Getting our period is a monthly occurrence for women that can come with some not-so-fun symptoms like cramps, bloating, and fatigue. But there's one silver lining to that time of the month—yoga! That's right, yoga can help ease period pain, and we're here to tell you how. 

While many over-the-counter medications can help ease these symptoms, some of us prefer more natural methods.

Yoga is a form of exercise that helps improve flexibility and strength while promoting relaxation. It's based on holistic health and wellness principles, which means it takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. This means that yoga isn't just about the physical benefits but also the mental and emotional benefits.

WHAT IS YOGA FOR PERIOD PAIN?

Most of us would do just about anything to avoid period pain if we could. But as much as we might try to ignore our bodies' natural rhythms, at the end of the day, there's just no escaping it—we all have to deal with our period every month and all the symptoms that come with it. So what's a girl to do?

Yoga, that's what! 

While it might not be a cure-all for everything that ails you during that time of the month, yoga can definitely help ease some of the most common period symptoms, like cramps and bloating. Not to mention, it can help you de-stress and feel more connected to your body (which can be a huge relief when you're feeling out of sorts). 

When it comes to period pain, yoga can help by promoting relaxation and relieving muscle tension. 

BENEFITS OF YOGA

Yoga has many benefits, both physical and mental. Physically, yoga can improve flexibility, strength, and posture. It can also help to reduce stress and tension headaches. Mentally, yoga can help to improve focus and concentration. It can also help to reduce anxiety and depression.

For centuries, women have been turning to yoga to help with this monthly visitor. From easing cramps to helping with PMS, there are many benefits to doing yoga during your period. Read through to learn more about the beautiful benefits of this artistic wellness.

Eases Cramps

One of the most common reasons why women practice yoga during their period is to ease cramps. Cramps are caused by the uterus contracting to shed the uterine lining. When you do certain yoga poses, it can help to relax the muscles in the uterus and alleviate cramping.

Helps with PMS

Yoga can also help with some other symptoms that come with your period, such as PMS. PMS is caused by a combination of factors, including hormone fluctuations and stress. Yoga can help to reduce stress levels and balance hormones, which can help to lessen the symptoms of PMS.

Boosts Energy Levels

Another benefit of yoga for periods is that it can help to boost energy levels. During your period, your body goes through many changes, making it easy to feel run down and tired. A gentle yoga session, on the other hand, can help you feel energized and less tired.

BEST YOGA POSES FOR PERIOD PAINS

When selecting yoga poses to relieve period pains, it is crucial to choose gentle poses that do not put unnecessary pressure on the abdomen.

The best yoga poses for period pain are those that release tension in the lower back and hips, typically where women experience the most pain during their periods.

Next time you feel crummy because Aunt Flo is in town, roll out your yoga mat and try some of these poses. 

1. CHILD'S POSE- BALASANA

 

Child's Pose (Balasana) is an important resting posture in yoga, which is also an excellent way to stretch your whole body. 

This pose is excellent for relieving lower back pain and fatigue—two things that are all too common during periods. 

1. To get into a child's pose, start on all fours with your knees hip-width apart and your big toes touching.
2. As you exhale, slowly sit back on your heels and lower your forehead to the floor. 
3. You can also place a pillow or block under your head for added support. 

2. RECLINED BOUND ANGLE- SUPTA BADDHA KONASANA

 

 

This great hip opener can help relieve period pain by stretching out the inner thighs and groin area. It's also a very relaxing pose, which can help to reduce stress levels. To do this pose:

1. Lie down on your back with your knees bent and the soles of your feet together.
2. Use your hands to hold onto your ankles or shins, and then gently pull your legs towards your chest until you feel a comfortable stretch in your inner thighs and groin area. You can also place a pillow under your knees for added support.
3. Hold this pose for at least 30 seconds or as long as you feel comfortable. 

3. PIGEON POSE- KAPOTASANA

 

With the Pigeon pose, all parts of the lower body are stretched, the abdominal organs are stimulated, and menstrual discomfort is relieved. Additionally, it opens the hips and relieves stress and anxiety in the body. To do this pose:

1. Start in a downward-facing dog with your feet hip-width apart.
2. Bring your right knee forward so it's resting near your right wrist, and place your right ankle near your left hip.
3. Lower your hips so they're resting on top of your bent leg, and then extend your left leg straight behind you, keeping both hips level. If you want a deeper stretch, place both hands on either side of your right leg and walk them forward until you feel a comfortable stretch in the hips and glutes.
4. Hold this pose for at least 30 seconds or as long as you feel comfortable before repeating it on the other side. 

4. RECLINING TWIST- BHARADVAJA

 

With this pose, your chest, and obliques are stretched, while soothing your abdominal area. It's also a great way to de-stress, thanks to its calming effect on the nervous system. To do this pose:

1. Lie down on your back with both legs extended straight in front of you.
2. Bend both knees and plant both feet flat on the floor.
3. Cross one leg over the other, so both knees are stacked on top of each other, then slowly let both legs fall over to one side.
4. Use both arms to support yourself by placing them behind or beside you.
5. Keep both shoulders pressing down on the floor.
6. Hold this position for at least 30 seconds or as long as you feel comfortable before repeating on the other side. 

5. LEGS-UP-THE-WALL- VARIPATI KARANAI

 

This final yoga pose is excellent for relieving period pain and can help improve circulation throughout the body and promote relaxation. To do this pose:

1. Start by sitting with one hip against a wall, then swing both legs up onto the wall, so they're pointing straight up towards the ceiling.
2. Your butt should be close enough to the wall that you can rest it against it.
3. Once you're settled into position, simply relax into the posture and let gravity do its thing. You may want to stay here for up to 5 minutes or longer if you have time. 
4. When you're ready to come out of the posture, slowly roll onto one side before pushing yourself up into a seated position.

 

PRACTICING YOGA

When practicing yoga for period pain, it is important to start slowly and only do poses that feel comfortable. If a pose feels too intense or uncomfortable, stop immediately. Remember to breathe deeply and focus on your breath throughout your practice. 

Yoga is a great way to ease period pain. By practicing some simple poses, you can help to reduce cramps, bloating, and mood swings. So next time you're feeling down in the dumps during your period, grab a yoga mat and try it!

SUMMING IT UP:

When it comes to period pain, yoga can help by promoting relaxation and relieving muscle tension. If you're looking for a natural way to ease your period pains, look no further than yoga! Yoga is a form of exercise that helps improve flexibility and strength while promoting relaxation. So next time you're feeling crampy, try doing some yoga! It just might be the relief you need. Trust us; your body will thank you! 

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