It’s that time of the month that all females dread. The mood swings, hormonal acnes, and worst of all, cramps. I’m sure many of you females out there will empathise as we all been through this, one time or another, some maybe have it worse than others. But regardless, we can all agree that it is a rather inconvenient and painful week we have to go through every month.
I was inspired to write this post really because I was having one of the worst cramps that it woke me up at night. I never really like taking medications and have refused to take any pain relief medications despite days/nights like these. Instead, I usually turn to using Yoga and home remedies, (i.e. rubbing a few drops of lavender essential oil on my lower abdomen) and eating chocolates and bananas to help relieve the cramp.
One of the many reasons I love Yoga is because of how it uses our body to heal itself just through simple asana. Here are some asana that I personally used that help me get through these dreaded days!
- Baddha Konasana
When you are on your period, diarrhoea and constipation comes hand in hand. This asana is particularly helpful as it helps to soothes menstrual discomfort and the digestive system.
- Supta Baddha Konasana
Similar to the previous posture, except you are now lying on your back. And who does not love a good excuse to lie down, especially when you are having cramps. Leaning back in this pose relaxes the abdominal muscles which helps ease the cramping sensation.
- Balasana
Simple yet restorative posture; child’s pose flexes our reproductive organs, as well as releasing the tension in our back, shoulders, and neck. Super calming and relaxing on the body, and on your mind too.
- Bharadvaja
One of my favourites as I am always having accompanying back pain during my period, reclining supine twist stretches the back and hips, relieving the backaches. The twisting motion also stimulates the digestive organs giving it a good stretch.
- Chakravakasana (Cat cow)
Another one that’s great for anyone with period backpain woes like me, cat-cow pose targets the back and abdominal muscles, giving them a good stretch and tone. It also warms up the body, helping to relieve menstrual cramps in the process.
I hope these asana can help you through your painful period cramps. And if all else fails, a cup of hot chocolate always helps warms the body and soul!
References:
https://www.lunette.com/blogs/news/7-yoga-poses-to-help-ease-menstrual-pain
https://www.doyou.com/6-yoga-poses-to-relieve-menstrual-cramps-37359/
