Do you know what PMS is?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurring disorder of the luteal phase that can occur during the 7-10 days before menstruation and usually ends a few hours after it begins. The picture of symptoms is varied and includes a range of complaints both of a psychological nature such as irritability, aggression, anxiety, depression and altered appetite, and other types of complaints such as increased water retention, breast pain, headaches, bloating and weight gain, and altered intestinal transit.

How to alleviate PMS complaints?

Certain measures such as exercise and relaxation practices can be taken to alleviate PMS complaints. 

Avoiding sedentariness and engaging in moderate exercise such as walking a half-hour a day helps to release feel-good hormones and improve venous circulation, reducing water retention.
During this luteal phase it is normal to feel more tired and fatigued, which is why it is important to sleep 7-8 hours a night to allow the body to recover lost energy and to sustain daily activities during the day. 
Practising relaxing disciplines such as meditation and yoga help manage the stress, tension and anxiety that can occur during this phase. 

Let's look together at 4 effective yoga exercises to relieve anxiety and regain optimum mental and physical well-being:

Vrksasana (tree pose):
It increases the ability to concentrate and helps to divert attention from external concerns. It is recommended to keep it for the same duration on both sides.

 

Bhujangasana (cobra pose):
Very effective in counteracting the symptoms of an excessive build-up of stress; it acts especially on the digestive system, stimulates the central nervous system and activates the circulation.

 

Balasana (child's pose):
To tone the entire abdominal area, activate circulation and 'massage' the main internal organs; aids digestion and intestinal function

 

Marjariasana (cat pose):
It helps you find the right breathing rhythm because it opens the chest and allows you to push the air you inhale deeper; it is among the most effective yoga exercises for reducing stress.