Knowing when the enemy plans to attack is the best way to make sure that your troops are prepared. Plus, it prevents you from the panic that I know we’ve all experienced: wondering if you’re late. It’s simple, but it can make such a big difference. I usually just make an event series in my phone called “My Moon” on the first day of my cycle, but there are also apps designed specifically for this purpose. Be mindful and aware of how regular your periods are.
The menstrual cycle is something beautiful – it is a way to connect with one’s own body and truly listen to its needs. And embracing your cycle is the most natural way to experience what it means to go through the process of menstruation and really own it. One way to do that? Yoga. During a recent workshop, FEMNA co-founder Emily showed us some simple yoga poses geared towards menstruation, ones you can try out (or easily incorporate into your existing yoga flow) if your period cramps have got you feeling all out of whack.
You’re probably shaking your head in disbelief right now and I totally get it – those are the things you’re probably craving the most. No sugar, no salt? Wait – that’s all, right? Unfortunately, these things will only aggravate your symptoms, making you grumpier and sadder in the long run. Sugar, obviously, makes your blood sugar spike – and then inevitably, crash. Sugar crashes & period irritability are a recipe for disaster. (Can anyone say, “DON’T TALK TO ME?”)
Salt, on the other hand, leads to greater water retention, which then – that’s right – makes you even more bloated. You’ll be rolling around like a beach ball soon if you keep munching on those chippies. So, what I would recommend is that you really monitor your intake of these two bad boys – not that you need to eliminate them completely (because Lord knows how damn near impossible that is).
That’s right, now it’s time to give into your cravings. Chocolate with over 70% cacao is actually really rich in antioxidants and it also triggers endorphin production – double bingo! It’s also high in magnesium, which has long been associated with easing cramps. So stock up & snack up.
I learned this lesson the hard way. Trust me: do not, I repeat, DO NOT go get a wax while on your period. You will regret it sorely – and your sore pubic area will too. During your period, your sensitivity to pain increases greatly, making even ordinary activities such as eye brow plucking 10x more painful. This goes especially for the breast region, with your twin peaks becoming so tender that it would probably hurt to bump into a cloud. So wear the right bra, plan your beauty routines around your monthly menstruation, and keep yourself lookin’ & feelin’ fine ♥
Grazing is the way our bodies were designed to consume food. Huge meals are a huge burden on the digestive system, leading to bloating and lowered energy as we struggle to process them. The bigger the meal, the bigger the energy crash. Eating smaller meals keeps your metabolism at attention and your energy up all day long. The pros: you can basically justify continuously eating (within reason). The cons: no more binge-ing on a whole pizza pie.
I know, I never feel like going to the gym, but on my period? No. Way. That being said, there are many benefits to exercising on diminishing period-related pain (but also, exercise is good for pretty much everything, duh). So try to move yourself around and get your heart rate up at least once per day. That could mean jogging through the aisles of your grocery store picking out your next snacks, riding your bike to work, or even having sex. Stay active, but avoid extreme sports such as BMX-ing, skydiving, or hiking Mount Everest. Everything, even healthy things, in moderation.
There is very little an orgasm doesn’t do – it pretty much makes everything better, even your skin! But yes, there is a specific reason why this helps with period cramps. The release of endorphins after an orgasm soothes all kinds of pain and makes you feel instantly happier. Beyond that, right before an orgasm, the uterus is more relaxed, and at the moment of release, blood flow increases which creates lasting relief from cramps.
Tags: Body, Environment, Health, Sexual Health
Emma Stern is an American expat who, 5 years ago, fell in love with the city of Berlin and hasn't been able to stay away ever since. A writer and English editor for the Amazingy magazine, Emma's other interests include film, surrealism, avocados, and barefeet. Emma finds herself in perfect harmony with Amazingy's ethos, as a sustainable lifestyle is at the core of her values. She aims to spread her love for life and art through her quirky writing and upbeat attitude.
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I’m so glad it could help you. I know exactly how you feel 😛 x
Hot. Water. Bottle. Great tips, such accurate timing for me (currently dying)
