tension headaches. Following are a few recipes you can try.

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Hot or Cold Compresses

When I first got my tension headache, it was pretty brutal. By the third day it was unbearable. I was practically in tears and I wasn’t sleeping. Over the counter medication had absolutely no effect on it. So, like you, I googled for natural headache relief remedies for tension headaches. This was one of the first options that popped up for naturally treating tension headaches that didn’t require any special products.

I tried a cold compress on the lower back of my head first. It worked ok at relieving some of the pain. So I tried a warm compress next. Basically I just used a heating pad along the back of my head, neck and back. It really relieved my tension headache enough that I was able to feel like I could function again.

If you don’t have a heating pad, you can heat up a damp towel or cloth in the microwave for the same purpose. Just be sure it’s not too hot. You don’t want to accidentally burn your skin.

Natural Headache Relief Remedy: Moving & Stretching

Those of us who spend long hours working at a desk, or even window shopping for soapmaking supplies online (wink wink,) are especially prone to tension headaches. Even if you aren’t bending and hunching over your keyboard 24/7, your back, shoulders and neck can still develop a lot of tension from sitting in the same position all day.

Regardless of whether or not you have a desk job, you really should be up and exercising whenever possible. When I worked for another company, I used to do push ups in my office to help relieve the tension in my back and shoulders. Not only did it ease the muscle tension, it helped with the fibro as well. I also did a lot of stretching while sitting at my desk. During lunch breaks, I would lap the warehouse where our offices were located. It these things are prohibitive to you, simply moving your head in a circular motion does wonders for relieving the built up stress that leads to tension headaches.

Now that I work at home I try to get up and walk around more often. Some days – well on good days – I turn on my favorite playlist and shake my butt a bit. Kind of that, dance like no one is watching sort of thing. Not only does it lift my mood, but it releases tension as well. Ideally, you should be taking a quick break to stretch every 30 to 60 minutes. Dancing is optional, but highly recommended.

In the same realm of thought, yoga is also a wonderful way to relieve both tension and stress. Not only does it help to loosen your muscles, it also improves respiration, vitality and muscle strength. Simple basic yoga poses such as downward facing dog and the child’s pose are both easy ways to fend off a tension headache.

Natural Headache Relief Support: Put Down That Device!

Looking down at your smartphone for extended periods of time puts a LOT of pressure on your neck. In fact, it’s an extra 20-30 lbs. of pressure! Insane, right? And, I mean, do you really don’t need to spend 40 minutes playing Angry Birds Match just because you won unlimited lives. Likewise you’ll also probably want to hold off on giving yourself that new pedicure. Why not get one done professionally and enjoy some self care instead? That said, take breaks from your smartphone already! There’s an entire world out there just waiting for you to enjoy it!

When Natural Headache Relief Remedies Just Don’t Work

Sometimes natural headache relief remedies just don’t work. I tried a natural remedy because over the counter medication just wasn’t doing anything for my tension headache. While warm heat relieved the pain enough so it was bearable, it wasn’t working as a long term solution.

Having fibromyalgia makes my symptoms a little trickier to treat. (I once felt like I’d pulled a muscle for two weeks just from pulling my shirt off up and over my head!) I’m experiencing an insane amount of stress right now. I’m worried about making it as a self-employed writer. I have a lot of debt. I lost my health insurance. And my ex and I got the ball rolling on the whole divorce thing last week. (Only a few more weeks til it’s done.) And then there’s the chronic pain. So I made a really tough decision for myself. I went back on SSRI’s to treat my anxiety.

If you’ve followed my blog or even my social media channels for a long time, then you probably know that I have worked really hard to make lifestyle and nutrition changes to come off of all the prescription medications used to treat my fibromyalgia. The tramadol and the Lyrica were the first to go – and one of the best decisions of my life.

A while back I started taking an incredibly low dose of Celexa. My anxiety was high and I had a lot of tension. Muscle relaxers didn’t help with the tension and I ended up with TMJ. I’d moved out of my apartment into another town to escape some terrible upstairs neighbors who would scream at one another until three in the morning and abused their dog.

I was commuting a much longer distance back and forth to work (which especially sucks with fibro) and I was starting to have panic attacks while driving. The long stretch of road I had to commute down to get to my day job in Roanoke had multiple accidents a day. They actually put a sign up warning drivers to slow down. Over 400 people a year die on that road.

Once I was taking 20mg of Celexa for about two or three weeks, my jaw tension disappeared completely. I moved back to Roanoke. I impulsively got married. Six months later we split and I’ve been living with my best friend ever since. I started therapy. And then I weaned myself off of the SSRI completely. Since then I’ve been working on discontinuing my use of muscle relaxers entirely. I’ve tried a plethora of herbal supplements including skullcap and passionflower (which helps some) and CBD oil.

The CBD oil was by far the best substitute for the Flexeril’s – a muscle relaxer that helps with both muscle spasms and tension as well as some pain. As it’s not recommended you take flexeril for long periods of time, this was the last prescription medication I was holding onto. However, CBD is not at all an affordable option for me at the daily amount and dosage that I’d need to stop my medication. Which is a shame because it offers so many other health benefits. Plus it’s pretty miraculous at calming anxiety. (Coming from the girl who used to have agoraphobia.)

So, for me to have to admit to myself, that short term I needed to start taking the Celexa again – it was hard. I didn’t want to. At the same time however, I couldn’t function. So, despite my desire to be free of medications once and for all, I still have a little ways to go. I’m okay with that though because I know that one day I will get there.

While modern SSRI’s are not believed to be as effective at treating tension headaches as a tricyclic antidepressant, there is some evidence that, based on the individual’s situation, they can offer some relief. As much of my tension headache was coming from both stress and anxiety – I can be a chronic worrier – in addition to muscle tension, the Celexa has offered significant relief. It’s also within my budget.

A 30-day dose of just 20mg of (generic) citrolopram only costs $17. Whereas the amount and dosage of CBD I needed runs $140 per month at minimum, assuming I have no bad days. This is both frustrating and infuriating at the same time. That there are natural, healthier alternatives to modern pharmaceuticals out there that aren’t within the reach of so many who are in chronic pain. However that is another kettle of fish entirely.

While I am still having rebound headaches – they have not gone away entirely – I am feeling and functioning significantly better than I was before.

If you are experiencing chronic headaches, there could be an underlying medical condition. So please see a doctor if your headaches persist. I know my headaches are tension headaches. I’ve had CAT scans in the past, with and without contrast, when I was on my journey to have the fibro diagnosed. However, it’s always best not to gamble with your health and be proactive where you need to be.

If you’ve stuck with me through this entire article, I hope you are able to glean some benefit from the contents. I’d also love for you to share comments on your own personal experiences and successful natural headache relief remedies.

If you enjoy this article, then you may also be interested in my Natural Home Remedies & Herbal Health Care Pinterest board. Or you can explore some of my other natural home remedies here. For more of what Soap Deli News has to offer, be sure to give me a follow on Pinterest, G+, Facebook, Twitter, Blog Lovin’, and Instagram. Alternately, you can also subscribe to Soap Deli News via email for future updates, DIY projects and recipes.

Filed Under: Bath & Beauty Recipes, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Tagged With: anxiety, emotional health, fibromyalgia, headache relief, health and wellness, home remedies, home remedy, natural alternative, pain relief, pain remedy, stress