Author- Anika Singh
Editor- Navya Om Agnihotri
It's no secret that our bodies don't always feel their best while we're menstruating or in the days prior. This may be a difficult time to get through, with cramps, bloating, tiredness, mood changes, and other symptoms. Moreover, it happens every month, giving the impression that there is no end in sight.
The good news is that with a few self-care and wellness strategies, you may be able to reduce some of the discomfort you feel throughout your menstrual cycle and premenstrual period.
Here are some of the finest ways to pamper yourself throughout your menstrual cycle and in the days leading up to it.
1. Make Eating Healthy a Priority
Check out our post on "How to Relieve Stress During Periods" on Pinkishe's Instagram handle. https://www.instagram.com/p/CRdtzaihvF-/
"GIVE US JUNKFOOD!!"
Well, almost every girl starts craving junk food, carbs, and especially a bar of good old chocolate as soon as their periods set in. However, they can drain your energy while also contributing to mood changes, bloating, and water retention.
Instead of grabbing cookies, bagels, and other empty carbs, focus on protein and healthy fats to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, fiber to promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating, and lots of water to aid digestion, hormone regulation, and hydration. It would be best if you also ate a diverse diet high in all required vitamins and minerals for your body.
2. Make Sure to Get the Right Amount of Rest
Have you ever noticed how tired you are or how difficult it is to sleep when your period is present or approaching?
You're not alone. Getting adequate sleep throughout your period and premenstrual period might help you feel more energized and help your hormones regulate. To establish an atmosphere that promotes you to sleep well, make sure your room is at a comfortable temperature, turn off screens a few hours before you want to sleep, and stick to a plan where you wake up and go to bed same time every day. Remember, rest is important to rejuvenate your mind and body.
3. Stay Active
Although you generally want to stay tucked in bed during this time of the month, a little exercise might help reduce some of your PMS and period symptoms. A yoga session, going for a walk, or just simple breathing exercises may relieve tension, bloating, and cramping, and a walk or run may stimulate your body to generate mood-enhancing endorphins.
Keep an eye on your energy levels and pick an exercise that feels good, keeping in mind that just because you're on your period doesn't mean you should avoid high-intensity workouts at all times. In fact, you may have more energy and power towards the start of your period than usual. However, if you're feeling weary, listen to your body and perform a gentle or restorative workout.
4. Take a Relaxing Bath or Use a Heating Pad
Whether from a heating pad, a warm bath, or a hot shower, heat is one of the most effective methods to relieve tension and discomfort associated with cramps or muscular soreness.
It can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling in the area.
Furthermore, it may make you feel calmer and at ease in general. For an additional dose of pain relief, add some Epsom salt to your bath.
5. Maintain Intimate Cleanliness
When washing your vaginal region, simply use clean water; no detergents or special lotions! Scents and chemicals included in soaps and lotions might actually increase the likelihood of irritation. Antibiotic overuse should also be avoided whenever possible and reasonable.
Synthetics and plastics obstruct the free passage of air, trap heat and moisture, and may promote the growth of yeast and germs in your vaginal region, causing irritation, rashes, and other problems. For the stitched inlay of your underwear, cotton should be used.
Head over to Pinkishe's Instagram handle for more information on "Feminine Hygiene Hacks". https://www.instagram.com/p/CRLuAmxgv00/
6. Keep a Journal
Maintaining a journal is ideal for several reasons. On a basic level, you will be able to detect patterns in your mood, changes in your body, and variances in your cycle (like your own period-tracker). Also, if you suffer from anxiety, getting your ideas out of your mind and writing them down may be pretty beneficial. This is an excellent method of mental self-care during your period.
If journaling isn't your thing, you might instead try a period tracking app! Many period tracking apps and devices are available that have helpful features that can keep track and predict your upcoming cycles.
7. Don’t Forget to Pamper Yourself
Take advantage of this time to pamper yourself. Try some self-care activities such as nail painting, pedicures, a soothing hair spa, and so much more. If you enjoy reading, choose your favorite book and read it. Try any activity that makes you feel better and boosts your attitude.
Menstrual cycles are messy. They are not only physically and emotionally exhausting, but they can occur at inconvenient moments. Even if you have a hectic schedule, it is critical to emphasize self-care while on your period. These might be small things, such as tracking what you eat or devoting a few minutes each day to meditation and journaling. If you have some leisure time, consider exercising or pouring yourself a lovely cup of tea! Don't forget to bring a couple of pads or tampons with you!
Rest, Love Yourself, Repeat
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