Anger isn’t the enemy—it’s a teacher. Exploring the sacred role of anger in Reiki, spirituality, and social justice.
Read MoreIn Defense of Anger: A Spiritual and Political Reckoning
Story Time: My Journey with Endometriosis
Once upon a time, I got my first period. I was 13 and felt uncomfortable and strange, but not in a great deal of pain. Within two years, however, I was blacking out in my school hallway as I hobbled to the nurses office for the medicine I thought would save me: ibuprofen. (Ha.)
There are the stories I tell doctors to communicate the intense level of pain I experience with menstrual cramps: like when I had to leave a 9th grade state exam to go throw up, even though the teacher had told us we would be disqualified from the exam if we left the room.
While there are stand out moments like missing the state exam, there are so many more mundane experiences of pain. But those made up big chunks of my life, too. I’d keep crackers by my bedside (to prevent nausea) so I could take ibuprofen as soon as cramps would wake me up in the night. I’d place two overnight pads to cover the full length of my underwear, and still leak blood onto my pants. I’d lay curled in bed with a hot water bottle for hours. I didn’t think of any of this as concerning or irregular— that’s just how periods were.
Read MoreThe Best Yoga Pose for Endometriosis
When it comes to finding the “best” yoga pose for endometriosis, it’s important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each person’s experience with endometriosis is unique and their practice should be tailored to their body’s specific needs.
That being said, there is one restorative yoga pose that stands out for its gentle yet effective benefits: Supta Baddha Konasana, or Reclined Bound Angle Pose. This pose focuses on opening the hips, relieving tension in the low back, and creating space within the pelvic floor. These areas often suffer from tension, cramping, and pain due to endometriosis. This pose is accessible for folks with varying levels of flexibility and energy, and can be done from the comfort of your own bed on days when getting on the mat is too much.
Read MoreEndometriosis and Yoga 101
Endometriosis is a full body disease, and yoga is a full body (and mind, and spirit) practice. On a physical level, yoga asana (postures) can relieve tension, improve circulation, and increase mobility within muscles and joints. Pranayama (breathing and energy management practices) can improve nervous system health— rather than starting in an “up-regulated” state, we can shift into a more restful state. Meditation practices can offer new ways to relate to chronic pain.
Read More4 Ways Yoga Improves Pelvic Health and Relieves Pain
Yoga is an excellent way to support pelvic floor health through pelvic floor exercises and specific practices that target strengthening, flexibility, and pain relief. One big benefit of yoga is that it can go with you anywhere, and be practiced at any time! You can do a few soothing movements from bed at 2am, or subtly try a breathing practice at your desk for 5 minutes.
But how exactly can yoga help with pelvic challenges?
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