3 Yoga Poses to Help with Menstrual Cramps

When that time of the month comes, the last thing on your mind is exercise, the go to position is curling up in a ball, on the sofa and hold yourself until the pain goes away.

One woman believes that we should be doing the opposite. Yoga enthusiast, Florence Lefebvre explains that certain yoga poses ease the pain when pesky menstrual cramps emerge.

The London based Yogi has 3 positions for women to try during their visit from mother nature.

Full Forward Bend

This pose consists of sitting with your legs flat in front of you and leaning over and reaching your feet.

It is said to have a calming and re-energising affect.

Florence says, ‘This helps alleviate menstrual discomfort by the extending the back and the gentle pressure of the abdomen against the thighs.’

Knees to Chest

Similar to the notion of curling up in a ball when period pain occurs. _Aspanasanais a nice way to apply gentle pressure on your abdomen, it slowly massages the area as you breathe in and out.

‘Try lying on your back with your knees to your chest before rocking side to side to really target the lower back which is also a sensitive area during moon cycles’ – states Florence.

Childs Pose

This position is designed to stretch your back.

It consists on lying on your knees as. They sit between your hips a

Florence explains ‘You get that lovely feeling of being curled up, warm and safe while massaging your abdominal area through the rise and fall of your belly as you breathe in and out deeply.’

Gynaecologist, Dr Anne Henderson agrees with the yoga instructor as it has a ‘calming influence on the body.’

‘Any form of exercise will increase circulating endorphins and any other “positive hormones” which enhances a sense of wellbeing and prevents the draining fatigue which can accompany periods – all beneficial.’

‘The relaxing benefits of yoga can also help reduce other symptoms such as breast tenderness and muscle pains.’