How to Beat your Cramps like a Pro

Stick a fork in me, I’m done. Menstrual cramps and period symptoms are THE WORST! Here are some tips and tricks to
making it through your period like a champ.

1. Continue Aerobic Exercise: Endorphins can boost your mood and act as a natural pain reliever. Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, rowing, and biking can get your blood and heart pumping and naturally release endorphins. This can assist with cramps, fatigue, inflammation, etc.
2. Have an Orgasm: Orgasms release more endorphins! If sex isn’t painful during your period, give it a try, or get there by yourself. It increases circulation, can decrease the length of your period, and can decrease cramps associated with your period.
3. Get Plenty of Rest: Females are amazing, seriously, we can bleed for days on end and not only survive, but thrive. So give yourself a break and be sure to schedule a little extra time for rest, meditation, or general down time. It will give you time to recover and recharge mentally, physically, and emotionally.
4. Try to Eat Healthier: I know, this is like telling someone to get a bucket of water when the house is on fire. A low-fat, vegetarian diet can decrease inflammation within the body which and alleviate period pain. If you are regular and know when you are supposed to have your period, try to meal prep ahead of time with low-fat plant based food options. Otherwise, seek healthy plant based foods while you are on your period to reduce cramps and inflammation across the body.
5. Heating Pad: Whether it is store bought or homemade, a heating pad is a wonderful natural way to relax and alleviate cramps.  One study suggests that it can provide as much relief as anti-inflammatories.  The optimal temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit.  The key is to give it time and do not make yourself uncomfortable with too much heat.  Slow and steady wins the race with heating pads, so relax and cozy up!
6. Consider Anti-Inflammatories: Consider taking an anti-inflammatory medication while on your period. Cramps occur because of the releases of prostaglandins, anti-inflammatories can lower prostaglandin production, and thus decrease your cramps and inflammation. 
7. Be Kind to Yourself: Many individuals experience bloating, cramping, hormonal swings, fatigue, etc., during their period. It isn’t shocking that helplessness, doubt, and negative thoughts can appear. Remember to be kind to yourself.