Yoga During Menstruation: 4 Tips To Keep In Mind

August 24, 2015

Yes, there’s no running away from your period, even if you want to. And we understand that the discomfort, pain, fatigue and cramps can make you miserable. Though many women pop over-the-counter pills to ease the trouble, the ancient practice of yoga can be a better way to deal with this monthly ordeal.

Every woman experiences menstruation differently. While many try to ignore it, others associate it with guilt, non-cleanliness and negative thoughts. Yoga can help you shun the negative emotions and relax the body during this time. Several yoga poses are also known to relieve pain, fatigue and irritability during the menstrual periods. However, experts advise against overdoing them. Here are some tips to keep in mind while practicing yoga on those days.

1. Avoid Doing Inversions For An Extended Period Of Time
Inversion poses put your uterus in a position where it could lead to occlusion of veins (against the gravity) thus conflicting with your regular flow. This can increase cramps in some women, while also stressing the body out. However, this is a personal decision and if you feel that a light headstand will make you feel better, then go ahead and do it—just be mindful of not over-stressing the body.

2. Consider Modifying Poses
Speak to your yoga teacher about modifying some poses to comply with your special needs. If you feel a tightening in your abdomen while doing any pose, abort it immediately. This is a signal from the body that there is too much pressure on the uterus. Instead focus on restorative poses such as the child’s pose, garland pose and cat pose. Backbends like bow pose and camel pose can also relieve cramps while still being easy on the system.

3. Go Easy On Your Yoga Gear
While you may be a fashion-forward yogi, slow things down a notch when you’re menstruating, as tight-fitting clothes can increase discomfort during practice. Menstruation often results in a slight increase in body temperature, so clothes made of spandex or other synthetic materials should be avoided.

4. Embrace Meditation
What’s better than journeying back to the corners of your mind and imbibing the calm and strength through meditation? It will help your body relieve stress, while also shifting your focus from any pain and discomfort.

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