• Self Care & Wellness
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4 Dec 2024

5 mins read

Navigating Body Image Through Your Cycle

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Periods can remind you of the amazing processes your bodies undergo, but most of the time, they are shrouded with shame, misconceptions, and a feeling of inconvenience. For centuries, this stigma around menstruation has crept into our minds, affecting our views on body image and our self-confidence. Hormonal changes may cause temporary physical changes like bloating or skin breakouts, but these are normal occurrences that usually subside as your cycle progresses. However, times are changing, and with the body positivity movement, many more people are gaining the confidence to discuss menstruation openly, accepting every aspect of themselves!

Body Dysmorphia And Cycles: Exploring Self-Awareness

  • Hormonal fluctuations can affect more than just your mood and how you feel about your body. More common symptoms include bloating, breakouts, puffiness, and many others-which are temporary.
  • If feelings of body dysmorphia or negative self-image hit deep during your cycle, bear in mind that you have plenty of company. Many can attest to these changes within their bodies.
  • Being forgiving of yourself, being gentle, taking a break, wearing comfortable clothing, and affirmations, have made all the difference, in many cases.
  • Being part of a community that supports these natural fluctuations is very valuable; resources such as journals and tracking tools may help you identify trends and deepen your connection with your body's needs.
  • Every month, your body prepares itself for one of the most basic yet painful processes in the universe. Show respect to the power inherent in that process and celebrate your body’s strength.


Bloated or not–celebrate your body for pushing through the trials of menstruation


Self-Care During Your Period

Practicing self-care in the midst of your periods will help improve your body image and make the experience less worrisome. Here are some self-care strategies for you to feel at best

  • Nourishing Foods
    The nutrient-rich foods-leafy greens, nuts, and dark chocolate-can be consumed for the replenishment of lost nutrients besides balancing one's mood.
  • Movement
    Gentle stretches like yoga or stretching, will help ease up cramps, and lift your mood up. Exercise creates hormones called endorphins which increase your mood overall.
  • Rest And renewal
    Rest more during your period; accepting this down-time allows your body to recharge and manage all the period discomfort more effectively.
  • Chronicling Your Experiences
    Keeping a journal of your physical and emotional sensations will probably increase the extent to which you understand those special patterns in your cycle. Journals can help you track these observations, allowing you to sail through each cycle with greater sensitivity and security.

The Power Of Period Positivity: Small Steps, Big Changes

Intentional, daily acts like discussing menstruation freely, using period-positive terminology, and celebrating brands for their efforts around menstrual health can have an impact over time and help create a world in which periods are recognized as the natural, normative experiences that they are instead of being forbidden.

Embracing period positivity not only redefines our own self-concept but inspires others to feel confident and proud in their own skin. Moreover, every cycle reminds us of the impressive capabilities of our bodies, something to be celebrated.

Always remember that true beauty comes from within, and your worth is not defined by your physical appearance. With such understanding of the body's natural processes and self-compassion, you are sure to journey through your menstrual cycle with confidence and elegance.

  • Body Dysmorphia​
  • Body Image​
  • Body Positivity​
  • Hormonal Changes
  • Menstrual Cycle
  • Menstruation
  • PMS

Table of content

FAQ

1. WHY DO I FEEL UNATTRACTIVE DURING MY PERIODS?

Hormonal changes in your menstrual cycle might cause your body temporarily to change in some unpredictable ways. Sometimes these physical adjustments affect your sense of identity. Remember though, however, that these are normal temporary conditions.

2. WHY DO I HAVE A BAD BODY IMAGE DURING MY PERIOD?

Physical and emotional fluctuations, with changing hormones, often create the basis for body image changes throughout menstruation. A heightened sense of awareness that such changes are temporary can be very useful for maintaining a positive self-image.

3. HOW DO I OVERCOME SHAME REGARDING MY PERIOD?

Learn about the science behind menstruation and why it is a perfectly natural phenomenon.

  • Challenge Negative Thoughts: Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations.
  • Discuss: Share experiences with friends or family members so that they won't stigmatize.
  • Join a Supportive Community: Connect with others who understand and can offer support.
  • Practice self-care. Do what feels good: go for a run, meditate, or just be outside.
4. WHAT MAKES MY SKIN BREAK OUT DURING MY PERIOD?

Hormonal changes increase the production of oil in your skin, thereby causing breakouts. This can be treated by:

  • Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid irritating your skin.
  • Moisturising: Keep your skin moist to prevent dryness and irritation.
  • Do not touch your face: this distributes germs and may exacerbate some acne.
  • Consult a Dermatologist: If your acne is severe, consider consulting a dermatologist for professional advice.