How do you get rid of a tension headache without pills?

Nice massage: One way is to have a nice massage in a relaxing environment. Warm bath, with soft music. 10% peppermint oil applied to temples (don't get it in your eyes). Longer term prevention: assess your diet for any foods you might be sensitive to & avoid them. Guided imagery, and other mind-body exercises & visualizations. Regular yoga practice. Classical homeopathy. For some, acupuncture.

A OTC Preparation?: I have suffered at times myself from tension headaches. I have found that the over the counter topical preparation called: head on, actually does work. I was surprised when i first tried it and it was effective. Lately, it hasn't been as readily available at the pharmacies, so I have found it online. Headaches are common and a checkup with your physician may rule out common causes like allergies.