Period pain? Turn those days into a moment of true self-listening
Silvia Ghigliazza
Yoga Teacher
Let's be honest: for many of us, "those days" mean cramps, bloating, back pain and an endless desire to stay in bed. We often experience our period as an obstacle, a monthly battle fought with painkillers and sheer willpower.
But what if I told you your body isn't trying to punish you, but simply asking for space? As a yoga teacher, but first and foremost as a woman who travels and adapts to ever-changing rhythms, I've learned that practice doesn't have to stop during menstruation: it just needs to change shape. We're not chasing performance, we're seeking relief.
Why gentle movement is your best ally
During your period, the uterus contracts and the muscle tension around the pelvis can amplify the sensation of pain. Yoga acts like an internal caress:
- ●Relaxes the pelvic floor — It eases the deep tensions we often ignore.
- ●Creates space in the abdomen — It helps counteract the feeling of bloating and heaviness.
- ●Calms the "fire" — Through breathing, we lower the pain threshold and soothe irritability.
The Asana of "Relief"
There are poses that are true embraces for your womb. Here are the foundations of my practice dedicated to these days:
- ●Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose) — Wonderful for gently opening the hips and relaxing the pelvic area.
- ●Balasana (Child's Pose, ideally with a support under the belly) — To completely release the weight from your back.
- ●Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall) — A true balm for leg swelling and for bringing energy back to the heart.
- ●Supta Matsyendrasana (Gentle Supine Twist) — To massage the internal organs and release lumbar tension.
- ●Savasana — The final relaxation pose, essential to integrate the benefits of the practice.
What to avoid?
During these days, leave aside intense core work or overly strong inverted poses (like handstands). Your body is working to release and "move downward": let's follow its natural flow, not fight against it.
Your "Zero Cramps" Protocol in PDF
I know that when you're in pain, the last thing you want to do is search for tutorials online. That's why I created a ready-to-use sequence, designed specifically to give you immediate relief. Write "CICLO" by email and I'll send you my free Guided Protocol in PDF. It's a gentle, slow and deeply restorative practice you can do even in pyjamas, right on your living room floor or in a hotel room.
Request the protocol →Frequently asked questions (woman to woman)
Absolutely yes — in fact, it's often the moment when you need it most. The important thing is to choose a restorative sequence and never push past your limits.
Yoga is a powerful tool for managing pain and stress related to your cycle. If you suffer from specific conditions, practice can help you experience a better relationship with your body, but remember that I'm here to guide you through movement, not to replace your gynaecologist's advice.
Even just 10-15 minutes can make the difference between a day of suffering and a day of wellbeing. The key is gentleness.
Ready to make peace with your cycle? Don't let pain decide for you. Write to me to receive your free guide and let's start taking care of you, one breath at a time.
