Stitching Through the Pain: How Knitting Can Help With Migraines

Headache? Migraine? And stress already knocking at your door? Maybe your best remedy isn't in the medicine cabinet – but in your hands. Yes, really: Knitting and crocheting can actually help relieve migraine symptoms. Why? Because they calm your mind, focus your attention, and offer the comfort of rhythm, repetition and control – exactly what you need when everything feels overwhelming.

🤔 What happens during a migraine?

Migraine is more than a headache – it's a neurological response that can cause nausea, light sensitivity, visual issues and brain fog. Often triggered by stress, hormones or overstimulation.

🌸 How knitting helps

Like breathwork or yoga for your fingers. It soothes the nervous system.

You focus on one thing. One loop. One stitch. The rest fades away.

Crafting has been shown to lower cortisol levels – the very hormone that fuels stress headaches.

Creating something with your hands gives you power over something – important when your brain feels out of control.

One of the best parts: no blue light, no noise, no alerts. Just yarn and peace.

🌟 My advice:

Knitting isn't a cure. But it can be part of a calming routine that helps you manage pain. The slow, mindful pace of each stitch helps bring you back into your body and away from the tension.

If you struggle with migraines, always talk to your doctor – but keep a pair of needles nearby. Just in case.

What helps you when your head aches? 

Share in the comments or join my Facebook group – I'd love to hear your story!

I'm looking forward to your feedback! 🧶
Yours,
Kathrin