Anxiety and Your Period: Tips for Relief

Do you feel more irritable a week before your period?

Getting more frequent mood swings?

Crying your eyes out only to realize that your period is due and that’s the reason you were feeling more upset than usual?

During PMS your body goes through the toll of preparing for a reproductive cycle, which requires the body to channel much of its resources into a particular direction, making other bodily functions work on a recession of resources. Anxiety thus becomes the cause as well as the result.

What are the symptoms of PMS?

1. Irritability and tiredness - during PMSing, the feelings of irritability, as well as tiredness, are obvious, your body is preparing to shed a piece of itself. Other factors like lifestyle, and external and internal factors play a vital role in this.  
2. Fatigue and tension - Your body's efforts and your daily wear and tear along with the fast-moving lifestyle, all together contribute to a warrior’s lifestyle such as yours. Fatigue and tension in this whirlpool are inevitable. 
3. Mood swings - Swings of shades and feelings, hormonal deviations, and all other possible feelings on the spectrum get triggered, as your body goes through a repeated cycle of transition. Anxiety too thus becomes both a symptom and a consequence completing this cycle of discomfort
4. Trouble concentrating - Because of so many distractions in your surroundings, it is understandable that concentration would be faltering.

What are the solutions to tackle PMS?

1. Relaxation - the best possible way to relax would be to accept the situation. The anxiety that you feel is an indication that your body needs relaxation, both physical as well as mental. So take this time to pamper yourself, destress and go on a long drive, spend time with someone you are most at ease with, and catch up on your hobby.
2. Exercise - This might seem a little difficult to follow, so try something light and easy, something that would stretch your body into a relaxed state, then tire it further. Choose guided meditation, yoga, and even a brisk walk. 
3. Diet - Be mindful of what you eat, and keep a track of your comfort foods as well as your mindful meals. But make sure to not deny yourself the comfort that you need while ensuring that the nutrients that your body requires reach you. 
4. Visit the doctor - While you know what you are feeling best, a little help from your doctor can ensure the best for your health and well-being. Both your physician and your therapist could help you understand and tackle your situation better. So, seek help that you know you need.

Your body loves you, and its primary job is to ensure your safety. In return, it is your job to harness your well-being. Both you and your body are worthy and deserving of care. So, take care.