“It’s already been a month?” Yep, for those of us with uteruses, nothing like your period reminds you how quickly time goes by. Even though the time in between periods can fly by, the time you spend having your period can feel like a never-ending quest of wondering when the pain, cravings, and unnecessary emotions will end. But fear not, we have 5 tips to help you have a healthier, more pleasant period!

GO ORGANIC

Use organic feminine hygiene products. You may not know this, but the FDA doesn’t require brands to disclose what’s actually in their tampons, so mainstream brands have ingredients like chlorine, bleach, and pesticides. Yuck! The vaginal wall is the most absorbent part of your body. Use 100% organic cotton or tampon alternatives because you deserve better!

EXERCISE

Some of you are thinking, “Are you serious, the last thing I feel like doing is exercising.” But don’t worry – we aren’t saying you have to summit Mt. Everest, but light to moderate exercise can help soothe cramps, boost your mood, and alleviate stress! Thinking of driving up to the grocery store to pick up some much-needed mint chocolate chip ice cream? Why not walk instead?

GET TOGETHER

Spend some time with friends or family. It will boost your happiness! Grab a cup of herbal tea and have a conversation with those who mean the most to you. That Netflix series can wait.

EAT SMART

Foods to eat and to avoid: Try eating more leafy greens, they are a great choice to eat during your period because they are filled with iron. Don’t forget about chocolate either, but make sure it is dark chocolate (less sugar, more antioxidants.) There are certain food stressors, irritants and stimulants that can make PMS worse. Try avoiding processed foods, foods high in sugar and high salt foods.

DO SOMETHING NICE

Turn that “Ugh” into “Yay.” On average, you’ll have 500 periods in your lifetime, so instead of dreading it each month, why not make it a routine to do something nice for yourself or someone else (or both)… because your period will be a natural monthly reminder!

Now WE wanna do something nice for YOU! We’ve partnered with Ellebox to do a giveaway! Ellebox is a monthly subscription box full of everything to make your period the best one yet. The box comes with organic pads and tampons, along with a few extra treats to make your time of the month a little more enjoyable. Wanna win one?

TO ENTER:

1️⃣ Follow @elleboxco + @ilikevina on Instagram
2️⃣ Make sure you’ve downloaded they Hey! VINA app and sign up!
3️⃣ Tag up to 10 friends on the Instagram post!
4️⃣ Share on your own page for bonus entries (Be sure to tag both brands in the photo)

PRIZE:

6 months subscription to Ellebox for you AND a friend! THAT’S HUGE!! The comfort box includes your choice of organic tampons and/or pads, chocolate, tea, and two wellness gifts!

We will draw and announce the winner on Friday, June 30th! Good luck!

RULES:

👉🏼Must be following both accounts at the time of drawing
👉🏽Must be 18 years or older + live in the US
👉🏾Must respond to winning notification DM within 24 hours or prize will be awarded to another participant.
👉🏿 This contest is not associated with Instagram.

(Feature image via Refinery29)