PMDD can be incredibly challenging, especially when the symptoms negatively impact your mental health. Let's talk about something super important to combat some symptoms—self-care! I used to think it was all about bubble baths and face masks (which, don't get me wrong, are amazing), but I've learned that it's so much more than that. It's about treating ourselves with the love that we give to others every day.
Hi, my name is Pranamya Rangaraju, and I'm a devoted Psyche & Cycle team member. Recently, our team launched a 5-day Self-Care Challenge focusing on five key areas of well-being: psychological, internal, emotional, physical, and social. I participated in Day 1 and Day 5 of the challenge, which emphasized psychological and social well-being.
On Day 1, the focus was on my psychological well-being, which is crucial for managing the symptoms of PMDD that affect mood and mental disturbances. I started the challenge with a calming meditation session using one of my favorite apps, Headspace. Sitting in a quiet space, cuddled in a blanket, I focused on deep breathing and guided my mind to a peaceful place in the mountains. Meditation helped me to release tension throughout my body, which can be beneficial to women with PMDD when dealing with various symptoms like emotional fluctuations or stress. After meditation, I practiced yoga. The stretches and different yoga poses helped me connect my mind and body. Yoga improved my flexibility and gave me a sense of relaxation throughout the day. The combination of meditation and yoga soothed my body and helped me to clear my mind.
Day 5 was all about nurturing my social connections and learning new things, which play an essential role in supporting mental health during times of PMDD. I engaged in meaningful conversations with my loved ones, which uplifted my spirits. I talked with my two cousins, sharing laughter and heartfelt stories. I also dedicated time to learning anatomy, which helped me get ready for the next school year. To unwind further, I treated myself to a relaxing movie with my boyfriend, allowing me to enjoy the simple things.
These experiences taught me the benefits of focusing on psychological and social self-care. Prioritizing my psychological well-being through meditation and yoga has helped me manage stress and anxiety better, which are common symptoms of PMDD. Similarly, nurturing my social connections distracted me from daily stressors and allowed me to have a good laugh, essential for maintaining mental health.
Practicing self-care is a necessity, especially when managing conditions like PMDD. By taking time for yourself and addressing your psychological and social needs, you can work to alleviate these symptoms and enhance your overall well-being. Don't let these symptoms get the best of you, when in reality, they can be manageable. Good luck in your self-care journey!
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