Cramps got you down? Try one (or all) of these natural home remedies, sure to calm those painful monthly cramps .

1. Exercise

While this might sound a little crazy – as you lie curled up on the sofa in a Snuggie, tub of Breyers rocky road ice cream in hand – taking a brisk walk or partaking in any kind of physical activity can help to ease pain. When you exercise, your body is pumping more blood.

During this heightened phase of movement, your body releases endorphins to counteract the prostaglandins (which controls inflammation, blood flow, the formation of blood clots) and relieves cramps.

Exercising three to four times a week is good for the overall health of your body, but it is especially important if you’re prone to painful menstrual cramps.

READ: Tia Mowry-Hardrict Opens Up About Endometriosis & Pregnancy Challenges

2. Heat

I’m a firm believer in applying heat. Growing up, my mother would create these reusable heat packs consisting of rice and a soft drawstring cover. By applying them to my abdomen, the heat released would relax my contracting uterine muscles — which, according to The Mayo Clinic, are the main pain perpetrator. Of course, there are many over-the-counter heating patches and pads, like ThermaCare, Bengay, or an electric heating pad, which will also do the trick.

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