Period Pain Hacks: Your Natural Survival Guide

Let’s be real: when that time of the month hits us, ‘functioning like a normal human’ can be a challenge. Periods, and period cramps as a result, aren’t just an issue for some women. It truly acts as an obstacle every month that makes us want to just roll up into a ball and cancel all our plans.

Pain relief medication will always be an alternative, but there may be times when you want your body to heal on its own without interfering with it. Other times, you might want some added assistance aside from your regular daily habit.

The good news: You don’t need a Ph.D. in medicine to start relieving your symptoms. Below, we've included four easy and natural ways to ease your pain and get on with your life.

1.  Turn Up the Heat

So, if there's one thing that can be considered as the Golden Rule about period comfort, it would be this: Heat is your best friend.

During your contractions, your uterus will be contracting, and as a result, your muscles can tighten and cut off your oxygen supply slightly. Applying heat will make your muscles relax and your blood flow better, which will be your pain reliever.

How to do it:

1. Classic Hot Water Bottle: It's a classic for a reason. Fill it up and hold it tight against your lower belly. The warmth will seep deep into your tissues.

2. Stick-on Heat Patches: These are a life-saver if you have school or work. You can put these heating patches directly on your undergarments, and they will provide discreet heating for several hours.

3. Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relax your entire body, as opposed to only relaxing your pelvic muscles. It also helps relieve pain in your lower back, which usually comes with a muscle cramp.

B)  Magic Magnesium

You may have heard about the benefits of taking magnesium for sleep, but it’s also a muscle relaxer.

Magnesium: It prevents calcium from causing a muscle contraction that is too strong. A low level of magnesium in your body may be causing your muscles and your uterus to contract as hard as they are.

How to get it:

1. Dark Chocolate: Yes, this really is an indulgence permit. Dark chocolate, as long as it contains at least 70% chocolate, contains large doses of magnesium. Dark chocolate also contains chemicals that act as mood uplifters.

2. Leafy Greens and Nuts: Spinach, almonds, and pumpkin seeds are rich sources.

3. Supplements or Sprays: There exist magnesium oils which you can spritz directly on your skin. You can also mix powders with water. (Note: It is necessary to check with your doctor before taking any supplement.)

C)  Gentle Yoga (No Headstands Required)

The thing about being in pain, though, is that the last thing you want to be doing is exercising. We aren’t talking about going on a marathon running session or heavy weightlifting. We are talking about gentle stretching.

Exercise leads to the release of endorphins, which are your body

3 Poses to Try:

1.  Child’s Pose: KNEEL on the floor with your knees apart and your upper body leaning forward with your forehead on the floor/mat. It stretches your lower back.

2.  Cat-Cow: On your hands and knees, alternate as if you are a cat and then as if you are a cow. It loosens your pelvic area.

3.  Butterfly Lying on Back: Lying on your back with your knees bent and your knees dropping apart with your feet soles together. This helps relax your hips, which are usually tight and tense.

  D) Sip On Herbal Tea

Staying hydrated is essential during your period because it will help eliminate bloating, meaning your cramping will be exacerbated. However, drinking cold water instead of warm herbal tea may have twice the advantage.

The Best Brews for Cramps:

1. Ginger Tea: Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce the chemicals your body produces that bring about pain.

2. Peppermint Tea:  As it cools inside your body, peppermint works wonders for an ill stomach, which usually arises due to period pains.

3.  Chamomile Tea: It acts as an anti-anxiety drug and at the same time works on relieving muscle spasms as well as PMS-associated irritations. 

The Bottom Line As it's clear, no two bodies are the same. Some months a hot water bottle will be all you need, while other months you may require the whole works: yoga, chocolate, and tea. Perhaps. Maybe. Hopefully. First and foremost, it’s imperative to listen to your body and provide it with rest. You’re not lazy; you’re healing.