A few years ago, I got off hormonal birth control and started to get my period again. It had been years since I had gotten an actual period, and it took me a while to find products I liked to use during my period. I used to see my period as a time to get through as quickly as possible, but now I actually look forward to getting my period because I know it is my time to rest, relax, and recharge. My holistic period routine is now something I can’t live without!

I was never a massive fan of the classic products marketed to us as women, like Midol or Tampax. They just never really stuck with me, but I was determined to find products that were chemical-free and holistic, and that made me feel great while I was on my period.

And I am glad I did—a recent study stated that major brand-name tampons and pads contain trace amounts of heavy metals—yuck! But not to worry because I am happy to share my holistic list of period essentials with you so that you can be on your way to thriving while on your period!

Here are five essentials for a holistic period:

1. Menstrual Disc or Cup

I swear by a menstrual cup instead of pads or tampons! It is so much more comfortable to use, and you don’t have to worry about toxic shock syndrome or being exposed to chemicals and heavy metals. You can use any disc or cup, but I recommend using a silicon reusable disc because you only have to buy it once, and you’ll have it for years (plus it is environmentally friendly). I also recommend getting soap to wash your disc with—I use this brand.

2.  Period Panties

Period panties are another alternative to pads and tampons. These are way more comfortable than pads and offer all the protection I need. I wear these with and without my disc, but I even use them for workouts on my period. They are non-toxic and chemical-free, so you don’t have to worry, and they are also environmentally friendly, so that’s just a bonus! I recommend trying this brand if you are interested!

3. Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

I don’t particularly like taking Advil or any over-the-counter pain reliever, so for natural pain relief from cramps, I like to drink Red Raspberry Leaf tea. I don’t know how it works so well, but it works! Since I started drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea, I have become much more active during my period; I even go to Pilates! It is like a magic tea!

4. Heating Pad

This one is probably obvious, but it didn’t feel right not to include it. Of course, you must have a comfy, cozy heating pad for natural pain relief and comfort. I recommend any heating pad, but this one is wearable so that you can have relief all day!! How cool is that!!

5. Cacao Powder

I always crave chocolate during my period, so I make a warm and comforting hot chocolate drink using Cacao powder and sip it during my period. Cacao powder differs from the traditional cocoa powder you would use for baking. Cacao is rich in antioxidants and magnesium, but it is also said to be a natural medicine for relieving menstruation symptoms. It has a grounding effect and helps me take time to relax and go inward during my cycle.

I hope these essentials help you as much as they have helped me find a period routine I look forward to every month. I would love to hear if you try any of these products and what your favorite products are during your period! Thanks for reading!

Xoxo,

Caroline