Let's not waste time--your period cramps are bad and you need relief now. So let's go into the 4 natural ways you can alleviate those period cramps simply mostly with things you probably already own!
If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to period cramp relief check out our full period cramp relief guide here!
Let's start!
1. Stretching Option: Child's Pose
You know this pose--it's the one you do when you're at the yoga class and everyone else is wrapping themselves into pretzels and you literally cannot so you sit back into this one (just me??)
Child's pose is amazing for helping relax those muscle particularly the tense ones in your back.
2. Take a Warm Bath or Shower
Heat helps to alleviate period cramps, it relaxes the muscle area that is tensed up through your cramps. A shower or bath is a quick and simple way to heat that area and relax your body.
Treat yourself to a warm shower or bath. Added benefit, use a PMS specific bath bomb or lavender to really relax yourself!
3. Other Heated Options
A shower or bath is a wonderful option, but the heat is not long lasting. If you have a heated pad or rice bag on hand you can continue to have some of that heat for a little bit longer.
If you don't have one you can quickly make one up out of a piece of fabric (you could even use an old shirt!) and some rice. Check out this tutorial here. The tutorial indicates using a sewing machine, but you could also hand stitch it closed with a simple needle and thread.
If you're looking for something more long lasting, completely portable (you can wear it to go to work and school! ) and shipped easily to you each month, check this out. We think you'll really like it.
4. Stretching Option: Pigeon Pose
Another pose for relaxing your lower body, including your hips which hold a lot of the stress from menstrual cramps. It's a simple stretch you can do as a beginner to yoga--just don't forget to breathe through it.
Watch this video to learn how to do pigeon pose!
We hope these tips have helped you!
Want a little extra help for next time? See why people say The Band provides the "most period relief I've had in a decade"
Want more information about period friendly stretches? Check here. Want to learn more about WTF your body is doing during this time? Check out our comprehensive period cramp relief guide.