If there’s ever a time to step up your self-care game, it’s definitely during your period. Instead of looking at it as something that puts a damper on your week, see it as a sign to slow down and nourish yourself inside and out. Your body goes through a lot during this time. Celebrate it. Honor it and give it the TLC that it deserves with these five self-care rituals.
Create an at-home spa day
Pampering and periods go hand in hand. Use this time to treat yourself to an at-home spa session. If you have the entire day off, make a day out of it but you can also squeeze in a mini session in the evening after work.
Set the mood by diffusing eucalyptus essential oils. The classic spa scent will literally make you feel like you’re at a spa when you close your eyes. Play a soothing music playlist on Spotify and dip into a warm Epsom salt bath. Post bath, throw on a fluffy robe and some Acne Healing Patches to combat any period-related breakouts. Now that’s what we call self-care.
Have a girl’s night in
Your moon cycle should be a celebratory time and you can’t toast without your best girlfriends by your side. Invite them over for a girl’s night in complete with rosé just in time for National Rose Day on June 8th.
To celebrate the boozy day, we partnered with wine brand Winc to offer our email subscribers a $20 new member discount to Winc and a $20 discount off their next Rael purchase. According to traditional Chinese medicine, red wine is great for easing menstrual cramps. But just for good measure, you can also pass around Natural Herbal Heating Patches as party favors.
Spend time in nature
Nature is one of the greatest healers. This is a great time to get outside and spend some time getting cozy with Mother Earth and soaking up its good vibes. You can go for a nature walk or a brisk hike. Dance around barefoot on the grass or just lay out for a bit to get your daily dose of sunshine. Nature, some fresh air, and moving your body can completely change your mood and help reduce stress levels that tend to skyrocket during your menstrual cycle (thanks, hormones).
Cook something yummy
Cooking might be the last thing you want to do when you’re period is making you feel totally blah, but nourishing yourself from within with some good food is important. While it’s tempting to just order a pizza and devour a pint of ice cream, opt for something healthy and delicious by making some simple swaps. For example, if you’re in the mood for pasta, make spaghetti squash and meatballs. Or if you're craving chocolate, whip up some decadent chocolate avocado pudding. Your body will thank you later.
Spend time going inward
Your period is also a great opportunity to spend some time alone and go inward for some self-reflection. Between work, family, friends, and other responsibilities, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of it all. Your period is literally your monthly reminder to check in with yourself and see how you’re doing.
It’s a time to meditate and journal and ask yourself what you need to let go of that is no longer serving you in order to create room for the things you do want. Set some powerful intentions for the month ahead and allow any emotions you’ve been holding onto all month bubble up to the surface so you can process it all. And hey, if your idea of me-time also includes lounging in bed watching reality tv. That’s cool too.