Alternate Nostril Breathing Protocol for Migraine

Posted on January 01 2026, By: Cerebral Torque

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Alternate Nostril Breathing for Migraine

An evidence-based breathing technique to reduce migraine frequency and improve nervous system resilience

By Cerebral Torque and Lauren Hemley (Yoga Instructor)

Overview

Alternate nostril breathing (ANB) is a yogic breathing technique that's showing real promise for migraine prevention. Unlike acute treatments that target pain once it starts, ANB works differently. It's preventive infrastructure - building nervous system resilience so attacks happen less often in the first place.

The technique involves breathing through one nostril at a time in a controlled pattern. This simple practice, done consistently, appears to shift the autonomic nervous system toward parasympathetic dominance and reduce the overall burden of migraine.

Key Point

ANB doesn't reduce pain intensity once an attack is fully underway. Keep your acute medications for when you need them. This is about making attacks less frequent - not stopping them mid-cycle.

The Technique

The mechanics are straightforward, but getting the rhythm right matters. Aim for 5-6 complete cycles per minute, with each inhale and exhale lasting about 5 seconds.

Watch: Lauren demonstrates the complete alternate nostril breathing technique

Sit comfortably with your spine straight

Use your right thumb to close your right nostril

Inhale slowly through your left nostril (5 seconds)

Close your left nostril with your ring finger, release your thumb

Exhale slowly through your right nostril (5 seconds)

Inhale through your right nostril (5 seconds)

Close your right nostril, release your ring finger

Exhale through your left nostril (5 seconds)

This completes one cycle - aim for 5-6 cycles per minute

The Pattern

Think of it as: Left in → Right out → Right in → Left out. That's one cycle. The key is keeping the pace slow and steady - rushing defeats the purpose.

Practice Protocols

There are two ways to use ANB: regular daily practice for prevention, and extended sessions for specific situations.

Daily Practice

Frequency 3 times per day

Duration 5-10 minutes per session

Cycles 10-20 per session

Commitment At least 3 months

Suggested timing:

Morning - before stress begins
Midday - reset during a break
Evening - wind down before bed

Extended Sessions

When you have more time or need a stronger reset, do a single 20-minute session.

Use this:

During prodrome (when you sense an attack coming)
After an attack to restore cognitive function
During high-stress periods
When stuck in "fight or flight" mode (racing heart, tension, feeling wired but exhausted)

Daily Sessions

Consistent daily practice is what drives results

Months Minimum

Give it time - nervous system changes aren't instant

Minutes Extended

Longer sessions for acute nervous system reset

What to Expect

The benefits fall into two categories: what you'll likely see from consistent daily practice over months, and what a single extended session can do.

With Consistent Daily Practice

Fewer migraine attacks
Less overall disability
Fewer missed days, better functioning

After a Single Extended Session

Shift toward parasympathetic tone
Improved interoceptive awareness
Better cognitive clarity

Track Your Progress

Log your daily practice and migraine days. After 3 months, compare your attack frequency and disability to your baseline. Adjust from there.

When to Skip It

ANB isn't always appropriate. There are times when forcing the practice will do more harm than good.

Skip ANB When:

You have nasal congestion blocking airflow
You're mid-attack with severe nausea
It feels forced or increases your stress

The technique should feel calming. If you're struggling to breathe or the practice itself is creating tension, it's not the right time.

Remember

This is preventive infrastructure. It makes your nervous system more resilient so attacks happen less often. It's not an acute treatment - keep your rescue medications for active attacks.

The Evidence

Two recent studies provide the foundation for these recommendations.

Çöme et al. (2025)

Three months of ANB practiced three times daily led to significant reduction in attack frequency (P = 0.002) and disability scores (P = 0.003) compared to control. Published in Primary Health Care Research & Development.

Ramaswamy et al. (2025)

A single 20-minute session improved interoceptive accuracy (P < 0.001) and visuospatial cognition (P < 0.001). Published in Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback.

Want More Yoga-Based Migraine Relief?

This article was created in collaboration with Lauren Hemley, a yoga instructor specializing in practices for migraine and nervous system regulation. For more yoga-specific techniques and guidance, follow her on Instagram: @devoted_heart_lauren

Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making changes to your migraine management plan.

References

Çöme B, et al. Effects of alternate nostril breathing on migraine frequency and disability: A controlled study. Primary Health Care Research & Development. 2025.
Ramaswamy P, et al. Single-session alternate nostril breathing improves interoceptive accuracy and visuospatial cognition. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback. 2025.

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