Menstrual Cramps

Most women deal with menstrual cramps at one time or another. They definitely aren't fun, and they often make you feel like staying in bed all day, but that isn't the best option. Exercise will usually alleviate menstrual cramps, so go for a walk, a run or a swim or put on your favorite exercise video and follow along. The wii fit is my personal favorite - what could be better than playing video games while you exercise?

If you're in too much pain to get right to the exercise, try applying heat. This is only a temporary fix, but a hot bath or a heat pack will get you on your feet again. Don't worry about buying expensive heat packs. If you have rice or beans in your house, put them in a ziploc bag, microwave it for a bit and wrap it in a dish towel - instant heat pack.

This oil blend will also help:

4 drops marjoram
4 drops lavender
2 drops vetiver
4 teaspoons carrier oil (sweet almond or grapeseed oil)
Combine and massage into your lower abdomen twice a day.
Note: if you don't have lavender, you can replace it with 4 more drops of marjoram.