Walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week is a simple, natural way to reduce physical and mental tension that can lead to head pain. How does moving your legs help your head feel better?

• Chill out. Walking promotes relaxation, counteracting the tendency for neck, jaw, and skull muscles to tighten up during a headache.

• Reduce pain naturally. Cardiovascular exercise such as brisk walking releases endorphins — the body’s natural painkillers — in the bloodstream.

• Work it through. While walking, your mind can work through troubling issues and clear mental clutter. Many people find it one of the best ways to reduce stress and avoid resulting headaches.

When a headache threatens, put on your walking shoes and start moving.