2018 Apr 9
Ladies, it’s that time of the month again. You’re yelling at people for breathing the same air you do, experiencing some mad cravings for food you don’t eat on the regular, and most commonly, crying for the slightest aggravation (we’ve all been there). While technology has now advanced to a stage where fresh food can be produced through a 3D printer, nothing preventing PMS has yet emerged on the market.
Which means, unfortunately, that we’re still forced to rely on age-old comfort techniques to chase away those monthly blues. So, without further ado, lets dive into some of the best feel-good techniques to make your PMS an opportunity to live your best life.
1. Get those endorphins flowing
While exercising even when you’re not on your period is a cause of tears and agony, exercising when you feel your PMS reserves build up is seriously underrated. Endorphins are the feel-good hormones your body releases when you do enjoyably activities like eat chocolate, exercise, and much more.
If you’re really feeling out of it, do some light exercise or even go for a brisk walk. Soon, you’re guaranteed to feel like an invincible goddess, with the golden ichor of the gods flowing through you.
2. Have that second piece of chocolate
Ladies, science has come to the rescue with some well backed evidence on why chocolate can be good for you. Research does in fact show that consuming chocolate boosts the production of those endorphins discussed above, making you feel so much calmer and satiated. Forget the science behind it; eating chocolate feels SO good, and what other time should you indulge than when pesky PMS has you feeling like Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street?
So, don’t second guess that second serving, or even that second slab of chocolate. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest and celebrated; indulging yourself when you’re in clear need of serious RNR makes it easier to battle through the less pleasant parts of life.
3. Hot water bottles to the rescue!
If you’re prone to severe cramps, and/or abdominal and back pain, hot water bottles are a true godsend. Filling these bad boys up with hot water and placing it on the area that is producing pain, can work wonders for the temple that is your body. Not only are these cheap and easily sourced, they’re also truly effective against some of the more nightmarish aspects of your monthly period. Get yours today!
4. Catch all ‘em zzzzzz
While getting sufficient amounts of rest and relaxation is almost a myth in this present day and age, getting 8 or more hours of sleep during this time can make a huge difference on your overall health. Not only is this necessary for your physical wellbeing, but also obviously helps with the mental stress and tension notoriously characteristic of *that* time of the month.
5. Meditation
While this may sound a little too hippy for your tastes, don’t be so quick to discard the benefits of properly undertaken meditation. No, you don’t need to whip out incense sticks or try to be one with nature; just do some deep breathing in a quiet atmosphere and feel the difference. There are many different techniques you can follow, all of which can be easily found online. One particular technique is the 4, 7, 8 Method. Breathe out all the oxygen in your lungs, inhale deeply for 4 counts, hold for 7, and exhale for 8.
6. Eat well (but what does this actually mean?!)
Okay sure, eating chocolate is recommended as an indulgence during this *obviously* very difficult time of the month. But apart from that, eating well (which in this case doesn’t mean pigging out fast food btw) makes a world of a difference when you’re PMSing. The following tips are best followed to feel your best self before and during your period:
– Avoid food with excessive salt to reduce uncomfortable bloating.
– Gorge on dairy products (those rich in calcium and vitamin D) before your period, for less severe cramps and a better mood (get that Kottu with cheese to go, girl).
– Increasing your protein intake will help you feel less tired and give you more energy.
– Drink TONS of water (or your body will retain the little water you drink and cause you to bloat like Aunt Marge from the Prisoner of Azkaban).
– Vegetables too! Alas, our mothers were right all along – those greens can really make a difference in how you feel when you’re PMSing.
7. Take it easy and find time to do something you enjoy
Any girl can attest to the fact that PMS doesn’t just wreak havoc on you physically. It also takes a mental toll, affecting how you feel, and your general temperance during the days in question. It would therefore be wise to take some time off, being kind to yourself, and do something you enjoy. Whatever this is, it will help you get through your days with fewer temper tantrums, mental breakdowns and murderous rages (boyfriends, beware!).
PSA: wash your face more during this time of the month. Excessive oil can lead to acne breakouts and ain’t nobody got time for that.
