Massage also can relieve muscle tension — and sometimes headache pain. Gently massage your temples, scalp, neck and shoulders with your fingertips, or gently stretch your neck.

Is it bad to rub your temples?

“Muscle tension varies, so rubbing on your temples may not bring relief,” says Dr. Bang. “But rubbing on the tender spots, or trigger points, in your neck and shoulder muscles can help.”

Why does massaging temples help headache?

The process of massage therapy causes your brain to release a chemical, known as Serotonin, which helps to relieve migraine pain. Studies show that this chemical directly reduces the pain of migraines.