Soothing Period Cramps: Find What Works for You, Without Guilt or Judgment

toabetterself
Sep 3
3 min read

Hi Beautiful,

period pain and remedies - toabetterself.com

Let’s talk about something real: period pain. If you’ve ever curled up in bed, holding your belly, wondering if anyone really understands what you’re feeling… you’re not alone.

Cramps can be mild and annoying—or they can be intense, draining, and completely disruptive.

And here’s the truth: there is no “right” way to handle them. What works for one woman might not work for another. And that’s okay.

This isn’t about pushing through the pain or choosing the most “natural” method. This is about you—and finding what helps your body feel safe, held, and supported.

Let’s walk through some different ways to soothe menstrual cramps—so you can build a toolbox that’s completely yours.

First Things First: Your Pain Is Valid

Before we get into remedies, let’s make one thing clear: Your pain is real. And how you choose to cope with it is nobody’s business but yours.

You don’t have to prove your pain. You don’t have to justify how you deal with it. Whether it’s hot water bottles, painkillers, breathwork, or chocolate and Netflix—it’s between you and your body. That’s it.

Natural + Holistic Ways to Ease Period Cramps

1. Heat Therapy

Warmth helps relax uterine muscles and ease tension.

Try this:

Heating pad or hot water bottle
Warm bath with Epsom salts and lavender
Heated rice pack on your lower belly or lower back

2. Herbal Teas + Anti-Inflammatory Sips

Certain herbs can reduce inflammation and support muscle relaxation.

Gentle options:

Ginger tea
Chamomile
Raspberry leaf
Clove water
Turmeric milk

3. Gentle Movement or Stretching

Movement may feel impossible, but even the softest flow can improve circulation and ease tension.

Try:

Child’s pose, cat-cow, gentle pelvic tilts
Walking in nature
Low-impact yoga or breath-led stretching

4. Food That Nourishes Your Hormones

Anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce prostaglandins (the compounds that cause cramps).

Focus on:

Omega-3s (chia seeds, salmon, walnuts)
Leafy greens + colorful veggies
Magnesium-rich foods (avocado, banana, dark chocolate)
Hydration, hydration, hydration

5. Supplements or Medication (Yes, This Counts Too)

If ibuprofen, magnesium, or a supplement helps you feel like yourself again—you are allowed to take it. This isn’t about being “strong” or “natural.” It’s about being supported.

Options to explore (with guidance):

Magnesium
Omega-3s
Cramp bark or evening primrose oil
Pain relievers when needed

6. Mind-Body Practices

When pain takes over your body, it can help to support your mind too.

Try:

Breathwork or guided meditation (I’ve got you cover : Playlist HERE)
EFT tapping
Body scanning
Journaling your emotions out

Final Thought: You Don’t Owe Anyone an Explanation

You don’t have to “suck it up.” You don’t have to justify your rest. You don’t have to fight your body. And you don’t need anyone’s permission to care for yourself in the way that actually helps you.

Some months you might drink tea and stretch. Some months you might take a pill and go back to bed. Both are valid. Both are sacred.

So listen to your body. Try what feels supportive. And give yourself grace to rest, heal, and just be.

Because this is between you and your pain. No one else.

And whatever brings you relief? That’s the right way for you.