Let's be honest – periods can sometimes feel like a bit of a downer. Cramps, bloating, mood swings – not exactly a recipe for feeling fabulous.
This guide is all about creating your very own DIY spa day, a period pampering session designed for ultimate relaxation and comfort. So, grab your fluffiest robe (or your favourite PJs – no judgement!), light some candles, and let's get started!
First things first, let's create a relaxing atmosphere. Here's how to turn your bathroom (or even your bedroom) into a spa haven:
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties. Certain scents are particularly effective at promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Here are some top choices to consider:
Bright lights can be harsh, so swap those overhead bulbs for some softer lighting. String lights, fairy lights, or even a simple table lamp can create a more calming ambience.
Studies have shown that listening to slow-tempo classical music for just twenty minutes a day can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.
Nature sounds can also be incredibly calming and restorative. Consider incorporating sounds of babbling brooks, gentle waves crashing on the shore, or the tranquil chirping of birds into your playlist. Research suggests that listening to nature sounds can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormone levels.
For a more immersive experience, consider adding binaural beats to your playlist. Binaural beats are auditory illusions created when two slightly different frequencies are played simultaneously, one in each ear. Studies suggest that binaural beats can promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, and enhance focus.
A soothing cup of herbal tea can do wonders for your mood and body. Studies have shown that specific herbal teas can offer significant relief from menstrual cramps and bloating. Chamomile tea, with its calming properties, is a popular choice. Research suggests it may be effective in reducing menstrual cramps.
Peppermint tea is another fantastic option. Known for its digestive benefits, peppermint tea can help ease bloating and discomfort in the gut.
Ginger tea is a powerhouse when it comes to relieving nausea and cramps. Studies have explored its effectiveness in managing nausea and vomiting, making it a valuable choice during your period.
Brewing a cup of herbal tea can become a soothing ritual during your period. Do you need cramp relief, digestive support, or something calming for anxiety? Choose a tea based on what your body craves most during your period.
Now it's time for the fun part – the pampering activities! Here are some ideas to get you started:
Draw yourself a warm bath and add some bath salts, essential oils, or even a bath bomb. Sink back, relax, and let the warm water soothe your cramps and melt away your stress.
Give your skin some love with a homemade face mask. You can use ingredients from your kitchen, like honey, yoghurt, or avocado. Check out Self's Easy DIY Face Mask Recipes for even more inspiration! Remember, before applying any new mask to your entire face, do a quick patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any sensitivities. This way, you can relax and enjoy the pampering knowing your skin is happy too!
After a long day, your feet deserve some TLC too! Pamper them with a warm foot soak. Add some Epsom salts for extra relaxation and to help reduce swelling and ease muscle tension. Aim for about ½ cup of Epsom salts for a standard foot bath.
Take some time to quiet your mind and focus on the present moment. Meditation and mindfulness exercises can be powerful tools for reducing stress and anxiety, which can be helpful during your period. A 2019 review published in the journal Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews looked at 47 studies on mindfulness-based interventions for treating anxiety disorders. The review found that mindfulness meditation was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety in adults compared to a control group.
Here's how you can incorporate meditation or mindfulness into your spa day:
Even just a few minutes of meditation or mindfulness can make a big difference in your stress levels. There are also plenty of free meditation apps available that offer guided meditations for beginners.
Sometimes, the best way to relax is to simply escape into a good book or watch a show that makes you laugh. By escaping into a captivating book or a side-splitting show, you can temporarily de-stress and give your mind a much-needed break.
Jotting down your thoughts and feelings in a journal can be a great way to de-stress and process your emotions.
Here are some journaling prompts to get you started:
Remember, there are no right or wrong ways to journal. Write freely, without judgement, and let your thoughts flow onto the page.
While you're indulging in your DIY spa day, remember the importance of comfort. Wear something loose-fitting and soft, like a comfy robe, pyjamas, or your favourite period underwear.
Unlike bulky pads or tampons that can feel uncomfortable, our period underwear are designed to feel just like regular underwear. They're leakproof, absorbent, and super comfy, so you can relax and enjoy your spa day without any worries. Plus, they're reusable, which is good for the environment and your wallet!
A: There's no right or wrong answer! You can have a spa day whenever you feel like you need some extra TLC. Maybe it's once a month during your period, or perhaps it's a weekly self-care ritual.
A: No worries! You can still create a relaxing spa experience with a simple shower. Light some candles, play calming music, and use a shower steamer to fill the air with a spa-like scent.
A: Absolutely! There are many pre-made face masks available at drugstores and beauty stores. You can also find simple face mask recipes online that only require a few ingredients.
A: There are plenty of free meditation apps available that offer guided meditations for beginners. You can also start by simply focusing on your breath for a few minutes each day.
Periods are a natural part of life, and they shouldn't hold you back from feeling amazing. By incorporating these DIY spa day rituals into your routine, you can transform your period into a time for relaxation, self-love, and pampering. Remember, you deserve to feel comfortable and confident – every day of the month!
