While most women would say that menstruation is our more difficult time of the month, it doesn’t have to be. Our menstrual cycle can also be a great time to become more creative and get in tune with self. Menstruation is a natural body function that most women between the ages of 11 – 49 manage monthly. According to womenshealth.gov, The menstrual cycle is the hormonal process a woman’s body goes through each month to prepare for a possible pregnancy. Regular menstrual periods in the years between puberty and menopause are usually a sign that your body is working normally. Since periods are a normal part of life for most women, here are a few tips to have your best period yet.
Eat Healthily
While we may crave sugary and salty foods, consuming more fruits and veggies will give us the energy and strength we need as our hormones start fluctuating. changing your diet during this time of the month can help you to manage your symptoms with a bit more ease.
Limit Alcohol & Caffeine
Trust me on this, alcohol and caffeine can spike your mood causing you to lash out on those around you and no one deserves that. Even worse, you may find your inner critic speaking more negative thoughts than usual. Do yourself and those around you a favor and stick to water this week.
Self-Care is Key
Do a facial Mask, Paint your nails, Drink herbal tea and catch up on that book you’ve been reading for the last month. Spend time pouring back into yourself by doing activities that you love. You will find yourself feeling more balanced when you take the time to do the things that make you feel good.
Get your Rest
This is no time to be up all night, especially if you have to be up early the next day. During menstruation, your body is doing a lot of work and getting enough sleep is essential to feeling your best. While falling asleep may be more difficult during this time, make the effort to get into bed little earlier to give your body the rest it needs to perform at your best.
Get Creative
This is your most creative time of the month. Use that creative energy to start or finish a passion project. Go painting or even cook a delicious meal for yourself. Take advantage of this cleansing energy by tossing out the old and creating new ways of doing things.
Try non-toxic products
While you may have an arsenal of go-to products to handle your monthly bleed. More research is being done on mainstream pads and tampons to indicate that these products contain harmful toxins. One alternative option gaining popularity is the menstrual cup which is typically made of silicone and is inserted into the vagina. It can be worn for up to 12 hours and it is reusable. I have tried the Diva Cup and I do like it as an alternative to pads. Learning to use the Diva Cup does take a bit of practice but once you get the hang of it, you may come to enjoy the ease it provides. Other non-toxic feminine hygiene products include; “Natracare, Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Organic Cotton Tampons, Glad Rags Organic Pads and Organyc 100% Organic Cotton Tampons.
If you still want to learn about having a better period and overall feminine health, download a fun period app like Eve by Glow. When it comes to your period, don’t dread it, own it!
I need to practice pretty much all of these. The only thing I’ve ever done during my period is exercise, which helps with cramps. I definitely need to do more to be able to handle it in all aspects.