Premenstrual Syndrome is a fact, and we like it or not, it plays a havoc in a woman’s life at least for a week before getting the monthly period. With pandemic still lurking around, working from home and managing household chores is having a major impact on the mental health, especially on women during those days.

While every woman undergoes certain mood swings during premenstrual days, for some it could end up as an emotional rollercoaster ride. Extreme mood swings, depression, sudden spells of crying, loss of appetite or severe cravings, social withdrawal and lack of focus can continue from a week to ten days, making you wonder if everything is fine with your mental wellbeing.

Also Read: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Although some amount of PMS symptoms is quite common, one should know the underlying reasons that are causing too much trouble in overall wellbeing.

What Causes PMS?

There is no definite cause behind Premenstrual Syndrome.

Hormonal Changes:

Hormones are perhaps the main culprit behind these sudden triggers and fluctuations leading to severe symptoms.

Insufficient Serotonin:

Serotonin, the brain chemical which plays a major role in controlling moods may have a major to role to play, according to experts. Lack of this brain chemical, an important neurotransmitter may lead to fatigue, insomnia, either extreme food craving or total loss of appetite.

Also Read: Serotonin: Structure, Crucial Functions And Adverse Effects

How To Handle PMS?

Well, doctors strongly recommend making certain lifestyle and dietary changes while dealing with this monthly mayhem, but it is widely agreed that workouts are the best way to beat it. Researchers believe that regular aerobics including, walking, running, swimming etc, trigger endorphins that help in alleviating more physical and mental issues faced during this time.

What Are Aerobics?

Aerobics are of two types – high impact and low impact exercises. Aerobics is often defined as a fun workout like Zumba, free style dance, step exercises where stretching and strength training is combined to achieve flexibility, muscular strength, cardiovascular health etc. Other forms of aerobics include cycling, swimming, jogging or running, brisk walking which can have a positive impact on your mind and body, in just three weeks.

Swimming:

Swimming is fun and working out in water just for 30 minutes, brings down levels of anxiety, depression considerably. It is also a great cardio workout, builds great body strength and releases endorphins that will make you feel good, better and happy. Make it a habit to go swimming regularly for both mental and physical wellbeing.

Brisk Walk:

Walking is an amazing activity and boosts your mood instantly by improving blood circulation to the brain and body. If you are pressed for time or living in a community with no working out facilities due to the pandemic, go for at least 10 minutes of brisk walk. It improves focus, concentration, positivity and prevents social withdrawal, a common occurrence during PMS.

Also Read: Want To Get Fit? Just Walk For 30 Minutes A Day

Running:

Running or jogging during morning or evening hours will have a great positive impact on your mood. A good jog can control stress levels, beat depression, improve memory and help you catch a good night sleep. Run for at least 15 to 30 minutes daily for ten days and notice the benefits yourself.

Cycling:

If you love cycling and have been lazing by it, saddle it now! Cycling not only improves blood circulation but also releases endorphins, serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine that play a crucial role in mental wellbeing. It prevents chemical imbalances thus by reducing severe mood swings and that feeling of being alone, helplessness and self-harm, few of the severe issues faced by some women during PMS.

Dance:

Yes. That’s right. Zumba is a part of aerobic activity and it’s a lot of fun too. Let your hair down and dance your way to happiness. It greatly improves your mood and as you learn the new moves, it instils you with confidence, happiness. What’s more, it also helps you lose weight, improve posture and burn all those extra calories away.