I bet I know what your favorite time each month is…
And I bet it’s every week except the week of your cycle.
Let’s be honest here: “that time of the month” just isn’t fun.
I remember the tampon and pad commercials from my teen years — images of red-lipped women in white pants on a cruise ship, sipping their mixed drink, laughing and talking like they didn’t have a care in the world. Or the teenage girls in bikinis who jumped into the swimming pool with their friends, like a tampon made that possible.
Seriously, who wants to wear white pants or a bikini on the first day of their period?
All the women I know loathe their time of the month. Brushing our hair and wearing non-elastic pants are big accomplishments. Red lipstick and white garments of any sort are out of the question.
I think most of us would like to forget about the whole business altogether.
Except we can’t … because it (hopefully) arrives like clockwork, every 21 to 34 days — yep, that’s normal!
The reasons for having tough periods are as numerous as the stars: genetics, nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, food intolerances, leaky gut … the list goes on and on.
And while I will say that my period now is a cakewalk compared to the periods I had in my teens and 20s, it’s still not the week that I circle on the calendar and wait for with giddy anticipation.
A Sacred Pause
The first day of my period brings with it an overwhelming desire for peace and rest. I find myself to be more contemplative during this week above all other weeks. I am quieter, slower, and gentler than usual.
I have always wished so much that I could go on with life as if nothing was happening to my body, yet I feel an instinctive urge to be in a restful, horizontal posture. I have figured out that my body’s been trying to tell me something for years:
“This is not a time for life as usual — this is a time to pause. This is a time to take care of me.”
Finally, after over 20 years of being a menstruating woman, I am listening.
I don’t pressure myself to carry on as usual, to keep up with my usual tasks, to plaster on a smile and pretend like everything’s just fine.
I use the week of my cycle as a sacred pause.
Rather than fighting my period, I allow myself to lean into it and embrace it as my body’s way of resetting each month.
And my body likes to start each new month off with rest and inward focus.
So here are the practices I follow to take care of myself during the couple of days of my cycle when I’m just not feeling so great.
1. Take It Easy
Most days, my motto in life is “Get ‘er done”. I’m a go-getter, and it’s very hard for me to be still for long. It’s next to impossible for me to do nothing.
Yet, that is exactly what our bodies need sometimes.
Whether the roughest part of the month for you is the first day of your period or the couple of days before it, taking it easy is one way you can take care of YOU.
The most uncomfortable day for me is the first day of my period. I feel crampy and sluggish and just plain tired. I don’t feel like cooking elaborate meals or cleaning the house from top to bottom or running errands … so I don’t.
I create most of the urgency to get things done myself — I usually don’t have deadlines to meet. Of course, if I do, I summon up what little energy I have, and do what must be done. Or I ask my husband to help when and if he can.
Usually, however, I can anticipate when my period will arrive and I plan accordingly.
For meals, my children are perfectly capable of making themselves scrambled eggs and toast or a bowl of yogurt with berries for breakfast. Leftovers are my saving grace at lunch time. And for supper, I either throw dinner in the crock pot or set out meat for my hubby to grill. A simple side, like baked sweet potatoes, gives us a complete meal that requires very little hands-on time from me.
For housework, I don’t do a whole lot. Since I know when to expect my period, I intentionally plan to not have company over around that time, so I don’t have the added pressure of cleaning house for guests.
My children have assigned chores, so they help out with folding laundry, cleaning the bathroom, and washing dishes.
The rough part of my cycle lasts only a day or two. The crumbs on the floor and dust on the shelves won’t go anywhere. 😉
2. Secret Sabbath
For the past several months, I have made the first day of my period my “Secret Sabbath”.
A Sabbath is simply a day of rest and reflection. I feel very introverted and introspective on the first day of my period. I need a day of inward-focused thought and time to myself.
It is my day to do whatever restful things I choose to do — take a nap or an Epsom salt bath, read a book, or watch a favorite movie. I make the time and space on that day to do any or all of these things.
The only wall of resistance I find myself bumping into, however, is the one our current culture built in my mind. There is a part of me that resists this secret sabbath, a voice that speaks in disapproving tones of laziness and selfishness, of the shame of taking so many steps back for women everywhere, of setting an example for my own daughters that is weak and self-indulgent.
But I continue to quietly push back against those lies, knowing in my heart that sabbath never about self-indulgence — it’s about self-care. Sabbath is never about shame — it’s about choosing restoration and healing. Sabbath is is never about weakness — it’s about possessing the strength to choose rest. –from Secret Sabbath: a Gentle Invitation to Once-a-Month Rest by Megan Tietz
A Secret Sabbath — a once-a-month embrace of my body’s need for rest — just feels right.
As unpleasant as a period can be, I actually look forward to my Secret Sabbath each month. It’s like my own mini vacation in the comfort and privacy of my own home.
I don’t have little children anymore, but if you do, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a Secret Sabbath.
Send the children out to play while you read a book and eat a bite of dark chocolate from a safe distance. Or make Netflix your best friend for the day. (Hey, I’m being totally honest here.)
My children can occupy themselves with a book, a craft, or LEGOs, and respect that Mommy needs some quiet time alone for the day.
I also plan to pass the monthly tradition of a Secret Sabbath on to my daughter when her time comes. She will nurture herself rather than push herself because her body needs respite.
3. Natural Feminine Hygiene
Switching from pads and tampons to a reusable menstrual cup and cloth pads was a game-changer for me!
I feel like my periods became much less severe when I began using a menstrual cup. AND, I’m nearly certain they’re shorter in duration.
Ladies, conventional pads and tampons are out; natural feminine hygiene is in!
This is a natural, easy, and environmentally-friendly way to take care of yourself during your period.
4. Essential Oils
Use clary sage and frankincense essential oils throughout the month to help support your reproductive hormones. I continue to use these oils during my cycle, as well.
Peppermint oil can provide much-needed pain relief. Rub it on your lower abdomen for cramps, on your lower back for pain, or on the back of your neck to relieve a headache.
Add a drop of lemon oil to your water as a natural diuretic to help eliminate bloating and water weight. This will also help if you find yourself a bit constipated right before your period starts.
Diffuse essential oils to lift your mood if you feel depressed or lack energy. Sweet orange, peppermint, and grapefruit oils work well for this purpose.
Check out The Ultimate Guide to Essential Oils {and which oils do what} for how to use essential oils for hormone balance, pain relief, and reproductive health.
This excellent article explains in detail about which oils to use and how to use them to support hormone balance.
5. Proper Nutrition
I can’t say it enough: eating Real Food makes rough periods better.
Do you have food intolerances or leaky gut? Please work toward eliminating problem foods from your diet and healing your gut. It may seem odd that your digestive health has something to do with your ovaries and uterus, but it does!
In fact, Dr. Amy Myers lists PMS and hormone imbalances as one of 9 signs that you have a leaky gut!
I have personally experienced less PMS and a less painful and much lighter period since changing my diet to consist of lots of good protein and veggies and very little sugar and grains.
Because you lose blood during the first couple of days of your period, consume grass-fed liver. It will replenish iron and combat fatigue. If you can’t stomach liver, try dessicated liver capsules!
I enjoy my Pineapple-Carrot-Turmeric Spritzer during my cycle to ease cramping and headaches. This drink alleviates fatigue and just makes me feel better. It’s like taking liquid Tylenol — without the nasty chemicals! That’s why I declared it the Best Period Drink Ever!
As a compliment to proper nutrition, check out 5 Natural Supplements For Painful Periods {treatments that bring relief!}.
Additional Resources
If your changing thoughts, feelings, emotions, and hormones are one giant puzzle to you (and your spouse), I encourage you to read these articles:
- Cycle Awareness: How Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Behavior, Mood, and Desires from my friend Kylie
- Natural Remedies for PMS and Cramps from Wellness Mama
- Reverse the Curse — Benefits of Your Period
In what ways do you take care of yourself during your period? Have you considered any of these methods?
Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You are responsible for your own health and for the use of any remedies, treatments, or medications you use at home. Herbs are powerful medicine. You should always speak to your health provider before ingesting any herb, especially if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or on any other medications.
...without giving up the foods you love or spending all day in the kitchen!
2 free books:
Eat God's Way
Ditch the Standard American Diet, get healthier & happier, and save money on groceries...
We only recommend products and services we wholeheartedly endorse. This post may contain special links through which we earn a small commission if you make a purchase (though your price is the same).
Great article, Lindsey! I’m obsessed with this topic… thanks so much for sharing my post.
I LOVE that article! I sent it to my husband right after you wrote it, and he said, “Wow, things make so much more sense now!” This is something we should be talking a lot more about!
This was such a good post! It wasn’t until I tried using Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat some hormonal issues I was having that I learned about the importance of letting your body rest during this time. I will be the first to admit though that being willing to slow down and take things at an easier pace is difficult.
I do yoga, but I lay off the power yoga and do more of a gentle restorative flow. I sleep in an extra half hour in the mornings if I need to, usually with a heating pad; and I allow myself the chocolate. :/ What can I say? It helps.
Heather, I think what’s “normal” is that every woman’s body is different and responds to the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes and swings in her body differently. You are very fortunate if your periods don’t alter your well-being in some way — and if this is “normal” for you, then that’s awesome! I think some level of discomfort, cramping, fatigue, etc. is very normal, though the severity of those things varies from woman to woman and even from month to month in the same woman. I bet if a large number of women were to reply to your question, you would see that your periods are definitely an exception to the norm. And I’m a little jealous! 🙂
When I used to work outside the home, I would secretly pray that my period would start on a Saturday so that I could have two full days of rest before going back to work!
Love this blog. Love, love this blog! Hugs for Lindsey. I now get and give enemas at home. I am going to also try the other things you listed Lindsey!
Lindsey, I am so glad you mentioned enema! I think it is a shame so many people do not want to talk or share about enemas!
I find many women have no idea about the benefits of enemas. A wonderful home remedy and avoids chemicals and meds. I think every mom should have a enema bag or bulb in the home and give, or get, an enema when needed.
Lindsey, I agree, agree, agree that coffee enemas, and plain water enemas, provide the exact same benefits as OTC meds do. And as you say “without the risks.” Enemas boost my mood, I feel wonderful after an enema, have better mental clarity and energy level too. And yes, provide pain relief as well!
A long post. Edit it if you like. Possibly someone may learn.
I am not a doctor. Nor am I telling anyone what to do, or not to do. Just relating my experience with an enema when on period.
Before getting or giving an enema always check with your medical provider — doctor.
Omg getting an enema is one of the things that helps the most when on my period! And no OTC meds taken.
I even get an enema when not on my period. When feeling sluggish, constipation, colds or flu or other reasons…out comes the enema bag or bulb.
As far as my period, I get relief of cramping when doing an enema. An enema helps with my headaches and more. I am no longer fatigued after a CE or regular enema.
I always get an enema on the first day of my period. And sometimes a daily enema after the first period day. Afterwards I feel great, cleansed, relaxed after an enema or enemas.
I agree with Lindsey, it’s a great way to relax, rest and have some quiet time to myself. Very relaxing!
As Lindsey stated, when I am getting an enema I also have mine occupy themselves or sent out to the back yard to play.
If a rainy day, they get to watch a movie, or play with a new toy. But, sometimes it is not that easy by having them play…as playing leads to a fight or outside means coming inside for something…so, I found it is better and easier to take my enemas during their nap time. That way I know they won’t be getting into anything or fighting and crying. I make sure they are napping before I lay down and start the enema.
Prepare before hand. I found it is easier to prepare everything before hand they go for a nap. Have everything ready even to having my house robe on and then put them down for a nap.
Sometimes I get an enema late at night when they are in bed.
Getting more time for my enemas: Preparing everything before they go down for a nap gives me more time for getting my enema and more time to relax in the tub of water after my enema. If preparing before they go to take a nap, I have the water in the tub and the enema solution a little warmer than normal. That way by the time I am ready for the enema, it has cooled to the correct temp. The bath water and the enema solution have cooled some.
Speaking of nap time, if one of them needs an enema, nap time is also a good time to give an enema while the others are napping.
I am so glad you mentioned enemas Lindsey.
How did I learn to get enemas when on period? Another mom was over. I was complaining to her about my period and how I felt. She told me when on her period she get enemas! Especially the first day of her period she would get an enema even two if needed. She told me she laid in a tub full of warm water on a towel when getting her enema. I tried it and was hooked! OMG so relaxing and soothing. Getting an enema the first day of my period was, and still is, wonderful. I had been taking OTC meds…and other chemicals. I never knew an enema when on my period could be so wonderful!
I called her and thanked her!
Preparing: When it is time for an enema, I fill the tub with warm water. Get the enema bag or bulb syringe out. Prepare the solution of coffee or warm water enema. Fill the bag or bulb. I then hang the bag by the tub or sit the bulb on the side of the tub. The lube on side of the tub. If I am getting a bulb enema I have a large bowl full of the enema solution close by so I can refill the enema bulb syringe if I want to. Sometimes I prefer a bulb enema to a bag enema. Just me.
Take it and relax. While relaxing in the water, I do a warm water enema or a coffee enema. I get a warm water enema when I do not have “the coffee” in the house. I take the enema very slowly. It is so very very relaxing and soothing. Helps with cramps. I fill the tub up full. I believe the water pressure while laying in the water helps. If any cramping starts, I stop the flow. Take deep breaths in and out of open mouth. Relax. And then resume the enema. Massage tummy some. Most of the time I get a full bag enema. That is the full 2 qt red rubber enema bag.
If I get the enema in the tub of water, I have to get out of the tub to expel the enema and get back in the tub of warm water to finish bathing or to relax more in the tub of warm water.
I do not find getting out of the tub to be a issue. Just may be dripping bath water.
Sometimes, I fill the tub with warm water and get my enema on the bed. Remove the bed linen and put a towel on the bed. When the enema is finished I go and expel, It is nice seeing the tub of warm water waiting for a relaxing soothing soak after an enema.
Thank you for this beatufiful post. Greetings from Quito-Ecuador
I want to try de coffee enemas.
I make sure my teen girls and I take a source of iodine, kelp tablets regularly and seaweed snack packs on the day of. We also use Epsom salt for bath or magnesium lotion on our body. We also enjoy the carrot pineapple juice! Katie at kitchen stewardship recently had a guest article on eating foods that complement all 4 weeks of the month from ovulation to menstruation with a handy fridge printable that I want to start with the girls!
Such a lovely post. Please keep us updating with such information these tips are really helpful for many of us. One thing that i would like to mention that there are many companies who claims to provide you the natural & chemical free sanitary pads that doesn’t contains any plastics inside it and i had also tried some of them even i find it very comfortable and hygienic.
It’s important to rest on your period.
Good information!
Tried few of the things you listed and will try other ones too.
Omg! Super good you told of doing a coffee enema to help.
I haven’t gotten CE yet — but will try it — a coffee enema during period.
I read on a while back on here of getting an enema when laying in a nice warm tub of warm water.
So after my divorce I tried it and loved it.
Since the first tub enema I have gotten many more in the tub of water.
I tried doing an enema before the “need” was there. Just to see how it went.
Stripped. Filled the tub up half full. Put towel in the water to lay on. Got the enema bag out. Filled it full of warm water.
Holds 2 quarts.
Had jar of Vaseline on side of the tub. Kids were gone to school. Make sure you have time and privacy when getting the enema.
Laid in the tub of water on the towel.
No, no and more no there is no mess.
So, so relaxing. Laid on my back. Had one leg on side of tub. Actually was very relaxing. I love soaking in tub and doing Espsom baths. Started the enema. Felt so relaxing and soothing.
I hung the bag on a cord hanging from shower rod.
If you do a tub enema with the bag make sure your shower rod will hold the full enema bag. Don’t hang bag on one of those shower rods that are spring loaded and stay up with pressing the wall.
I have gotten many enemas in my life. But, taking an enema in a tub full of warm water, laying on a nice towel, was the best way to get it.
When I did other enemas in the tub I put some nice soft music on. Lit a few nice scented candles.
Ok talking far too much. Sorry.
My next enema will be a coffee enema. Got the coffee already.
I am a believer in the benefits of enemas! Agree with the benefits listed on here.
I have a bulb syringe for giving enemas to my family when needed.
I hate giving meds, OTC junk, pills to myself or my two kids.
Giving and getting an enema is very beneficial and no chemicals. All natural.
My ex hated any form of natural healing, herbal remedies, enemas and such. So was unable to give or get enemas in the home until I got divorced.
Having been given enemas when growing up I knew they help with the constipated child, headaches, fevers and more.
The only time I gave an enema when married for a few years was when my oldest one hadn’t gone for a day. My neighbor knew of my ex and his stupidity. She was a nurse and also believed in the enema as a home remedy.
She told me bring him over and we can give him an enema. We prepared the enema at her house. Gave him an enema on the table. Omg! He immediately felt better.
Never told my ex.
Before giving or doing enemas talk with your doctor first.
Very informative article. Comments are also informative and helpful.
Taking it easy…yes!
In addition to suggestions on here, I usually do a warm water or coffee enema.
I tell the kids I will be busy for about a hour.
Send the kids out to play or go to friends house. Or, play nice on their own at home….then I get the enema bag, or enema bulb syringe, out of the closet. Find it relaxing time getting an enema. Helps.
Not only helps with period, the enema cleanses and detoxes.
Most of the time get the enema laying in tub of warm water on a towel. Sometimes get the enema on bed. Linen removed. Towel on the bed. Never had a mess.
Always feel better after getting an enema.
I think it’s so great that you were in women it’s OK to rest on our periods. Our society makes us think we have to rush and accomplish all the time… And having our moon time is such a great reason to take the day off if possible, or even just a couple hours of rest. Such a good time to integrate other things we have been working on, psychologically or energetically also. We must stop and slow down, in order to grow and evolve and assimilate all of the knowledge or work we have been doing on ourselves! I also let them up before or during my period… Not only does it help me feel more clear and energized, I feel like it cleans me out and also removes a lot of the water retention or bloating… Even my face and eyes look better after an enema! No more puffiness 🙂