We all know our periods can bring anywhere from minimal to extreme discomfort and inconvenience.
Less painful and shorter periods however, can be achieved by establishing a self-care routine tailored to your own needs.
This post is features some of my favorite period essentials, tools, and helpers that enhance my period-self care routine, and overall monthly routine.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, in which a small percentage of commission is earned at no extra cost to you.
1. Hot Water Bottles
Hot water bottles have been my LIFE SAVER since I can remember. Helping with indigestion, tummy aches and cramps.
Using a hot water bottle especially on Days 1 & 2 of my period, provides warmth that helps relax muscles and alleviate pain. They are easy to use at home, or if you’re out an about where a cafe or restaurant is nearby (just ask for some cups of hot water).
Consider something like the BICAREE Hot Water Bottle that keeps warm for up to 8 hours and does not have any BPA, phthalates and other harmful ingredients.
I love the colors and look of this one especially! Grab BICAREE for only $15. 
You could also try this Samply Hot Water Bottle that can be used for hot and cold compress because of it’s transparent bag body, perfect for dual use purposes.
2. Heating Pads
Heating pads are a lifesaver for menstrual cramps, acting the same as the hot water bottle but in a larger scale. This is perfect to use at home and especially if you live in colder areas where you may want to warm up in the morning.
The Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad is a popular choice or the Sunbeam Heating Pad is a great, more affordable alternative. These both have adjustable heat settings and soft, comfortable fabric.
This is the Pure Enrichment Heating Pad is on sale for $44!
If hot water bottles aren’t your thing for for on-the-go relief, the ThermaCare HeatWraps offer discreet, portable heat therapy that you can fit in your purse.
3. Epsom Salt
If you have a bath tub on hand, an epsom salt warm bath can work wonders for menstrual discomfort. Epsom salt contains magnesium, which helps relax muscles and reduce inflammation.
Adding a cup of Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salt to your bath can provide a soothing, spa-like experience at home. It’s a perfect way to unwind and ease period pain.
It’s easily accessible, online or in your local grocery store. I find it cheaper to buy in bulk, so browse these Dr. Teals Epsom Salt options!
- Eucalyptus & Spearmint for Relax and Relief
- Restorative Mineral blend with Magnesium, Potassium, and Zinc
- And if you prefer a foamy bath, Black Elderberry with Vitamin D is a great option
are you Ready to
Understand your Menstrual Cycle with ease?
You Cyclical Queen is a foundational guide meant so you can:
- Understand the ebbs and flow of your hormones each month
- Take actionable steps to nourishing your lifestyle with recipes & exercises
- Feel empowered that this rhythmic cycle within you is what allows our bodies the life-giving force of creation
4. Raspberry Leaf Tea + Herbal Infuser Teapots
Raspberry leaf tea is widely known for its potential to ease menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual cycles; it has really helped me with easing my cramps over the years. Rich in vitamins and minerals, it helps strengthen the uterine walls and alleviate period pain.
I like brands like Traditional Medicinals Organic Raspberry Leaf Tea, offer a comforting and natural way to support your body during menstruation.
Using it in pair with an herbal infuser tea pot just makes your period feel soo sacred and nourishing.
Cute and charming teapots lik the Tealyra Daze Ceramic Teapot makes a serene tea-brewing ritual.
Or, if you’re more minimalist and like to see what’s brewing inside, check out the Teablooms All-in-one Glass Teapot and Kettle
5. Period Panties
Here me out, but Period panties can provide a comfortable and discreet option for menstrual protection.
Browse options from Thinx or Knix, offer built-in absorbency and leak protection. They come in various styles and absorbency levels which can be particularly useful for light days or as backup for other period products.
Period underwear can be cute too, cmon!! Browse the Knix Dream Short Underwear.
This cute pair is from Thinx FSA HSA Approved Underwear 
6. Essential Oils
There’s nothing like filling up a space with helpful and beautifully smelling aromas. Essential oils like lavender, clary sage, and peppermint can be beneficial for menstrual cramps and mood swings.
Using a diffuser with these oils can create a calming atmosphere, while applying diluted oils to your abdomen can provide targeted relief.
The Plant Therapy Essential Oil Set is a great option for creating your own soothing blends with 6 great starter blends.
Use it with your diffuser of choice, I like something like the InnoGear Oil Diffuser for a sleek look, or this best seller, the Asakuki 500 ml Diffuser with a Remote Control.
7. Portable Massagers
Growing up an athlete, I’ve had a fair share of using massage guns to help relieve muscle cramps and tension.
Portable massagers can offer the same relief but on the go, in a more discreet way.
Devices like the Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager provide deep tissue massage with heat, helping to soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. It’s compact enough to use at home or take with you to the office.
8. Reusable Menstrual Pads
Reusable Menstrual Pads may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but cloth pads offer comfort and eco-friendliness.
Did you know that approximately 20 billion menstrual pads and tampons are thrown away each year? And that’s just in North America.
For those who prefer reusable menstrual products, cloth pads like the Teamoy offer cute designs or Pixie’s Cotton Cloth Pads offer comfort and eco-friendliness.
These pads are made from soft, breathable materials and can be easily washed and reused, reducing waste and providing a gentler alternative to disposable pads.
Who knows, you might actually prefer them.
9. Hydration Tablets
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Electrolyte balance is crucial during your period, especially if you experience heavy bleeding.
Hydration tablets like the Nuun Electrolyte Tablets can help maintain your electrolyte levels, ensuring you stay hydrated and energized. They’re easy to carry and come in various flavors to suit your taste.
10. Yoga Mat and Block
Yoga can be incredibly beneficial during your period, helping to reduce cramps and promote relaxation.
There are a ton of options for a yoga may, but I like one that comes with either a strap or yoga block for better usage. Something like the Gruper Non Slip Yoga Mat is great as it comes with a carrying strap.
Adding a yoga block like this Syntus Set of 2 helps assist with gentle stretching and restorative poses.
Self-Care is the Best Care.
It shouldn’t feel like a burden to take care of yourself on your period.
In actuality, taking the steps to incorporate beneficial self-care tools and helpers into your routine helps alleviate discomfort and enhance your overall experience with your bleed.
I encourage you to treat yourself to buying a new heating pad or finally taking the steps to incorporating raspberry tea into your diet a week before your period so you can be set up for comforting solutions when it’s that time of the month.
I’d love to hear your personal favorite self-care tools and helpers, so leave a comment below letting me know!
I hope these ideas helped you gain a bit more insight on a holistic approach to self-care and embracing your cycle in a soft, empowering way.
Happy bleeding 🙂