Relieve Your Menstrual Cramps With These 5 Yoga Poses

I know what you are thinking. Woman, I can barely get out of bed, yoga is a far cry. But hear me out. I mean, while you still Netflix and chill with a hot water bag. Pull out your yoga mat and practice these 5 yoga poses which will help you stretch out your hip flexors and uterus muscles. Practice these routine before or during your period, hold each pose for at least 30 seconds, and feel your cramps going away! Those hunger pangs though? You’re on your own there.

1. Dhanurasana – Bow pose

Start off by lying on your belly with your hands on your side. Then, bend your knees, reach back and take hold of your ankles.
Take a deep breath in and pull your torso up and the your thighs away from the floor. You will feel a stretch in your hip flexors.

2. Bhujangasana – Cobra pose

Place your hands under your shoulders and elbows by your chest, inhale as you lift your head and chest off the floor. Draw your shoulders back and but do not crunch your neck. Stay in this position for 20 to 30 seconds and release as you exhale.

3. Janu Shirasana – One-legged Forward bend

Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Bend the right knee outward so your foot touches the inner thigh and now try to touch your ankles. Breathe slowly for a few minutes and repeat the same on your right leg. This will stretch out your spine and the back of your thighs.

4. Ustrasana – Camel pose

Start by kneeling up, with your body and spine straight and bend backward in order to place your hands on your heels.
Your stomach and chest muscles will stretch out completely and your uterus muscles will feel the pull which will help bring the contractions to an end.

5. Eka Pada Rajakapotasana – Pigeon Pose

Last but not the least, sit with right knee bent and left leg extended straight behind your body. Put your hands straight over your head and allow your torso to elongate. Hold here for five breaths, then repeat on other side.