I've always been really funny about working out during my period. I get pretty bad bloating, fatigue, and, worst of all, seriously painful cramps! So being physically active during that time of the month was never really an option for me. That is until I started doing yoga. After a month of hitting the studio three to four times a week, it became hard to turn down a class just because I had my period. But the intense abdominal pains were very discouraging. So one day I decided to suck it up and started to notice some of the yoga poses were actually easing my pain and rather quickly too. Who would have thought?
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That's because yoga includes a lot of deep breathing that effectively help relieve pain and tension. But if you're new to yoga, instead of hitting an intense class, try relaxing with a few different poses at home that will help relax your muscles and sooth cramps. Check out a few of my favorite ones below. Believe me, you'll feel a difference in just a matter of minutes!
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Child pose
The child pose is a resting pose you usually retreat to in between intense poses. It's a great position for releasing tension. Begin by kneeling down and sitting on your knees. Then just fold your torso forward, allowing your forehead to touch your mat. Stretch your hands out in front of you and breathe in and out deeply.
Butterfly pose
I find that this pose helps me not just with menstrual cramps, but with any abdominal pain. Start off by sitting up on your mat and then bringing the soles of your feet together. Your knees should be pointing out to the sides. Keep your back straight and remain in this pose for 2 to 3 minutes deeply breathing. You can put a pillow behind you if you need the support.
Cat pose
This simple but very effective pose helps ease tension in your back and abdominal area. Begin by getting down in a "tabletop" position with your hands and knees on the floor. As you exhale you should be rounding your spine towards the ceiling, always making sure that your shoulders and knees remain in position. Then release your head down towards the floor, and inhale as you come back to the original "tabletop" position. Repeat 2 or 3 times.
Cobra pose
I always get so much relief whenever I attempt to do the cobra flow pose. Lie on your belly with your legs back and your palms on the floor with elbows pointing out behind you. Then lightly lift your upper body. Hold the position for 5 to 6 breaths and then as you exhale slowly lower your forehead down to the ground. Repeat for 3 to 4 times.
Chair pose
Even though the chair pose mainly works your arms and legs, it also strengthens your abdominal core. Stand on your mat with your feet hip width apart, arms at your sides and your back straight. Now inhale and sit down like you're sitting in an invisible chair. Stretch out your arms in front of you with palms pressed together and breathe in and out evenly. Try holding the pose for 30 seconds and release on an inhale standing straight. Do 2 or 3 more.
