When cramps strike, most of us reach for painkillers or heat packs. But there’s a natural tool that’s always with you, often overlooked: your breath.
Your uterus is a muscle, and just like any other muscle, oxygen helps it relax. Shallow, stressed breathing keeps the body tense, which can make cramps worse. Deep, mindful breathing sends a signal of safety to your nervous system, easing pain and calming your mood.
🌬️ Simple breathwork to try:
- Belly Breathing – Place your hand on your stomach. Inhale deeply through your nose, letting your belly rise, then exhale slowly. Repeat 5–10 times.
- 4-7-8 Technique – Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7, exhale slowly for 8. Helps calm anxiety and relax tense muscles.
- Box Breathing – Inhale for 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4. Repeat. This resets your nervous system.
✨ Benefits of breathwork during periods:
- Reduces cramp intensity
- Lowers cortisol (stress hormone)
- Improves oxygen flow to muscles
- Calms racing thoughts and irritability
- Helps you feel grounded when emotions are intense
You don’t need fancy equipment or lots of time. Just 5 minutes of intentional breathing can shift how you feel. Your breath is your built-in pain relief, waiting to be used. 🌸