My go-to tips for keeping pms symptoms at bay
If you’re one of the not-so-lucky ones like me, that time of the month can be a b*tch. I made the personal decision to go off of my birth control pills about six years ago, as I didn’t want synthetic hormones in my body. After going off of it, I started to feel much better emotionally, and also noticed my belly bloat went down tremendously.
However, some of the not-so-fun side effects — like cramping and breakouts — remained. Fortunately, over the years, I’ve discovered some natural ways to keep these symptoms at bay.
FOR YOUR SKIN
If you deal with hormonal skin breakouts, first and foremost I suggest getting to the root of the problem — looking at things like your diet, how much water you’re drinking and even considering an herbal supplement to help balance hormones. (I’m a huge fan of Megafood Women’s One Daily which contains a balancing blend including Ashwagandha, ginger, dandelion, and raspberry leaf.)
But for on-the-spot breakouts, I love the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Bentonite Clay Mask. It pulls out nasty stuff from your pores, and leaves your skin feeling fresh & glowing. You can buy it online or at your local Whole Foods for under $10!
FOR BELLY BLOAT
During that time of the month, I try to limit my caffeine intake which can work against you in excess — same goes for alcohol! Instead, I reach for herbal tea like peppermint to ease belly bloat while cooling and calming the body. It’s great for any digestive issues too!
FOR TUMMY CRAMPS + HEADACHES
Midol used to be my go-to, and I’ll admit I still reach for it from time to time if the going gets rough! However, I recently discovered Clary Calm essential oil blend. It contains a soothing blend of clary sage, lavender, bergamot, roman chamomile, cedarwood, ylang ylang, geranium, fennel, carrot seed, palmarosa, and berry essential oils specifically designed to support a women’s menstrual cycle.
It comes in a lovely roller bottle, which I like to rub on my tummy, behind my neck and on my chest during that time of the month. It’s totally helps ease my cramping and headaches and I’m so happy to have found something that works for me! (You can
FOR YOUR MOOD
Mood swings got ya down? Start by taking a look at your diet! I like to up my magnesium levels, starting with dark leafy greens. Throw ’em in your green smoothies, stir-fries and omelets or make a big ol’ salad. Your body will thank you! I notice that when I’m eating clean, whole foods, it also helps minimize other not-so-fun symptoms too!
Do you struggle with PMS? What are your favorite ways to keep your symptoms at bay?
xoxo,
Rachel
