5 Ways to Destress On Your Period
Stress is a feeling of emotional strain or tension. We all experience it at some point in our lives, some more frequently than others. There are many different elements that can cause this monster, like your environment, your thoughts and your body, and it might be something you’re familiar with while PMSing and/or menstruating. Everyone experiences stress in one way or another, so how do we combat it? Here are my top 5 ways to destress while on your period.
Meditate with Deep Breathing Exercises
Through deep breathing, you can control stress, decrease anxiety and even improve your overall heart health. Try to find a quiet, comfortable place to relax, then take a normal breath followed by a deep breath. Take the air slowly in through your nose, allow your chest to rise, let your abdomen fully expand, and then slowly breathe out through your mouth. Try to give yourself at least 10 minutes for meditation. Doing this daily and/or when feeling overwhelmed might be the quick solution you didn’t know you needed.
Cut out Alcohol and Caffeine
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and caffeine during your period can cause stress levels to rise. Many people report caffeine increases their anxiety levels, as it drives adrenaline into your system and can cause you to feel dizzy, light-headed, sleepless, or nervous. Too much alcohol can impact your menses by causing an irregular cycle and poor diet; both of which are common causes of a stress-induced period.
Make Time for Hobbies, Interests, and Relaxation
No matter how many responsibilities you may have, it’s always important to make sure you give yourself some much-needed time off. Mental health days are essential both on and off your period when you feel any form of stress. If you feel too busy to relax, try to pick a certain time at least once a week to relax or do something you love to do. Try to have a spa day, relax at home or reorganize something—whatever makes you feel at peace.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is very important—even the slightest sleep deprivation can mess with your memory, mood, and judgment, and can also increase your stress level. You should be getting at least seven to nine hours per night. If you normally have a hard time falling asleep, try drinking chamomile tea before bed or use lavender essential oils in a diffuser and/or on your sheets. Wear a sleeping eye mask and do a little deep breathing to unwind.
Eat Healthy, Well-Balanced Meals
Continuously eating a healthy and well-balanced diet will help maintain your stress levels. Don’t be afraid to keep a healthy diet; it’s the easiest way to improve your health and well-being! Foods like avocado, bananas, chocolate, and even whole-wheat pretzels help boost your mood by triggering the brain to release a chemical called serotonin. Foods like swiss chard and other leafy vegetables help balance cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. Fatty fish are full of omega-3s, which help manage adrenaline levels. So eat well and have a happy stress-free period!
I hope these 5 tips can help make your period easier, as they have helped me while stressed— whether I’m on or off my period!
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