Reasons to Consider Skipping Yoga

Here are some reasons I personally choose not to practice during my period:

1. Fatigue: The initial days can leave me feeling drained, and pushing my body further may not be beneficial. Instead, I might opt for a gentle, restorative flow or meditation.
2. Heavy Bleeding: If you're a heavy bleeder, you know this struggle well.
3. Iron Levels: Without adequate iron intake, my body isn't ready for an intense practice. I do take iron supplements and consume nutrient-rich foods, but at times, it just isn't sufficient.
4. Lightheadedness: On days like these, engaging in strenuous activities, like power yoga or inversions, is ill-advised. Gentle movements and deep breathing are far more soothing.
5. Headaches: Migraines can be worsened by certain poses, particularly downward-facing dog.
6. PMS Symptoms: Severe PMS can lead me to prefer more vigorous activities, like running, rather than gentle yoga, which can feel too bland for my heightened energy levels.
7. Need for Rest: If life has been hectic, a vigorous practice during my period could lead to burnout. Instead, I might find that slowing down or even journaling is more beneficial.

Ultimately, I feel more connected and authentic when I honor my body’s needs. Some days, I simply choose to rest, while on other days, I may practice gently without the usual intensity.

Respecting Natural Rhythms

We should embrace the natural rhythms of our bodies rather than ignore them. This practice of honoring myself is essential for overall well-being. Engaging my core during my period is particularly challenging; I find it nearly impossible to access the necessary strength for certain poses when experiencing menstrual discomfort.

In traditional Ashtanga practice, it's common to take the first few days of menstruation off, referred to as a "ladies holiday." This guideline is respected for many reasons I've shared.

Nonetheless, many individuals, myself included, thrive on continuing our practice during this time.

Reasons to Embrace Yoga During Your Period

Here are my reasons for saying "YES" to practicing on my "moon days":

1. Defying Norms: I'm determined to challenge the patriarchal narrative surrounding what women can or cannot do. Yoga was historically designed by men, but as more women engage with it, we must establish our own guidelines.
2. Personal Empowerment: I resist the societal pressures that dictate how I should feel or act.
3. Connection to Self: Engaging in a flowing yoga practice allows me to connect deeply with my true self and normalizes the experience of menstruation.
4. Embracing Natural Processes: Menstruation is a natural and beautiful aspect of life, deserving of respect rather than stigma.
5. Listening to My Body: I trust my instincts to make choices that serve me best, even practicing with my eyes closed to tune in to my body’s signals.

It's essential to note that I speak from my own experience; I encourage my students to listen to their intuition rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach.

Yoga is fundamentally about tuning in to our needs and fostering a deeper connection with ourselves. Ignoring this can lead to disconnection from our true selves and a misunderstanding of what it means to be alive.

Holding Space for Self-Discovery

As a teacher, my role is to provide a space where you can pause and reflect on your practice. If you are questioning whether to practice during your period, I am here to celebrate your journey. I want my students to explore their thoughts, make discoveries, and connect with their inner guidance.

Yoga serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and experimentation, as long as we adhere to what feels right for us.

Ultimately, the only person who should dictate your practice is YOU.

Be free, be authentic, and honor yourself at any stage of your menstrual cycle. I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments.

A discussion on whether practicing yoga during your period is advisable.

A gentle 20-minute yoga practice designed specifically for menstruation days.