Fitness

5 Yoga Poses to Calm Cramps

February 9, 2015  |  By: Whitney E. RD

This post is sponsored by Stayfree® on behalf of Mode Media but all photos and opinions are mine.

There’s no point in beating around the bush about it — the ladies out there know that simple things like eating healthy and working out get increasingly difficult during that time of the month.

Between sugar cravings, bloating and cramps, sometimes all I really want to do during my period is curl up on the couch in my sweats with a heating pad and a pint of froyo.

Staying active during this uncomfortable time though is actually a great way to alleviate many of the symptoms of PMS.

Personally, I enjoy doing yoga — specifically certain poses that help ease menstrual pain.

Today I’m teaming up with Stayfree as a part of their Change Challenge to inspire women to make healthy choices, like incorporating a yoga routine into your everyday life. With the purchase of any Stayfree product, you get a one month subscription to My Yoga on Gaiam TV where you can try tons of free online routines.

They also have an awesome library of all the essential yoga poses and today I’ve chosen my top 5 for easing cramps. Try these moves the next time you feel like a grumpy, bloated mess — I guarantee you’ll be feeling great after!

5 Yoga Poses for Cramps

Bow Pose

This pose stretches the entire front of the body and strengthens the back – which can ease lower back pain associated with cramps. Advocates also say it stimulates blood flow to the abdomen, which can relieve pain and bloating.

Reaching Camel Pose

Again, this pose stretches the front of the body, strengthens the back and brings blood flow to the organs in the abdomen.

Cobra

Another one to strengthen the lower back, some yogis also describe this move as a “massage for your internal organs.”

Fish Pose

Yogis say this odd-looking pose can help reduce anxiety and fatigue, commonly associated with PMS.

Arched Half Pigeon

Top: Indiana Excel Tank // Leggings: BL Sportswear 

This move is thought to increase circulation to the urinary, digestive, and reproductive systems as well as helping with lower back pain.

*Note: Use caution when trying new yoga poses. If you have back or neck injuries, high blood pressure, or you’re pregnant, you may want to avoid some of these poses.

Weigh In: Do you do yoga to help with PMS? What are your favorite yoga poses for cramps?

A message from Stayfree:

New year, new you! Yoga is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle and who better to lead the yoga-lution than you. Inspired by athletic wear, Stayfree® pads feature flexible layers that move with your body from child’s pose to side crow. Visit Stayfree.com to find which product best fits you or visit our Facebook to learn more about our mission. Also, don’t forget to use your Stayfree® purchase to get a 30-Day membership to My Yoga on Gaiam TV and access FREE yoga classes online now through March 12!