Mood swings are the so-called “monsters” before the menstrual cycle (Periods) experienced by women. These fluctuations in mood can range from happiness and contentment to sadness or anger. One minute we feel that we are unstoppable and the next minute, an accidentally dropped spoon feels like the end of the world! Hilarious! Isn’t it? Well let’s explore the reasons behind these turmoil in mood, the systemic changes that occur in a woman’s body during the menstrual cycle, and some interesting hacks to help manage them.
The Menstrual Cycle and Hormones:
The menstrual cycle is a complex shift of hormones that occurs in a woman’s body roughly every 28 days in a month. The two key hormones involved in this process are estrogen and progesterone, which are produced by the ovaries.
The cycle can be divided into two main phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase begins with the onset of menstruation (1st day of periods) and lasts until ovulation (the ovum released from ovaries, occurs around 12-14th day of the cycle). During this phase, estrogen levels rise, contributing to feelings of energy and positivity. However, after ovulation, during the luteal phase, progesterone takes center stage.
Estrogen Dominance and Happiness: During the follicular phase, when estrogen levels are on the rise, women often experience increased energy, improved mood, and a heightened sense of well-being. Estrogen has mood-boosting effects and can enhance feelings of happiness and contentment. This is the unstoppable phase.
Progesterone’s Rage and Gloom: As progesterone takes over during the luteal phase, it can lead to increased emotional sensitivity and a higher likelihood of experiencing mood swings. This is the time when irritability, anxiousness, extreme sadness takes control. Sometimes, women don’t realise that they get angry or upset on little things, even experience burst of emotions. It is this rise and fall in hormones that modulate every mood.
Some interesting hacks to tackle mood swings
While the conventional lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient sleep are crucial for managing mood swings, here are some interesting hacks that may provide an additional relief:
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Aromatherapy with Essential Oils:Experiment with calming essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or clary sage. Inhaling these scents or using them in a diffuser can have a positive impact on mood and stress levels. As an alternative one can also use scented candles of the same essence.
Colour Therapy:Surround yourself with soothing colours like blues and greens. These colours are associated with calmness, tranquility, and nature, and they tend to have a positive impact on mood. Consider wearing clothing in these calming hues or incorporating them into your living spaces to create a visually serene environment.
Laugh Therapy:Watch a favourite comedy show or listen to a funny podcast. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, helping to counteract feelings of irritability.
Warm Baths with Epsom Salts:Take a warm bath with Epsom salts. The magnesium in Epsom salts can help relax muscles and alleviate tension, promoting a sense of calmness. An alternative to it can be Soak your feet in a basin of warm water. Add a few drops of essential oils or Epsom salt if available. Foot soaks can be surprisingly relaxing and help with overall stress reduction.
Power of Positive Affirmations:Create a list of positive affirmations tailored to your needs during this time. Repeat these affirmations daily to reinforce positive thoughts and counteract negative emotions.Herbal Teas:Explore herbal teas known for their calming properties, such as chamomile or peppermint. Warm beverages can have a soothing effect and contribute to relaxation.Creative Outlets:Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting. Expressing yourself creatively can be a therapeutic way to channel emotions and shift your focus.Breathing Exercises:Practice deep breathing exercises to promote relaxation. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen, focusing on slow, deep breaths to calm the nervous system.Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique):Explore the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) or tapping. This involves gently tapping specific points on the body while focusing on specific thoughts or emotions, and it has been associated with stress reduction. These points are located on meridians, which are channels where energy flows.
Top of the Head (TH): Center of the crown.
Eyebrow (EB): Beginning of the eyebrow, just above and to one side of the nose.
Side of the Eye (SE): On the bone bordering the outside corner of the eye.
Under the Eye (UE): On the bone under an eye.
Under the Nose (UN): Above the upper lip.
Chin (Ch): Midway between the point of your chin and the bottom of your lower lip.
Collarbone (CB): The junction where the sternum, collarbone, and the first rib meet.
Under the Arm (UA): About four inches below the armpit.
Acupressure Points:Discover acupressure points that are believed to alleviate mood swings. For example, applying gentle pressure to the Third Eye Point (located between the eyebrows) is thought to promote emotional balance.
Keep in mind that every person will respond to these tricks differently, so you need to figure out what works best for you. A comprehensive strategy for controlling mood swings during the menstrual cycle may involve combining these unconventional tactics with conventional methods. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for personalised guidance, if mood fluctuations are severe or chronic.
