PMS SOS: The Fastest Way to Banish Symptoms Naturally
Ah, the joy of PMS – said no woman ever! Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) has a knack for turning even the sunniest of dispositions into storm clouds.
Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, are ugly symptoms that show up before your period. It’s a common condition that affects millions of women worldwide, causing a range of physical and emotional symptoms in the days leading up to menstruation. While PMS symptoms can vary from mild to severe, they can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being.
In the sea of remedies for PMS, one tried-and-true solution often flies under the radar: the age-old ritual of soaking in a warm bath.
Here at Tub Therapy, we're passionate advocates of bath time for its myriad of health benefits to both physical and mental well-being, including the relief it brings to most aches and pains including PMS symptoms.
We've navigated the storm of PMS blues ourselves – those stubborn discomforts that just won't budge – and time and again, bath time has proven to be our saving grace. So, let's dive deeper into why indulging in a warm bath isn't just a luxurious treat but a powerful tool in combatting the symptoms of PMS.
Understanding PMS
It's essential to understand what PMS is and how it affects the body. PMS typically occurs in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which begins after ovulation and ends with the start of menstruation. During this time, fluctuations in hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can trigger a range of physical and emotional symptoms.
The signs and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can be a laundry list of woes, but not every woman will be hit with the full gamut all at once. While some may grapple with bloating and breast tenderness, others might tango with mood swings and fatigue.
Common symptoms of PMS include:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Cramps
- Muscle aches
- Anxiety
- Depression
While the exact cause of PMS is not fully understood, factors such as hormone imbalances, neurotransmitter changes, and lifestyle factors may contribute to its development.
But here's the silver lining: for most women, these symptoms tend to bid adieu within about four days after the menstrual period kicks off. So while it might feel like a rollercoaster ride of discomfort, there's a light at the end of the tunnel – and it's called relief.
If you're feeling like those four days are stretching into an eternity amidst PMS woes, don't fret! Grab your favorite CBD bath bomb, let the warm water flow, and sink into the tub for quick relief.
How a Warm Bath Can Quickly Alleviate PMS
A warm bath is like a cozy cocoon of relief, enveloping both body and mind in soothing warmth. When it comes to alleviating PMS symptoms such as muscle aches, bloating, irritability, and depression, a warm bath can work wonders on multiple fronts.
Firstly, the heat from the bath water helps to relax tense muscles, easing any cramps or muscle aches that often accompany PMS. This relaxation of muscles can provide significant relief from discomfort and pain.
Secondly, the warmth of the bath can promote better circulation, helping to reduce bloating by encouraging the body to release excess fluid retention. This can lead to a feeling of lightness and decreased discomfort in the abdominal area.
Furthermore, taking a warm bath can have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to alleviate irritability and promote a sense of calmness and relaxation. The soothing environment of a warm bath provides an opportunity to unwind and de-stress, which can be particularly beneficial during the emotionally turbulent time of PMS.
Lastly, warm baths have been shown to promote the release of chemicals in your body that make you happy: endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins are natural chemicals in the body that act as painkillers and mood enhancers, giving you a feel-good boost. This can help lift mood and reduce feelings of depression or low mood often experienced during PMS.
Meanwhile, a 2019 study in the International Journal of Hyperthermia suggests that the brain pathways controlling body temperature also influence depression. This means that soaking in a warm tub may raise core body temperature, potentially triggering changes in the brain that increase mood-regulating hormones like serotonin.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. It helps with feelings of well-being and happiness. While both contribute to mood regulation, serotonin has broader effects on mood, appetite, and sleep regulation, while endorphins primarily regulate pain perception and mood.
To elevate the benefits of a warm bath even further, consider adding a CBD bath bomb to the mix. CBD (cannabidiol) has been lauded for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief, relaxation, and mood enhancement.
By infusing your bath with CBD, you can enhance the soothing properties of the warm water, providing targeted relief to areas of discomfort while promoting a sense of overall well-being.
If you're sold but lacking a tub, no problem! Fortunately, other natural PMS remedies can ease your discomfort and alleviate those pesky symptoms, all without reaching for a single pill.
Other Natural Remedies for PMS Symptoms
Balanced Diet
Let's face it, sometimes all we want is to dive headfirst into a tub of ice cream during PMS but a nutritious diet is key to managing the symptoms that often accompany menstruation. If you're grappling with cramps, bloating, and sluggishness, opting for foods known to alleviate these discomforts can work wonders. Load up on colorful fruits and veggies, toss in some whole grains and lean proteins, and maybe sneak in a square or two of dark chocolate for good measure. Who says healthy eating can't be deliciously rebellious?
Regular Exercise
Ah, the magical endorphin rush of exercise – nature's way of giving PMS a swift kick in the pants. Whether you're into yoga, dancing like nobody's watching, or powerlifting your troubles away, getting that body moving can work wonders for those mood swings and muscle cramps.
Stress Management
In a world of chaos, stress seems to be the only constant – but fear not, for we are masters of zen in the face of PMS-induced chaos. Cue the soothing sounds of meditation, the deep breathing exercises that make you feel like a yoga guru, and the mindfulness techniques that have you embracing your inner zen master. Say it with me now: "Om."
Herbal Hijinks
Time to channel your inner witch (or wizard) with some herbal magic. Chasteberry for hormone balance, evening primrose oil for the bloating blues – the world of herbal remedies is your cauldron, so brew up a potion that's as mystical as it is effective. Just remember, always consult your friendly neighborhood healthcare professional before embarking on any magical adventures.
CBD Topicals for Pain Relief
CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. Using a CBD topical, such as a gel roller, can provide targeted relief for symptoms like cramps and muscle aches. Simply apply the topical directly to the affected area and massage gently until absorbed. Reapply as needed for additional relief.
Swipe left on PMS woes with Tub Therapy's The Wingwoman CBD XFreeze Pain Relief Gel Roller: Your trusty sidekick for conquering cramps and kicking PMS to the curb.
Our verdict?
In the quest for rapid and reliable relief from PMS symptoms, there's no need to search far and wide – just head straight to the tub! Taking a warm bath isn't just a time-honored tradition; it's a tried-and-true remedy with a stellar track record. Not only does it soothe muscle aches and deflate bloating, but it also unleashes a flood of mood-boosting endorphins and serotonins. Plus, it sets the stage for a restful night's sleep. So, when PMS comes knocking, it's time to indulge in a sumptuous soak and let the rejuvenating powers of the warm bath work their magic.
