It’s a month that brings a whole host of changes for many of us: mood swings, cramps and fatigue, to list but a few. That’s right, it’s the time of the month – the menstrual cycle. For too long, it’s been a taboo subject, but today we’re here to break the cycle and talk about the importance of managing menstrual health. Join us as we explore the different ways you can cope with the physical and emotional changes associated with periods and the accompanying discomfort throughout the month.
1. Taking Ownership of Menstrual Health
Menstrual health is a fundamental component of our overall well-being, and it is necessary for us to take ownership and prioritize it.
Whether it is understanding our cycles, having an open discussion with our family and friends, or visiting a doctor to get the most accurate information – we must not leave our menstrual health up to chance. Taking control and ownership of our reproductive health empowers us to make educated decisions about our bodies.
Here are a few ways we can start taking ownership of our menstrual health:
- Knowing our schedule – tracking our cycles and taking note of any changes can help us gain insight into our reproductive health.
- Being informed and speaking up – learn about the different aspects of menstrual and reproductive health, and don’t be afraid to ask any questions.
- Making healthy lifestyle changes – getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising are all important elements for effective reproductive health.
- Talking to our peers and mentors – having open discussions about menstrual health can help to reduce the stigma and increase awareness.
It is essential that we realize the power of taking ownership of our menstrual health, and commit to making it a priority in our daily lives. By doing this, we are actively striving towards a healthier life.
2. Assessing What Works for You
Once you’ve identified different methods for achieving your personal and professional goals, you can begin to assess what works best for you. Here are a few tips to make your assessment more effective:
- Focus your energy on developing solutions and strategies tailored to your individual needs.
- Analyze and discuss your goals with an accountability partner.
- Regularly break your goals down into smaller, more manageable tasks.
- Allow change and be open to feedback.
Nobody’s journey works in the same way, and it’s important that your strategies are suitable for your goals and dynamic enough to adjust to the changes your life presents. As you experiment with different approaches, you may quickly realize that what works for one person may not work for you. That doesn’t mean failing, it simply means trying a different approach or skill. Even when you encounter setbacks, remind yourself that the aim isn’t to reach your goals in a week, but to thoughtfully strive for them over time.
Continually assessing what works and doesn’t work for you can help you discover more effective methods, as well as cultivate resilience. You may find that your progress is inconsistent, but by consistently evaluating and tweaking your strategy, you’ll be better equipped to carve out the path that’s right for you.
3. Gaining Control of Periods and Discomfort
Periods are different for everyone, and it’s important to know how to adjust to what your body needs to feel comfortable. From finding the right products, to regulating your diet and exercise, here are a few tips to gain control of your periods and discomfort.
- Switch up Your Products: Make a switch in what you use for your period, like considering a menstrual cup or other reusable product. Doing this can reduce the amount of waste you put into the environment and also take control of your period protection.
- Regulate Your Diet: Eating healthy and vitamin-rich foods helps regulate your period and hormones. Try adding in healthy and natural produce like fruits, vegetables, and nuts into your diet to help regulate your period.
- Engage in Light Exercise: Light exercise such as walking, running, and cycling can help maintain the regularity of your menstrual cycle. Exercise can help to regulate your hormones and ease period discomfort.
Lastly, make sure to give your body enough rest. When periods seem overwhelming, the best thing to do is give your body space to rest and heal so it can be back to its regular cycle in no time.
4. Embracing Simple Strategies for Relief
There’s no doubt that dealing with stress and anxiety can be a difficult thing to manage. With so many different strategies and techniques available, it can be difficult to know which one is the right fit. Fortunately, there are some simple strategies that can offer relief and it’s important to embrace them.
- Deep breaths: Taking deep breaths can help to reduce any built-up physical and mental tension. Inhale through the nose, hold for a few seconds, then slowly exhale through the mouth.
- Meditate: Meditation is a good method to relax both the body and mind. It can be as simple as focusing on a single item or thought in a quiet space, or incorporating light yoga poses.
- Light exercise: Physically exercising your body can be impactful, too. Whether it’s going for a jog, stretching, or taking a brisk walk in the park, even a bit of physical activity can give you a welcomed mental and emotional boost.
All of these strategies provide countless benefits that can lead to stress and anxiety relief. So embrace simple strategies as much as possible and look for ways to incorporate these into your daily life. You never know when they may be the most effective.
By embracing these simple strategies, you’ll gain a bit more relief from the day-to-day stress and anxiety. Tap into its power and take charge of your mental health today.
5. Thriving with Menstrual Health Management
For many years, menstrual health has been overlooked as an important part of a woman’s overall health and wellbeing. In recent years, this has begun to change and more attention is being given to menstrual health management. Here are five ways to help manage and thrive with menstrual health:
- Regularly Monitor your Cycle: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle is an important part of managing your menstrual health. Pay attention to your cycle changes such as changes in flow, length, and pain, as well as any changes in your body.
- Exercise: Exercise not only helps manage stress levels, but it can also help with menstrual cramps, and can regulate your cycle. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, even if it’s just a brisk walk.
- Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps improve overall health, including menstrual health. Eating healthy may also help with PMS symptoms and cramps.
- Manage Stress: High stress levels can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Decreasing stress through activities such as yoga, meditation, or even just taking some time out for yourself can help manage your cycle.
- See your Doctor: If you’re having any significant changes to your menstrual cycle, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss it. Many menstrual conditions can be managed and treated with medication.
By taking the time to manage your menstrual health, you can ensure that your reproductive system is healthy and functioning normally. With a combination of lifestyle changes, self-care, and medical attention, you can thrive with menstrual health management.
As women, it’s essential to be informed and have an understanding of the many aspects of menstrual health. By learning more about menstrual health, we can cultivate self-care and relaxation during “that time of the month” and remain healthy and productive. With the right tactics and attitude, managing your menstrual health doesn’t have to be a hassle.
