7 Effective yoga poses to relieve menstrual pain

Menstrual discomfort is a common issue that many women face during their monthly cycles. While there are various remedies available, yoga has proven to be a natural and effective solution.

In this article, we will explore seven powerful yoga poses specifically designed to ease menstrual pain and promote overall well-being.

1. Child’s Pose (Balasana)

Child’s Pose is a gentle resting pose that helps to relax the pelvic muscles and relieve lower back pain associated with menstruation. To perform this pose:

Kneel on the floor, sitting back on your heels.

Gently bend forward, extending your arms in front of you.

Rest your forehead on the floor or a prop, such as a folded blanket.

Breathe deeply and hold the pose for several minutes.

2. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

Cat-Cow Pose is a dynamic movement that increases blood flow to the pelvic area, reducing menstrual cramps. Follow these steps to perform the pose:

Start on all fours with your hands beneath your shoulders and knees below your hips.

Inhale, arch your back, and lift your head, creating a concave shape (Cow Pose).

Exhale, round your spine upward, tucking your chin to your chest (Cat Pose).
 

Alternate between the two poses, synchronizing your breath with the movement.
 

3. Supine Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)

The Supine Twist helps to relieve tension in the lower back, hips, and abdomen. This pose stimulates digestion, reduces bloating, and provides relief from menstrual discomfort. Here’s how to practice it:

Lie flat on your back with your arms extended to the sides.

Bend your right knee and cross it over your left side, allowing it to rest on the floor.

Turn your head to the right, gazing in the opposite direction.

Hold the pose for several breaths before switching sides.
 

4. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

Bridge Pose is beneficial for menstrual pain relief as it stretches the abdomen and lower back while improving blood circulation. Follow these steps to perform the pose:

Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

Place your arms by your sides, palms facing down.

Inhale and press your feet into the floor, lifting your hips off the ground.

Interlace your fingers beneath your hips and extend through your arms.

Hold the pose for a minute while breathing deeply.

5. Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)

Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose is a restorative inversion that helps to relieve menstrual cramps, reduce fatigue, and promote relaxation. To practice this pose:

Sit sideways with one hip against a wall.

Swing your legs up the wall while lowering your back to the floor.

Adjust your body so that your hips are as close to the wall as comfortable.

Relax your arms by your sides and close your eyes.

Stay in this pose for 10-15 minutes, focusing on deep, slow breaths.
 

6. Reclining Bound Angle Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)

The Reclining Bound Angle Pose is a restorative posture that opens the hips, stretches the inner thighs, and helps relieve menstrual discomfort. Follow these steps to perform the pose:

Lie on your back and bring the soles of your feet together, allowing your knees to fall outward.

Support your knees with blocks or folded blankets if necessary.

Place your arms by your sides, palms facing up.

Close your eyes and breathe deeply, allowing your body to relax.
 

7. Corpse Pose (Savasana)

Corpse Pose is a final relaxation pose that helps to calm the body and mind. It allows for deep rest and rejuvenation, alleviating stress and reducing menstrual pain.

Here’s how to practice it:

Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms by your sides.

Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath.

Relax your entire body, releasing any tension or discomfort.

Stay in this pose for 5-10 minutes, focusing on deep relaxation.