1. Chomp down on nuts and protein
Let's quickly reflect ladies. We have those days where we're absolutely craving certain foods and some days you just can't be bothered to lift that spoon up. Even when you're feeling this way, you still need your nutrients. Plus, when you're missing meals, this is how you attain migraines and feel weaker than usual.
Eat brain-happy nuts like walnuts and pumpkin seeds and toss in some dark chocolate to release endorphins. Remember: Your iron also gets low, so feed your blood with lean protein. Sipping on bone broth throughout the day can also help, while being light on your tummy.
2. Soak it up
Great news for bath lovers: a relaxing soak could be just the relief you need if you're struggling with cramps. But don't forget one important ingredient: epsom salt. The epsom salts and magnesium helps provide pain relief and the bath will bring you down relaxation lane.
3. Try aromatherapy
Essential oils like clary sage, lavender, geranium, cypress, and rose are our go-to solution for reducing mood swings and relieving fatigue or vexing body aches that come along with premenstrual depression. It may also help alleviate symptoms like cramping and mood swings by balancing hormonal imbalances.
There are many ways to integrate these therapeutic drops of goodness into your lifestyle. For instance, you can simply add a few drops of essential oils to a warm bath, rub it into your temples, add small doses to medicinal teas or even utilise them in the form of inhalers and air diffusers for a soothing, spa-at-home experience. Here’s a simple run-down to determine which essential oils work best to target your specific PMS symptoms:
Depression – Oils of clary sage, jasmine, neroli and ylang-ylang
Mood Swings – Oils of lavender, clary sage, and ylang ylang
Anxiety – Oils of lavender, bergamot and ylang-ylang
Cramps – Oils of lavender, geranium, and marjoram
4. Embrace the fashion challenge
This is the time to wear dark colours and flowy clothing, allowing your intimate area to breathe and have space (as well as allow for our guest star: the food baby hehe). Anything drapey and feminine is your best friend right now! Trying to force yourself to wear your skinny white jeans is just going against mother nature! Cut yourself some slack, you’re going through enough as it is!
5. Drink water
Before you come at us and tell us it feels like everyone is constantly telling us to drink more but really!! We can't emphasise enough to you to try and make a point of it during your period. Staying hydrated will keep you at your most optimal state; feeling refreshed, your skin glowing, regenerate sufficient hormones or chemicals that are used for the body to function well, and in turn, alleviating PMS symptoms.