A missive on mitigating menstrual maladies by your maven of menses, Super Ninja Jennifer Frankel.
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I love being a girl. Especially a girl Ninja. There’s so many things that are awesome about it. Except when Aunt Flo shows up, unpacks her luggage, and tries to destroy my week. And just when I was in the middle if nailing it. Booooooooo, Aunt Flo. For some of us our period doesn’t present much of an issue, but for other of us less fortunate females, it really impacts our lives. Here are some fitness tips that I’ve found keep me on track with my workouts during that time of the month.
- Workout. Really. Even if you don’t feel like it. I’ve found that I usually feel much better after and studies show that exercising during your period may help reduce cramps, fatigue, and irritability.
- Stick to the basics. Try not to progress your weights/reps/movements during this time. We are down a peg during our period. Now’s not the time to try the heavy bell. Our immune system is a little less effective, our equilibrium is off, and we’re probably feeling tired. You don’t want to push yourself and make things worse.
- Have a cuppa joe! Coffee contains caffeine which can lessen cramps and help reduce headache pain. If you don’t do coffee have some tea. It may also put a little pep in your step. Double bonus.
- Get hot. I love a heated wrap when my cramps are on high. Most drug stores carry air activated, stick on, heated wraps. Wearing one while you’re on the move is a great way to keep cramps from ruining your workout. Also it just feels like a warm, cozy hug.
- Water water water. We always need water, but we really need it now. I know you feel bloated, but drinking water will help you flush the toxins that might be giving you that general malaise that often accompanies our monthly bill.
- Stretch. To reduce low back pain during cramps try a nice long child’s pose. A quadruped cat/cow stretch using deep breaths while you flex and extend the spine does wonders for the soul. Another stretch I love that also helps alleviate cramps is to lay on your back with the soles of your feet together and knees apart. Breathe deeply and Ahhhhhhh…. cramps be gone.
I hope these suggestions are helpful! Always feel free to reach out with specific questions. Here’s to the ninja ladies rocking it!!!