9 Yoga Asanas To Try For Different Menstrual Problems

Yoga stands as an ancient practice, offering a holistic approach to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Its essence lies in fostering harmony between mind and body, a balance sought in every phase of life, including the tumultuous period cycles. Amidst the upheaval that menstruation brings, yoga emerges as a nurturing ally.

The natural rhythms of the body undergo a monthly metamorphosis during menstruation, accompanied by hormonal fluctuations unique to each individual. From abdominal cramps to irregular periods and the discomfort of bloating, these menstrual symptoms are familiar companions. Additionally, the spectrum extends to Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), unveiling irritability, mood swings, cravings, and emotional shifts. Enter yoga during periods—an oasis of relief tailored to alleviate these distinct symptoms. Surprisingly, various yoga asanas cater to specific symptoms, each offering a unique solace. Delve deeper to uncover these practices and their targeted benefits.

# Dhanurasana (Bow pose)

Dhanurasana is amongst the best asanas of yoga to regulate periods. To perform this asana, lie down on your stomach. Inhale, bend your legs backwards, stretch your arms backwards, and hold on to your feet. Your entire body weight will now be on your stomach. Hold the position for 20 seconds, exhale and slowly return to the lie-down position. Do five repetitions.

# Ustrasana (Camel Pose)

Yoga for irregular periods must include Ustrasana. Kneel on the floor, keeping your shoulders and knees aligned. Inhale and stretch backwards slowly. Position your hands on your hips and push them forward. Drop your head backwards. Hold the position for 20 seconds. Exhale and return to the original position slowly. Do five repetitions.

# Malasana (Garland/Squatting Pose)

Keeping your feet hip apart, squat down on your feet. Start spreading your knees outwards, wider than your torso. Bring your hands together, placing your elbows in the inner thighs, further pushing the knees outward. Hold the position for 20 seconds. Exhale slowly and return to the original position. Do five repetitions.

# Baddha Konasana (Cobbler’s Pose)

As the lower part of the body feels extremely heavy during a menstrual cycle, sitting in the cobbler’s pose can be helpful. To do so, sit on the floor with the knees bent and your feet soles touching each other. Pull in your feet closer to the pelvis and keep your head high and back absolutely straight. To escalate to the butterfly pose, start flapping your thighs up and down, keeping your feet fixed and grounded.

# Upavistha Konasana (Seated Straddle)

A perfect pose to stretch your hamstring and inner thighs, Upavistha Konasana helps you feel comfortable during menstruation. Sit on the ground and open your legs wide apart. Keep your back and head straight, bend down slowly to hold your toes without bending the knees. Hold the position for 20 seconds. Exhale and get back to the original position slowly.

# Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

There are many benefits associated with Paschimottanasana and alleviating menstrual discomfort is definitely one of the best benefits. To do this yoga for periods, sit on the floor with both legs stretched outwards without bending the knees. Keeping your back straight, gently bend forward and reach out for your toes. Rest your head on your knees and hold the position for a few seconds.

# Balasana (Child’s pose)

Helping in easing the unexplained stretch experienced in the body during periods, Balasana leads you to a state of calmness and relaxation. To perform this asana, sit on your knees with your buttocks touching your heels. Slowly bend forward with your arms stretching in front, place your forehead on the ground. Stay in the pose for a few seconds, then exhale and return to the original position.

# Makarasana (Crocodile Pose)

Regularly doing this pose of yoga during periods helps get rid of stomach bloating, indigestion, and constipation – common PMS symptoms that surface during menstruation. The pose is also effective in relieving muscular stretch from the body. To do this pose, lie down on the floor, resting on your stomach. Gently lift your head, hands, and legs from the floor, making your body balance on your stomach. Feel the full-body stretch and hold the position for a few seconds before you get back to the original position.

# Padahastasana (Standing Forward Bend)

A perfect pose to reduce irritability, anxiety, and depression symptoms, the Padahastasana can prove effective to ward off PMS symptoms linked to the nervous system. To do this asana, stand upright. Slowly bend down to make your hands touch your feet. Make sure you do not bend your knees. Remain in the position for a while and then gently get back to the original position. Do 5 repetitions.