Yoga and Menstruation

Sorry if this sounds dumb, but I think I remember hearing or reading that some positions shouldn't be done by women who are menstruating--downward dog specifically and there are a million downward dogs in my yoga class.

Sorry if it's TMI, but I'm on day 2 of my period and it's crazy heavy. Should I still go?

Edited my 12 year old sounding title.

Message edited 10/9/2011 8:09:43 AM.

Re: Yoga and Menstruation

I practice a different style then you (Hot yoga/Bikram) and I have never heard that you shouldn't practice during your period.

Re: Yoga and Menstruation

Never heard that. I think yoga is fine any time of the month.

Re: Yoga and Menstruation

I usually practice when I have my period unless it is very heavy and I have really bad cramps and cannot move out of bed. Some positions might be uncomfortable. I have had instructors tell the some students not to do shoulder stand if you have your period and to just put a block underneath your back or take goddess pose.

Re: Yoga and Menstruation

I have never heard this before. As long as you are feeling up to taking the class I would go for it.

Re: Yoga and Menstruation

i know what you are speaking of.

inverted poses (downward dog, headstands, anything upsidown) are sometimes advised against during your period, bc any time you go upsidown, gravity brings the flow back down and you might leak a bit.

HOWEVER, i have a very regular yoga practice and go during my period. just make sure you change your tampon right before, and after class. i think you should be fine.

regular practice too might help lighten the flow too!

HTH!