When you're dealing with period cramps, every little bit of relief helps. That's why we've put together a list of six positions that can help to ease the pain. Each position is designed to target different areas that may be causing discomfort. So, whether you're curled up in a ball on the couch or trying to get some work done, we have a position for you!
1: The Classic Cramp Pose
The Classic: This is the most common position for relieving period cramps. Simply lie on your back with a pillow under your knees and another one under your head. This will help to open up your pelvic area and allow for better blood flow.
2: Child's Pose
The Child's pose is the most widely used and common yoga pose. Even those who aren't experienced Yogis know this one. This pose specifically targets menstrual pain in your back.
Use a mat or a soft surface starting with your knees on the floor. Fold yourself forward extending your arms as far as you can reach on the floor. You'll want to lean your forehead and chest on the mat and reach as far as you can with your arms.
Relax your hips slowly stretching your lower back muscles.
For an even deeper stretch, spread your knees apart more and lean back. This will provide even more relief for your period cramps.
3: Cat-Cow
Cat-cow is a yoga pose that targets your abdominal muscles along with your back. This pose helps to increase the blood flow in your body and can help to relieve pain.
Start on all fours, then slowly arch your back while looking up towards the sky and drop your belly toward the ground. Hold for a few seconds before releasing and moving into cat pose.
To do cat pose, start on all fours again and slowly curl your back while looking towards the ground and tucking your chin. Hold for a few seconds before releasing.
You can do these poses together or separately, whichever is more comfortable for you. Repeat 5to 20 times to relieve pain.
4: Pigeon Pose
Pigeon pose is a great way to help relieve period cramps in your hips.
To do the pigeon pose, you will need to start in a downward dog position. Then, bring your right knee forward so that it is positioned between your hands. Keep your back leg straight and press your hips towards the ground. Hold this position for 30 seconds before repeating on the other side.
A more intense stretch can be achieved by reaching your arms over your head stretching as far as you can reach.
5: Lying Spinal Twist
When you're feeling crampy, one of the best positions to ease the pain is lying spinal twist. This pose gently stretches and massages your abdominal organs.
To do it, lie on your back with both legs extended straight out. Bend your right knee and cross it over your left leg, placing your foot flat on the ground.
Your digestive organs are getting just as much stimulation as well.
6: Bound Angle Pose
The Bound Angle Pose is a great way to help with period cramps. This pose helps to open up the hips and groin, which can help to ease the pain caused by menstrual cramps. To do this pose, sit on the floor with your legs bent in front of you and your feet touching. Bring your heels as close to your center as possible.
Not only does this pose do wonders for your menstrual cramps, it also does wonders for your digestive system.
7: Inverted Leg Pose
Look no further than the inverted leg pose. This pose is known to help relieve tension in the lower back and pelvis, which can often be exacerbated during your menstrual cycle. To do this pose, begin by lying on your back on the floor with your bottom up against a wall. Bring your legs up so they are laying flat vertically up against the wall. Your body will make a 90-degree-angle.
This pose in general helps regenerate circulation and reinvigorating your nervous system. And not to mention, it's a great stretch.
8: Corpse Pose
The Corpse Pose is a great way to help with period cramps. It is often used as the ending pose to yoga classes. This pose helps to stretch out the abdomen and hips, which can help to relieve pain. It also helps to focus your mind.
To do this pose, lie on your back on the floor and relax your arms and legs. Let your feet fall open as wide as they want to go and let your chin rest
All these positions are great to help relieve period cramps. Give them a try and let us know which one is your favorite.
