HEALTH

There are many ways to relieve period cramps, from soaking in a warm bath to taking over-the-counter pain medicine. While these treatments work, there is an easier, natural way to relieve cramps: exercise. Don't worry—we're not talking about a strenuous, sweaty, stair-climbing type of workout. Simple yoga routines are a sure cure for your cramps. In fact, any movement that gets the blood flowing is helpful. Before we dive in, let's talk about what exactly period pain is, why it happens and how to treat it.

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as period pain, affects the body 1–2 days before bleeding occurs. Cramps can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on physical and emotional stress, genetics and overall health. One sure way to ease the pain is exercise. It may be the last thing on your mind, but exercise is proven to relieve period pain. When you work out, your body experiences an increase in blood circulation which can lalso ower stress levels. Next time you reach for the ibuprofen bottle, try one of these yoga routines instead.

13-minute yoga flow
These poses will have you feeling free (of cramps!) and flexed.

 

Jessamyn Stanley's PMS yoga poses
Get your blood flow going *and* eliminate lower pack pain.

 

10-minute de-stress and stretch workout
Bend it like...you're doing yoga! Deep breathing and bends will help ease the period pain—and your stress.

 

For more information on your period and how your body changes throughout the month, check out this healthy advice for every stage of your cycle.

What is your go-to period-cramp remedy? Share your secrets with us in the comments! 

by Julia Bonney | 4/28/2020