Chhavi Mittal, a well-known actress in the television industry, has not only battled breast cancer but emerged stronger and more vocal about her fitness and mental well-being. Recently, the actress posted a video of her doing an intense workout on the first day of her periods and talked about something that is still shrouded by myths: exercising during periods.
What Does Chhavi Say About Period Workouts
Posting the video of herself doing heavyweight lifting despite being in excruciating period pain, Chhavi confessed, "Today is Day 1 for me. I'm low on energy. Here I'm pushing 110 kg and the struggle is real. But the low energy is not due to periods! It's because of carb overload yesterday and heat and dehydration. Also underslept (late night TV)."
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She stated how healthy periods shouldn't hold you back from your routine. "Healthy periods will not ever pull you down as much as a bad lifestyle will. In the last 30 years of my period life, I have never altered anything in my daily life to adjust to the 'inconvenience.' Having said that, each body is different. Recognize how you feel during your periods. But don't just blindly blame things on this beautiful wonder of a woman's body."
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The Role of Periods in a Woman's Health
The caption of Chhavi Mittal's video talked about the connection between periods and a woman's health, speaking of hormonal imbalance, and discomfort. She said that menstruation is a sign of good health and feminity. "I can't even begin to tell you the empowerment I feel when I workout while on my period. Not to mention the 2-sided love between my workouts and my periods. I workout, healthier periods. Healthy period, great workout! I've always walked out from a gym stronger while I'm on my period."
She concluded by advising women to respect and understand their bodies during menstruation and to avoid jumping or doing core exercises during this time.
Advantages of Exercising During Your Period
As per Dr Sushma Tomar, Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital Kalayan, Exercise during your menstrual period might sound like a contradiction. Still, it can really help ease a lot of the symptoms associated with menstruation. Some of these benefits include:
- Pain and cramp relief: Exercise increases the amount of endorphins, which can help reduce the pain and cramps.
- Reduces bloating: Physical activity can help in reducing water retention and bloating.
- Improves mood: Exercise is known to release endorphins, which can help in improving the mood and reducing feelings of depression and irritability.
- Reduces fatigue: While exercise might seem very tiring, in reality, it can actually make you feel more energetic in the long run.
Best Exercises to Do During Your Period
Not all exercises are meant to be performed during menstruation. Still, there are specific activities that can be more beneficial than others:
- Walking: A simple yet effective exercise which can be done anywhere, walking is easy on the body and can help reduce cramps.
- Light Cardio: Activities such as light jogging, cycling, or swimming can be beneficial. The key is to keep the intensity low.
- Strength Training: Gentle strength training with lighter weights can help maintain fitness without straining the body.
- Yoga and Pilates: Such activities can help relax the muscles, reduce tension, and thus alleviate cramps.
Listen to Your Body
Chhavi Mittal's message emphasizes the importance of listening to your body. Some girls may find it okay to continue their regular workout. Others may need to alter the exercises. The key is to understand your body's limits and respect that, so you keep a healthy balance between fitness and being during your periods.
Bottomline
Chhavi Mittal's video gives an inspiring reminder that periods are not a barrier to a fit lifestyle. Understanding your body and choosing the right exercises can help you maintain activity and benefit from physical fitness even during menstruation.