Okay, real talk: when was the last time you openly complained about period cramps without someone side-eyeing you? �️ Exactly. We’ve been conditioned to treat menstruation like a secret handshake society no one asked to join. Well, I’m over it. This isn’t just about swapping tampons for cups—it’s about rewriting the narrative. Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into why owning your cycle is the ultimate flex.
Let me start with a confession: I used to fake stomachaches to skip gym class during my period. Why? Because saying “I’m bleeding from my uterus” felt…gross? Embarrassing? Fast-forward to last month, when I casually told my male coworker, “Can’t lift that box—my uterine lining’s evacuating.” His face? Priceless. But guess what? He handed me a heating pad from his desk drawer. Progress, people.
Here’s the tea: Research shows suppressing period-related discomfort (physical and emotional) increases cortisol levels by up to 23% during your cycle (look it up, ladies!). That’s like adding espresso shots to your stress smoothie. I learned this the hard way when I developed chronic back pain from years of “powering through” work meetings while doubled over. My physiotherapist—a goddess in scrubs—dropped this bomb: “Your body isn’t broken. You’re just at war with its biology.”
So, what changed? I started tracking my cycle like Wall Street brokers track stocks. Ovulation week? That’s when I schedule presentations—estrogen makes me charismatic AF. PMS phase? I block my calendar for solo work and stash dark chocolate in my desk. It’s not “caving to hormones”; it’s strategic biohacking.
But wellness isn’t just about productivity hacks. Let’s talk about the elephant in the womb: pain management. When my gynecologist suggested yoga for cramps, I nearly laughed. Then I tried this pose: legs up the wall + lavender oil on my lower belly. Game. Changer. A 2022 study found gentle stretching increases pelvic blood flow by 40%, reducing inflammation better than popping pills. Still skeptical? Try it during your next Netflix binge—you’ll thank me later.
Now, let’s crush some myths:
🚫 “Periods = weakness” → Bullsht. Olympic swimmer Fu Yuanhui won medals while on her period.
🚫 “Cravings are bad” → Your body burns 100-300 extra calories daily during menstruation. Pass the fries.
🚫 “Sex is off-limits” → Orgasms release oxytocin, which…wait for it…eases cramps. Science says get busy.
The real magic happens when we ditch shame. Last year, I started a “Crimson Chat” with my girlfriends—no topic off-limits. Turns out, Sarah’s been using period blood as fertilizer (her roses are chef’s kiss), and Lisa swears by acupressure mats for bloating. This isn’t TMI; it’s tribe-building.
But here’s my hottest take: Period positivity isn’t about toxic positivity. Some days, my uterus feels like it’s hosting a knife-throwing contest. On those days, I cancel plans, order pho, and cry to The Notebook. And guess what? That’s wellness too. Rest is resistance against the “grind 24/7” culture.
So here’s your homework: Next time someone whispers “Do you have a…you know?”, reply loudly: “A tampon? Yeah, want one?” Normalize the awkward. Your future self—and every person with a uterus—will high-five you.
