The female body runs on a 28-29 day hormonal cycle affecting everything from our mood to energy levels. For some, their period comes and goes smoothly. Yet, others experience various symptoms, the most common being abdominal cramping.
When it comes to any symptom it’s imperative to identify the root cause. Yet, treating them as they appear is also important.
Here are 6 Ways to Reduce Menstrual Cramps ...
Magnesium Glycinate — Known to aid sleep, energy and digestion. Magnesium glycinate also relieves cramps as it acts as a muscle relaxant. Glycinate is recommended for menstrual cramps as it’s the most absorbable form and is easiest on the stomach. For dosage, check the packaging.
Personally, I take 1000mg daily and increase the dosage to 1500mg a week before my cycle and for the first two to three days. Taking too much magnesium can have a laxative effect. Therefore, start low and build up or consult a holistic practitioner.
Topical Magnesium — Topical magnesium works wonders for cramping, as it can be absorbed directly through the skin.
Follow the @Grimhood recipe below to mix a solution of magnesium chloride spray to apply topically ...
Heat Pack — When applied to the lower abdomen heat packs are incredibly effective to reduce cramping. The applied heat increases blood flow to the site, relaxing your muscles in that area — allowing an easing of pain associated with menstrual cramping.
Essential oils (diluted) can also be combined to assist with pain relief. Personal favourites include Lavender, Peppermint and Rose. Massage onto the abdomen before applying the heat pack. Avoid applying packs directly to the skin, wrap in a sheet or towel and use over clothing.
Self Acupressure — Acupressure, similar to acupuncture focuses on applying pressure to certain meridian points of the body to regulate energy blockages or stagnation. When applied to oneself acupressure is particularly intuitive but is based on finding and activating ...
specific pressure points and activating them to relieve related blockages. For menstrual cramps, Large Intestine 4, Kidney 6 and Spleen 8 are personal favourites. Apply pressure for between 3 deep breaths to 90 secs as you feel tenderness and cramping begin to subside.
Herbal Teas — Similar to applying heat externally to relieve cramping, a warm herbal tea can work wonders internally. Favourites include Peppermint, Spearmint and Ginger to aid digestion and Dandelion to assist liver detoxification. Also, Chamomile to help overall relaxation.
Cycle Syncing — Our hormones are greatly influenced by our diet, exercise, sleep, stress levels and energy management. Cycle syncing involves modifying these elements to support the body through each menstrual cycle phase. Personally, I’ve found adjusting my diet and exercise
to suit my cycle has significantly improved symptoms associated with menstruation. Adjusting exercise has also seen drastic improvements in performance. Recently started 28 by Evie and highly recommend it for exercise tutorials & mood/food insights.
See 28.co
Most importantly, it’s imperative to identify and treat the root cause of menstrual cramping. Many factors can contribute, including gut issues, hormonal imbalances, etc. While the above can help in the short-medium term, one should identify and heal root causes.
For more info related to your cycle, I’d recommend reading the following ...
Nurturing your feminine energy is imperative for women to become their highest selves. In doing so, you develop an unwavering trust in life, live more in the present, and embody a knowing that you are divinely protected and supported.
Know Your Cycle — Women's bodies follow a 28-29 day cycle influencing everything from our emotions to our energy. Within this cycle are four phases — Menstruation, Follicular, Ovulation and Luteal.
Understanding your cycle and how you feel within each phase can better help you plan & acknowledge what your body needs, allowing you to work in harmony with the natural flow of your body's energy. Look into cycle syncing, moon cycles and seed cycling for more information.