Like most women, you have probably experienced menstrual cramps also referred to as “dysmenorrhea”. Approximately 3%-8% of women experience severe symptoms that disrupt their daily function and meet the criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) a severe form of PMS.
At her first bleeding a woman meets her power. During her bleeding years she practices it. At menopause she becomes it.
Traditional Native American saying
Dysmenorrhea is primarily caused by the contraction of the uterus where the congestion of blood flow. During each menstrual cycle, the uterus contracts to expel the lining. Uterine contractions cause most of the pain during the menstrual cramps as conditions inhibit the flow of blood to the lining of the uterus. Heavy uterine contractions may press against close blood vessels, reducing the oxygen supply to the uterus muscle tissue and results when parts of the muscles lose oxygen supply.
Fortunately, there are some natural ways to relieve these monthly pains during your cycle. I’ve listed 5 ways to beat your menstrual cramps and get through an effortless moon cycle in your life.
1. Essential Oils
Eucalyptus has been used for long periods for its medicinal properties. It is derived from eucalyptus tree and leaves by steam distillation process. The oil has antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it useful in managing headaches, breathlessness, cough and fever. It acts a decongestant and reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Eucalyptus oil is an excellent way to reduce the pain experienced from menstrual cramps with Eucalyptus Campanulata as recommended type because it works best out of the other Eucalyptus oils. I’ve been blending lavender, geranium, and marjoram. These oils are excellent for cramping. You can rub some oil on your womb space and rest a warm water bag on the uterus.
2. Movement is key
When in pain, the last thing you want is to strain yourself with vigorous exercises, thus slow moving practices like yin yoga is a great pain alleviator. Intense and extended exercises can actually worsen the problem when experiencing menstrual pain.
Choose gentle, low impact exercises like swimming or walking at a slow pace. Exercises that rock your pelvis, such as pelvic tilts can be beneficial as they increase the flow of blood, which makes the cramps go away. Focus more on relaxing exercises during your moon cycle. Take time for yourself in meditation and self-love practices.
Here is a 15 min video on Yoga for your menstrual cycle by SarahBethYoga
Eating a variety of colorful organic fruits and vegetables, raw nuts and seeds, fresh-pressed vegetable and fruit juices (70% vegetables and 30% fruit) and smoothies are a great place to support your body’s nutritional needs. It needs living energy to cope with the physiological changes taking place. I can suggest the following:
Maca root
Maca is a simply a cruciferous root found mainly in Peru and has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. It has for a long time, been used a traditional food and is believed to provide strength and endurance as well as enhancing fertility and supporting menstruation.
Fatty fish
Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids that not only help heart health but also acts as an anti-inflammatory to help with cramps and bloating. Cod liver oil contains Omega-3 and other vital vitamins and minerals; it is a popular choice within fatty fishes.
Magnesium and calcium
These minerals are known to reduce muscle soreness. Research suggests that 1200 mg of calcium every day can lessen menstrual symptoms. Raw milk is a great source of minerals.
I also like to eat water-based foods to increase my hydration levels, such as lettuce, watermelon, celery, and cucumbers.
4. Cleanse your body with water
Drinking plenty of water may relieve menstrual pain. In fact, research shows that drinking water is one of the easiest ways to avoid PMS. If you are experiencing unbearable pain during your menstrual period, water helps to reduce bloating pain during menstruation. Warm water is the best for cramps, as it will accelerate blood circulation in addition to helping you relax cramped muscles. You can also eat water-based foods to increase your hydration levels, such as lettuce, watermelon, celery, and cucumbers. I also suggest some warm herbal tea’s with no caffeine.
5. Cinnamon and Tumeric
Cinnamon has always been used to alleviate actual congestion of colds and allergies and is now used to aid in digestion. It has also been researched for its menstrual cramps soothing properties. Additionally, this spice is rich in dietary fiber, calcium along with iron and manganese, which also help relieve signs and symptoms of menstrual cramps. I love to make myself a Golden Milk latte. Whisk coconut milk, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, honey, coconut oil, peppercorns, and 1 cup water in a small saucepan; bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer until flavors have melded about 10 minutes
This is only a few of the many remedies that can assist you, I offer online coaching and workshops on a healthy menstruation cycle”. MoonStruation is when the female reproductive system functions in sync with the phases of the moon. This is our most natural state.
MoonStruation – To Understand, Heal and Harness the Ever-Changing Energy of your Moonstrual Cycle.
Do you suffer from these most common monthly discomforts?
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Headaches
- Backache
You no longer have to suffer alone! I can help!
It has been proven that women are able to have comfortable and regular menstrual cycles without the use of hormones and toxic medication. With a few lifestyle changes, including diet, sleep, the reduction of stress and asana, our menstrual cycle can be something that we celebrate as it represents the gift of life and femininity. In addition to the effort women put into a MoonStruation program, our attitudes towards menstruation need to change. We are not our mind, however, our thoughts influence the way we perceive the world and therefore positive thought generates positive action.
For more info on workshops, retreats and online healing sessions visit www.FollowYourBlissCR.com or email me HERE.