Every person experiences their period differently. Though some would agree that it’s not the most enjoyable time of the month, there are ways to help ease period cramping and discomfort.
The following poses are intended for use as a restorative home practice and may help relievemenstrual cramps.Choosing to doyogamay or may not feel good to you during different points in yourmenstrual cycle. Be sure to listen to your body and only opt to practice when it feels best for you.
This article explores different yoga poses forperiod cramps. It will also cover how to alter the poses so you can be as comfortable as possible.
Cobbler’s Pose (Baddha Konasana)
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Since the lower half of the body may feel heavy during menstruation, seated poses can be especially helpful. You may stay in each pose for several minutes.
Baddha Konasana, the Cobbler’s Pose, opens up thepelvic region. For a gentler version, come into a forward bend using a bolster or several folded blankets to support your torso. This may help you relax even more.
Head to Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana)
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To do the pose:
The Head to Knee Pose,Janu Sirsasana,stretches the hamstrings. It’s a simple stretch that allows you to focus on one leg at a time. It also helps you gently lengthen your hips and groin.
Seated Straddle (Upavistha Konasana)
You can go as deep as you’d like here or remain sitting upright. During menstruation, it may not feel comfortable to deeply bend forward. Know that this is totally fine and it’s important to listen to your body.
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
The Seated Forward Bend,Paschimottanasana,goes deeper in opening the hamstrings and calves. It also gives your back a nice stretch.
Be sure to follow your breath as you ease into this bend. Because of your period, you may want to round your spine a little. However, your yoga instructor may advise against doing so.
Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)
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This pose,Setu Bandha Sarvangasana,is similar to a back bend.
This very gentle back-bend can help relieve back pain associated with menstruation.If you’re in a lot of discomfort due to period cramps, it may be a good idea to stick with the shorter option on your yoga block.
Goddess Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)
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You may notice that this is a reclined version of Cobbler’s Pose.Supta Baddha Konasana,Goddess Pose, is all about opening yourgroinand hips while relaxing.
If you can stay in this pose for several minutes, it’s a great way to end your session. Five to 10 minutes in a meditative state in Goddess Pose can help you relax.
Summary
Doing yoga may help relieve period cramp pain and discomfort. Some yoga poses you may consider trying include:
Be sure to check in with yourself often as you practice these poses to make sure you are comfortable. Even if you don’t typically use bolsters or blankets while doing yoga, you may want to use them during your period for a more gentle practice.
What Helps With Period Cramps in or Out of the House
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