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The PMS jokes are tough to stomach, especially when you’re waiting for your period to make its monthly appearance. Cramps, sore breasts, mood swings, bloating…this cycle repeats month after month.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that 85 percent women experience one or more premenstrual symptoms per cycle. Many of them choose the easy way out and reach out for over-the–counter painkillers or low-estrogen birth control pills but. But what if you could alleviate PMS and all associated symptoms with yoga?

That’s right.

Apart from boosting metabolism and helping torch fat, regular yoga practice for a few minutes every day has been known to help alleviate, and even prevent, PMS symptoms. According to the book, Yoga for a Healthy Menstrual Cycle, yoga practice helps by releasing endorphins, the mood-elevating compounds of the body. It also boosts blood circulation to reproductive organs, eases stress and encourages deep relaxation.

Try these 8 simple yoga poses and work towards putting irritability and mood swings behind you:

1.  Child’s Pose

Also known as Balasana

This pose helps relieve strain on the thighs, back, shoulder, neck and hip and helps to relax the body.

2. Crocodile Pose

Also known as Makarasana

This pose is effective in getting rid of indigestion and constipation, a common problem of PMS. It also helps relieve stress from the back, legs, arms, and buttocks.

3.  Half Lord of the Fish Pose

Also known as Ardha Matsyendrasana

This pose relaxes the abdominal organs, which may relieve muscle cramps. It also stretches the back muscles and provides relief in the spinal area.

4.  Cat Pose

Also known as Bidalasana

The cat pose, which helps increase flexibility in your spine, is also known to relieve tension in the shoulders, neck and improves digestion.

5.  Standing Forward Bend

Also known as Padahastasana

This pose is good for the entire body and provides relaxation from head to heels. Repeat it 4-5 times and feel your body relaxing. The standing forward bend is also known to remove depression and anxiety.

6.  Fish Pose

Also known as Matsyasana

The fish pose is great for massaging the abdominal organs and muscles. The hip muscles are stretched while doing so, relieving tension in the body.

7.  Bridge Pose

Also known as Setu Bandasana

Headaches are a common ailment that women suffer when approaching their periods. The Bridge pose is ideal since it relaxes the central nervous system, improves blood circulation and revives tired leg muscles.

8.  Corpse Pose

Also known as Shavasana

All yogic postures end with the Shavasana or the neutral position. The state helps you get into a tranquil state and the body surrenders to peace.

Is it that time of the month? Then get a yoga mat and start practicing your poses. Isn’t it time you put your health first?