Each month, I struggle with some severe PMS for at least the first three days of my period. It tends to be a little different each day (painful cramps and exhaustion, and then bloating and irritability usually follow), but it’s something that I’ve come to accept as a part of my monthly routine. And, in this fight, I am not alone.  

Health.com states that more than 85 percent of women will experience at least one symptom such as cramping, bloating, or general mood swings like irritation and sadness. PMS can also be described as a group of changes that can affect you on many levels, whether it be physical, emotional or behavioral. So now that we know what it means, how can we combat these symptoms?

Follow these tips to win the battle against PMS!

1. Go for some cardio to help with the cramping and to release endorphins

2. Drink some hot herbal tea like chamomile or lemon to help soothe your stomach

3. Soak in a warm bath with Epsom salt to relax your aching muscles

4. Do some light yoga or stretching

5. Call your mom

This one may seem silly, but sometimes we all need to talk to our moms when we aren’t feeling well

6. Anyone else who loves a good cry? 

Allow yourself some time for a good cry to get all of those extra emotions out. You can even throw on some sad music, that always does the trick for me.

7. Or, if you are not a crier and want to laugh, watch some hilarious movies and tv shows to put you in a better mood instantly

8. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated and flush your system of excess fluids and toxins

9. Eat whole raw foods like veggies and fruits and nix the salt, alcohol and caffeine

10. Grab some ibuprofen and take it three to four hours before your period begins, and don’t forget a heating pad for those annoying cramps

11. Get a massage – not only will it relax those muscles, but it will also remove tension and put you in a better mood overall

12. Soak up some sun rays each day to get that vitamin D (Helps in hormone balance)

13. Always get a solid 8 hours of sleep 

It is imperative to have a relaxed body when its that time of the month, as you are already feeling low on energy

14. Use purifying clay or charcoal masks to help your skin deal with hormonal breakouts

How do you successfully combat PMS each month? Any techniques you want to share?

Ready. Set. Boss. Our daily email is pouring out inspiration with the latest #BlackGirlBossUp moments, tips on hair, beauty and lifestyle to get you on track to a better you! Sign up today.

happy period , menstual cramps , period tips , pms