You don’t need me to tell you about all the ways in which a period can ruin your week, but we can all agree that one of the worst symptoms of menstruation is the horrible cramps that we have to deal with for a few days every month! Sure, there are plenty of medicinal options that you can take advantage to help ease the pain, but what about if you want to go down a more holistic avenue? Here are five natural ways to reduce menstrual cramps.
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Heat Patches
Applying heat to the painful area is always a great way to ease some of the symptoms and give you some comfort. You can use an old fashioned hot water bottle, or you can opt for some of the specially developed heating pads that are available. They can be fixed to your lower tummy and will radiate heat for a pleasing amount of time.
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Diet
Your diet can often have an impact on how much pain and cramping you have during a period. Try to avoid eating lots of fatty foods, and instead focus on getting in more and more leafy vegetables. This will give you a boost of vitamin B, iron, and calcium, which are all things that can help to regular inflammation in the body.
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Essential Oils
There is a plethora of essential oils that are believed to have positive effects for menstrual cramps when massaged into the body. Types that have been noted as being good for period issues include lavender, clove, rose, chamomile, cinnamon, peppermint, ginger, and marjoram.
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Exercise
I know, working out is the last thing you feel like doing when you are on your period, but believe me, it works! A gentle set of aerobic exercises or even a moderately paced stroll around the park can get your blood circulation going and release endorphins that will help to make you feel good.
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Sleep
If you have the opportunity to sleep during the day, then do so as much as possible! Sleeping off menstrual cramps is tried and tested, especially when you are in the fetal position and can curl up to relax your stomach muscles. It might take a little longer to actually drift off, but once you are asleep, you are mercifully free from cramp pain for a good few hours.
