Period Pain: Causes and Simple Habits That Provide Relief
From Cramps to Comfort: Simple Period Care Tips Every Woman Should Know: Every month, women experience menstrual or period pain. Although menstruation is a natural bodily process, the pain can interfere with daily activities. Common symptoms include abdominal cramps, back pain, fatigue, irritability, and a feeling of heaviness.
According to Ayurveda, period pain is linked to an imbalance of Vata dosha in the body. Modern science explains that the pain is caused by prostaglandins, chemicals released in the uterus that lead to muscle contractions. Since period pain can sometimes be severe, adopting the right daily habits can help provide relief.
Habits That Can Ease Period Pain
1. Drink Warm or Lukewarm Water
- Drinking warm or lukewarm water during periods, especially in winter, helps reduce pain.
- Ayurveda states that warm water strengthens Agni (digestive fire) and removes internal coldness.
- Starting the day with a glass of warm water helps relax uterine muscles.
- Scientifically, warm water improves blood circulation, reduces abdominal tightness and swelling, and gradually eases cramps.
- Herbal teas can also be helpful.
2. Take a Bath with Lukewarm Water
- Lukewarm water bathing is ideal during periods, particularly in cold weather.
- Cold water can tighten muscles and worsen cramps, while warm water provides comfort.
- In Ayurveda, this practice is known as swedana, which helps release stiffness in the body.
- From a scientific perspective, warm water soothes nerves and reduces pain signals.
3. Do Yoga or Light Exercise
- Light exercise or yoga can significantly reduce period pain.
- Yoga helps balance Vata dosha and improves blood flow to the abdominal area.
- Simple stretching or gentle yoga poses relax muscles and reduce cramps.
- Science shows that exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which help reduce pain and improve mood.
4. Do Not Skip Breakfast
- Eating breakfast during periods is essential, as women often feel weak or dizzy.
- A light, nutritious meal helps maintain energy levels.
- Ayurveda recommends easily digestible foods that provide strength.
- Bananas, nuts, seeds, fruits, and green vegetables replenish essential nutrients.
- Magnesium and potassium help relax muscles and reduce cramps, while natural foods lower inflammation.
5. Use Heat Therapy
- Applying heat using a hot water bottle or heating pad helps relieve abdominal pain.
- Ayurveda considers this external heat therapy effective for loosening internal congestion.
- Scientifically, heat increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and reduces pain-causing chemicals.
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