If you've been reading my blogs, you'd known what this is about. I previously posted a blog about the myths and the complications a woman faces during her periods. If you haven't read it yet, please do. So, this episode of stained stories is going to be about the do's and don'ts during your period days.

• You may have heard this a million times, but hear it again. Water. Drink lots of water. We may have heard myths about drinking water for various problems like acne and weight loss. But drinking water during your periods is necessary and can actually help with your cramps.
• Consume an healthy diet. Add fruits, vegetables and foods that are claimed to help in soothing cramps. My suggestions are tender coconut water, buttermilk, pomegranates, and a good meal. Some people drink black coffee to lessen the pain, but I personally don't recommend it because caffeine can disturb your sleep pattern.
• Many people suggest you to take rest. Yes, it is important to take rest. But that doesn't mean to skip your workout/exercise session. Exercise is very important to have a healthy life, and a healthy period as well. If you can't stress on your regular exercises, remember to at least move your body a little.
• Okay let's actually talk about taking rest now. You need adequate rest during periods and resting is the key. Ask someone to help you out with the household chores, or with the works that you feel stressed about. Hard activities like, running or straining your hip/pelvic muscles can increase the abdominal pain and lead to escalated blood flow.
• Strictly avoid taking pills. Painkillers can feel like heaven for temporary pleasure, but can cause long-term issues. Pills can reduce your capability of bearing the pain and painkillers are quite addictive. It can cause drowsiness in some people and rarely can cause changes in the blood pressure or in the sugar levels of the blood.
• Don't encourage eating dairy or oily food. Try including foods that have more water content like I previously mentioned. Oily foods will lead to contraction of the uterus, which means more cramps. Instead of dairy, consume drinks like lemon tea or black tea that tends to relax the pain and even the mood.
• Hygiene is a major player during the periods, isn't it? Apart from staying hydrated, wear comfortable clothes, make your bed, take warm showers and remind to change and dispose your sanitary products at required time intervals.
• Remember to follow these points during your next period. Happy period to you!