Hello everyone! I hope you’re having a great morning so far. I’m about to head to a hot yoga class and then take care of some admin work. Today, I want to talk about something that affects many of us: premenstrual syndrome (PMS). We’ll explore what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, how you can practice self-care to make your pre-period days happier and healthier.
As women, we know that our menstrual cycle can be empowering, but can also bring challenges. The days leading up to our period can often feel like an emotional and physical rollercoaster. You might find yourself wondering, “Is there a way to make this time more comfortable?” The answer is a resounding yes! PMS is incredibly common, affecting the daily life of millions of women worldwide. It’s about more than just a little moodiness; it can get pretty disruptive and uncomfortable. You might experience symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, irritability, and those delightful cravings for chocolate and chips. But it’s important to remember that while these side effects are common, they’re not *normal.* Your body WANTS to be in balance, and there are ways to make your cycle less of an emotional and physical event.
PMS is a set of symptoms that typically occurs in the days leading up to your period. It’s like a not-so-pleasant reminder that Aunt Flo is on her way. These symptoms are linked to hormonal fluctuations, primarily involving estrogen and progesterone. Some women also experience Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a much more severe type of PMS.
There are several PMS symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, bloating, food cravings, and irritability. Fortunately, there are self-care strategies to conquer these PMS blues:
1. Familiarize Yourself with Your Cycle (and Give Yourself Grace)
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
3. Stay Active
4. Drink Plenty Of Fluids
5. Prioritize Sleep
6. Reduce Stress
7. Try Alternative Remedies
8. Track Your PMS Symptoms On A Calendar
Remember, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for your mental and physical well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed, and always listen to your body.
