Did you know Yoga can help with Dysmenorrhea (severe period cramps)?

Before you even start reading, let me state that I am not a doctor and I have never been to med school (I don’t think I ever will because I can only sit through biology class), but I am a yoga instructor and a woman so walk with me on this one?

I genuinely feel like period cramps is every woman’s headache, but can I tell you that I get away with cramps half the time? I cannot recall having cramps that have kept me in bed for the longest time. While it’s normal to have menstrual cramps, the pain should usually reduce as you age. DYSMENORRHEA is the medical term for painful menstrual cramps, and this is a common condition amongst many women. There are several over-the counter pain relievers (because I am not a doctor/pharmacist, I cannot list them, and this blog is basically to get you off these relievers anyway) to alleviate the pain. But my question to you is, do you find that sustainable? Do you want to keep taking these pills every month while still experiencing severe pain and mood swings?

Well, I am here to introduce you again to yoga – a more sustainable and holistic way of alleviating the pain and improving your menstrual well-being and cycle. Menstrual cramps happen when a chemical called the prostaglandin makes your uterus contract (tighten up). During your period, the prostaglandin levels shoot up and this causes the uterus to contract more, hence the cramping and discomfort. Women who suffer painful period usually have pain in their hips, lower back and inner thighs; and this may be coupled with severe mood disorders due to hormonal imbalances.

There are specific yoga flows/poses, also called “hip opening exercises”, which help relax the uterus and ovaries; and open the pelvic floor muscles. This boosts the blood circulation in the uterus and stretches its muscles. The exercises/yoga movements also help shed your uterine lining, which is the blood and tissue that comes out of your vagina during your period.

Again, yoga is restorative, and involves relaxation and breathing exercises, to help balance your hormones. This would generally put you in a way better mood. I know this sounds “ridiculous” and “painful” when you picture doing yoga during your period, but trust me, you would experience a tremendous improvement with the pain.

Lastly, please eat a lot of anti-inflammatory foods few days before and during your period. Darling, the coke can wait. I also recommend green tea and cinnamon tea for your mood booster (you people add sugar and milk to your tea, and I find that sus, so I am judging you!) But please stay away from dairy products if you can during this time.

I hope this helps! If you read till the end, thank you and I hope your next period is pleasant or somewhat pleasant at least. Because I love you, I will leave you with a very short and basic yoga flow/poses you can do in your period.

Please feel free to drop a comment and share this if you enjoyed reading. Also, connect with me on all my social media platforms. Until next time, please stay zen!