Understanding menstrual cramps
Period cramps happen when the uterine muscle contracts strongly to shed its lining, briefly squeezing its own blood supply. When circulation to the pelvis is already sluggish — from cold, stress, or long hours sitting — the contractions hurt more and the surrounding muscles of the abdomen, back, and thighs tense in sympathy, spreading the ache outward. That is why warmth, movement, and relaxation reliably help: they restore blood flow and interrupt the tension that amplifies the pain.
How our therapies help
Warm packs are the foundation — sustained, comfortable heat over the lower abdomen and back that relaxes the uterine and surrounding muscles and improves circulation exactly where the pain lives. On this softened ground, Shiatsu applies rhythmic, comforting pressure along the meridians of the abdomen, lower back, and legs, releasing the guarded muscles and calming the nervous system's response to the pain.
Zone therapy completes the plan by working areas of the body that correspond to the pelvic organs, encouraging balance and easier flow through the cycle as a whole. Scheduled around your cycle and paired with heat, gentle stretching, and warm drinks at home, most women find their periods becoming shorter on pain and lighter on dread — month by month.
Questions we are asked
When should I schedule sessions in my cycle?+−
The most effective timing is the week before your period, when the body can be prepared, with a session during the period itself if pain is severe. Your therapist will map a schedule to your cycle.
How many cycles before periods get easier?+−
A course of 4–6 sessions usually spans one to two cycles. Many women feel their next period is noticeably milder, with improvement building over the following cycles.
What do the sessions feel like?+−
Soothing and warm. Sessions combine comfortable heat over the abdomen and lower back, rhythmic Shiatsu pressure, and zone work on areas connected with the reproductive organs. Most women find them deeply comforting, especially during a painful cycle.
When should period pain be seen by a doctor?+−
If cramps are severe enough to fail painkillers, are getting steadily worse year on year, come with very heavy bleeding, or occur outside your period, please see a gynaecologist — conditions like endometriosis need diagnosis. Our care complements medical treatment well.