Sometimes it may be hard to control yourself around others when you are having your period. Here are some easy tips for you to follow.
Step 1
Warn people ahead of time that you're not in a good mood. That way they'll be more prepared for possible irritable behaviour from you.
Step 2
Try to relax - the more you relax, the more controlled you are. Picture relaxing scenes and don't tense up.
Step 3
Treat yourself - spend half an hour body-brushing before a shower or applying moisturiser all over your body in a mini-massage. Get your nails done, or a facial.
Step 4
Eat properly - a diet of complex carbohydrates to maintain blood sugar levels, fibre to reduce bloating and protein will help stop mood swings and cravings. Do not give in to lethargy and simply snack through your entire period, as this will make you feel much worse.
Step 5
If you feel nervous or sick, excuse yourself from the room you happen to be in (if necessary) and try drinking some water - you might feel a bit better. Just relax and take deep breaths.
Step 6
Stop thinking about it. Worrying about it all the time would make you even more nervous and irritable. Keep yourself busy and try to take things with a grain of salt.
Step 7
Be empathetic. Try to empathize and understand that not everyone is trying to annoy or anger you.
Step 8
Change your pad/tampon regularly. It will make you less worried about stains, odours, cleanliness, etc.
Step 9
Let it all out! When you get to a "safe" place, such as your bedroom, release any of the bad emotions you've been hiding during the day. Crying in response to the hormonal balance in your body is perfectly natural, and will help to relieve tension.
Tips
- You're not alone. Other women will know what you're going through. You can ask your friends if you need help or advice.
- Be comfortable, relax, and take things slowly.
- Talk to an older person (like your mom) if you don't feel comfortable.
- Exercise to let energy out. It doesn't have to be intense - it can be something simple like a few push-ups three times a day. Exercise releases endorphines to make you happy, and increases blood flow around the body, which can help relieve cramps.
- Some women get low progesterone levels during this time, which can cause anxiety-depression, mood swings, cramps, and a bad case of the cranky-bitchies. Progesterone is a natural hormone that is available without prescription (Progest is one good brand); in many cases application of progesterone may relieve symptoms within an hour. For more information, see How to Get Through PMS.
Warnings
- Don't go around telling everyone you got your period. Some things are best kept private.
- Don't be afraid to leave. If you get sick or feel badly, don't torture yourself. Let yourself rest and have some down-time so you can relax.
- Don't use your period to justify behaviour that you know is wrong, such as being mean or impluse buying. Treating yourself and letting out bad emotions shouldn't end with an overdraft and broken friendships!
Things You'll Need
- Confidence
- Courage
- Extra pads/tampons
