It is said that women who exhibit snappy or irritable behaviour must be PMSing. But only women who have PMS symptoms know how debilitating and frustrating the condition can be. Psychotherapist, Dr Vihan Sanyal says, “In my years of practice as a psychotherapist, I have had many women describe their plight of battling such conditions. Stress and negatively charged living conditions do play a major role in certain gynaecological conditions like PMS and PMDD. In fact, even Endometriosis and Uterine fibroids have a direct corelation with a women’s’ emotional state and overall mental health. An independent study has found that the likelihood of mental disorders like anxiety, phobia and depression are much higher in women with premenstrual conditions.”
He talks about Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and looks at how mental health affects the condition. “Most of the menstrual and female reproductive disorders are affected adversely by emotional stress, so focussing on various de-stressing activities during the course of treatment works,” he says.
Here are five things everyone should do on a regular basis to de-stress:
1. Breathing Exercises – There are some easy and effective breathing techniques which one can learn and should practice on a daily basis. I recommend my clients to start and end their day with breathwork. Breathing exercises promote relaxation and when practiced on a daily basis can help reduce anxiety and stress.
2. Outdoor Time – Going for regular walks in the open or playing outdoor sports can drastically reduce stress levels and promote sound mental and physical health. Neuro chemicals get a boost with every physical activity and this often acts as a natural anti-anxiety and anti-depressant.
3. Learn Something New – Picking up a new hobby, learning a new language or skill. When we learn new things, new neural pathways are formed and increases the plasticity of our brain. It is common knowledge now that our brain keeps changing until we die and learning new things and introducing new positive experiences to the brain helps this process. Learning something new releases a neuro chemical called Dopamine. Increase in dopamine levels will help you to feel loved and cared for (It’s a “feel good” chemical).
4. Play With Pets – If you are fond of animals, then I recommend you to spend time with pets. Spending time with pets and engaging in playful activities with them will help you to relax and make you feel refreshed. It’s a wonderful way to de-stress.
5. Pamper Yourself – Treat yourself at every opportunity. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Spend time at the parlour, go for massages, do some retail therapy, take yourself out to a restaurant and order your favourite dishes. Do all of this without feeling guilty. Everyone deserves to be pampered. Don’t wait for others to pamper you, pamper yourself!
“Women don’t need to suffer every time during periods. There are many options and tools available which can improve the quality of life. They can improve your mental and physical health. You can feel more in control of your moods and emotions. Keep your stress levels low and speak with your doctors and mental health professionals where required. They will explore treatment options with you. Many conditions can be treated in conjunction or independent of pharmaceuticals,” he says.
