Okay, let’s get real for a second. Periods. Ugh, right? For the longest time, I treated mine like an uninvited guest who showed up every month, trashed the place, and left me feeling like a deflated balloon. But over the past year, I’ve decided to flip the script. Instead of dreading it, I’ve embraced it. Yes, you heard me—I’ve turned my period into my personal power source. And let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer.
It all started when I realized how much I was ignoring my body’s signals. I’d pop painkillers, chug coffee, and power through my day like a warrior, only to crash hard by evening. Sound familiar? I was treating my period like a nuisance instead of listening to what my body was trying to tell me. Spoiler alert: it was screaming, “Hey, slow down and take care of me!”
So, I started small. I swapped my morning coffee for herbal teas—chamomile, peppermint, and ginger became my new besties. Not only did they help with bloating, but they also gave me a sense of calm that caffeine never could. And let’s be honest, there’s something oddly satisfying about sipping a warm cup of tea while wrapped in a cozy blanket. It’s like a hug for your insides.
Next, I got curious about cycle syncing. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s basically aligning your lifestyle—diet, exercise, and even work—with your menstrual cycle. I know, it sounds a bit woo-woo, but hear me out. During my follicular phase (right after my period), I feel like a superhero. I’m energetic, creative, and ready to conquer the world. So, I schedule my most demanding tasks during this time. By the time my luteal phase rolls around (hello, PMS), I’m all about self-care. I swap high-intensity workouts for yoga, and instead of meal prepping, I order my favorite comfort food. It’s not laziness; it’s strategy.
Speaking of food, I’ve also become a bit of a period nutrition nerd. Did you know that certain foods can actually make your period better? For example, dark leafy greens are packed with magnesium, which helps with cramps. And omega-3s, found in salmon and flaxseeds, can reduce inflammation. I’ve started incorporating these into my diet, and honestly, it’s made a noticeable difference. Plus, it’s a great excuse to eat more chocolate—dark chocolate, of course, because it’s rich in iron.
But it’s not just about what I eat or drink; it’s also about how I move. I used to think that exercise during my period was a big no-no, but turns out, it’s actually a great way to boost my mood and energy. I’ve fallen in love with gentle yoga flows and walking. There’s something so grounding about moving your body in a way that feels good, not punishing. And let’s not forget the endorphins—nature’s painkillers.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: period products. I’ve experimented with pretty much everything—tampons, pads, menstrual cups, period underwear. And while I’m not here to tell you what to use, I will say this: finding the right product for you can make a world of difference. For me, it’s been a combination of menstrual cups and period underwear. They’re eco-friendly, comfortable, and honestly, they’ve made me feel more in tune with my body.
But here’s the thing: embracing my period hasn’t just been about physical changes. It’s also been a mental shift. I’ve started seeing my period as a reminder to slow down, reflect, and recharge. It’s my body’s way of saying, “Hey, you’ve been going non-stop. Take a breather.” And you know what? I’ve started listening. I’ve created a little period ritual for myself—lighting a candle, journaling, and indulging in a face mask. It’s my way of honoring this time instead of resenting it.
Of course, it hasn’t been all rainbows and butterflies. There are still days when I feel like curling up in bed and eating an entire pizza by myself. And that’s okay. The point isn’t to be perfect; it’s to be kind to yourself.
So, if you’re still treating your period like the enemy, I challenge you to rethink it. What if it’s not a curse, but a superpower? What if it’s a chance to reconnect with yourself and give your body the love and care it deserves? Trust me, it’s worth a try.