I’m sharing how I stay active thanks to Stayfree® pads as part of a sponsored post for Socialstars #StayfreeSisters
I would consider myself a pretty positive and motivated person. However, there are a few days out of each month when I would rather curl up with a fuzzy blanket, fresh baked cookies, and watch a marathon of Friends … rather than workout. During that time of the month, my motivation decreases, I feel stabby and cranky, and my desire to binge eat on all the junk increases.
As a mom, there are many moments that all I really want to do is tie up my kids and enjoy 5 minutes of alone time. Silence. Perhaps go to the bathroom alone. Just breathe. Sadly, we can not tie up our children (or maybe we can pretend play cowboys and Indians like the boys did in the above photo. Aren’t they cute?). We need to find other healthier ways to find peace.
As a woman, we are often so busy taking care of others that we forget to take care of our self. During our time of the month, we need to take care of and listen to our body, even if it is the last thing you really want to do.
Exercise is usually the last thing on my mind (during my period) … but I know that it is the healthiest option. Research shows that 30 minutes of regular aerobic exercise helps relieve cramps, bloating, and mood swings as well as other symptoms associated with PMS.
I know that when I make time for me, get fresh air, and move my body… even during my period, I am refreshed and in a better mood. My energy returns and I am less cranky. Win for all!
I am no expert when it comes to be Polly-Positive during shark week… but I do find that these five things help shift my mood, mindset and motivation. These activities help me stay positive and active during my time of the month.
Get Outdoors.
Get outdoors and breathe in God’s beauty. Go for a hike or just go out your back door and take a few deep breaths. Breathe in. Breathe out. Going outdoors for a change in scenery can also result in a positive change in your mood.
Do Cardio. Move Your Body.
Whether you choose to walk, run, bike or chase the kiddos moderate exercise can help alleviate cramps and reduce uncomfortable bloating. Exercise also helps speed up blood circulation, which may help relieve headaches and give off those feel-good hormones which helps combat those bad moods.
For me, I know that I am always in a better mood post run (workout) than I was at the beginning of a workout. Never underestimate the power of a good workout!
Add Strength
If running or cardio is not your thing, you can always lift weights. You don’t have to do this at the gym and can do it in the comfort of your own home too. Weightlifting helps build strong muscles and bones. The more muscle mass you have means you have a higher metabolic rate which helps you burn more calories… even at rest!
I am new to strength, but find that I am loving how strong I feel. Lifting heavy weights or light weights… making it a habit by adding it to your workout regimen is an excellent way to stay active and healthy.
Yoga
Yoga is my go to when life gets wild and crazy … and there is no time for me to escape for a run. I can simply flip upside down to get a change in perspective. Yoga focuses on breathing and relaxation techniques that can alleviate stress and tension, increases the flow of blood and oxygen around the body and settles down the nervous system. It also provides time for you to focus on your emotions and may help you better deal with and communicate your feelings and needs.
Smile. Laugh. Giggle. Have Fun!
I must admit, sadly, this last tip is the one that I need the most work on… especially during this time of the month. During my period, I am usually a bear and super cranky. Making time for giggles, laughter and smiling help me stay active… and happy during my time of the month.
Taking time out for myself (running, strength training, outdoor activities and yoga) can help me reflect and relax by smiling and enjoying the moment.
The Stayfree® brand helps me stay protected during my time of the month. I love knowing that I can stay active and comfortable during my time of the month. The Stayfree® Ultra Thin® Pads: Feature Thermo Control® Technology to wick away moisture and flexible layers that move with your body to keep you dry and comfortable. When running, though, make sure you still use body glide as you can still chafe while being protected.
Check out the My Yoga Offer to get FREE yoga classes online with a 30-day membership to My Yoga on Gaiam TV when you purchase any Stayfree® product either online or in-store between January 12-March 8, 2015! Visit stayfree.com/myyoga to learn more
Nicole @ Fitful Focus says
Totally hear you on the whole wanting-to-curl-up-watch-tv-and-eat-all-the-things feeling. Exercise does REALLY help though. I’ve been cursed with a very heavy flow (TMI?) but working out keeps that under control.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running says
I try to not let my monthly visitor interrupt my schedule too much. I try to do my best to keep up with my regular training schedule, despite cramps and other effects.
AJ @ NutriFitMama says
I just was to crawl in a hole and eat everything during that time of the month also. BUT I always feel better when I workout. I actually tend to workout more at home on the treadmill, spin bike, or workout dvd though- I don’t like working out in public during that time because well..I am just moody and feel yuck kwim?
Patty @ Reach Your Peak says
Great post – a topic I would have never thought to write about! I usually don’t have motivation issues on my period, but I mainly just feel gross and bloated. Yoga is a great tip. One thing that I love during that time (and especially during workouts during that time) are my DearKate underwear that is specifically for that!
heather @ divas run for bling says
yoga all the way. It always boosts my attitude and helps with any aches, pains and general blahness.
Jeannette says
I always struggle to exercise when it is that time but I always feel better afterwards! These are great activities to get you moving!
Amanda - RunToThefinish says
Admittedly with the whole hormone thing I haven’t had to deal with this in like 7 years and I don’t miss it 🙂 BUT I actually always found that a good sweat session made me feel better, so I just made myself start slow
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
Moving and staying on top of being active always makes a difference! Keep up with the healthy habits and make things as fun and distracting as possible!
Raijean says
I can’t lie, this is so hard for me but I’m working on not shutting down.
Tina Muir says
Great idea for a post, its a shame there isn’t more on this as I think it bothers a lot of people. Thankfully I do not have to worry about not feeling like it, and I can just get my run done, but I can definitely see how yoga would make a huge difference if you did feel crappy!
J. Merrill says
I’m lucky to never have to deal with this directly but I always like getting more information that helps me to be more helpful when others close to me are.
Sandra Laflamme says
I pretty much just stick to the same activities as I would usually do no matter what. Being active usually makes any aches and pains go away!
LaVonne says
Great post Rachel! I love that first picture of you, so great. I stay active by going to the local gym no matter if I am on my period or not.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
I remember those days all too well. While no longer having a period wasn’t my choice it turns out I don’t miss it. Back in the day I wasn’t active but went to work and powered through it.
Laura says
This is a very informative post thanks so much for sharing. I remember early on after experiencing my menses a gym teacher I had told me that movement relieves the pain
Deborah D says
Go for a walk
Amy says
Yoga definitely helps work out the cramps!
jen says
It seems like it will never end when you get it and sometimes it comes at the worst times.
Yoga seems to help
Melissa says
I agree, we need to stay active during our periods. I think I’m like many and just want to curl up on the couch and be miserable all by myself with a good book or movie. I think America would be much healthier if we all got up and moved more, not just during our periods.
Sarah Tomorrow says
I find yoga to be comforting during my time of menstrual
Patricia says
You look so cute with your kids! The first photo above made me smile, it is really tough to be a mother who takes good care of everything including your children. Nowhere to go to have some fresh air and I am so proud of you managing them despite of your situation (having a period).