menstrual cramps

[Guest guest]

I also experience cramps that are very painful, and have

experimented with different things to help. I have noticed that

eating iron rich foods(meat,beets, etc.) allows the blood to flow

easier, especially if I eat more of them a few days before. I have

heard the cramps are due to the cervix having to really force things

to move. I also have heard that thyme essential oil rubbed into the

bottom to the feet(reflexology points) really helps, but haven't

tried that one yet. I also find that placing my hands on the second

chakra area and breathing helps. Kava Kava and crampbark combo by

Eclectic Institute found in your health food store is one of the best

herbals for this. Also hot baths and hotpads help. And I have

realized that cramps could be due to a psychological issue. Our

culture definately has unhealthy beliefs related to our bodies,

especially for women. Menstruation used to be looked at as a sacred

time for women. The native americans used this time to go into the

moonlodge and celebrate their creative energy. They could take a

break from their duties to get in touch with their intuitive self,

and use that energy to create their dreams. Nowadays we are " on the

rag " and treat it as a problem. I recommend reading Christiane

Northrup's book called Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom. She really

gives us the power to look at how we can change our beliefs to love

our bodies and their natural rhythms. Hope this helps.