Massage is a wonderful way to ward off PMS blues. Every month, many women suffer from the physical and emotional symptoms of PMS. If you’re tired of the cramps, headaches, bloating, irritability, fatigue, and other unwanted problems during your monthly cycle, massage therapy can help.
Fluctuating hormones cause a range of unpleasant emotional symptoms. Massage releases neurotransmitters such as seratonin, dopamine, and oxytocin that are often referred to as “feel good” hormones. It also increases the flow of endorphins, which act as your body’s natural pain relievers. That euphoric feeling people feel after a massage is often associated with endorphin release. Regular massage decreases cortisol and insulin levels, which can help take your body out of fight-or-flight mode and leave you in a calm and restful state.
Massage also stimulates the body’s lymphatic system that aids in the removal of excess fluid, pathogens, dead blood cells, and toxins. This, along with muscle tissue manipulation, can help reduce bloating and cramping and relieve achiness. Incorporating essential oils such as rose, geranium, clary sage, lavender, and bergamot is also a safe and effective way of alleviating PMS. You can also use these oils at home in a warm bath or oil diffuser to help further soothe your symptoms.
If you already book monthly massages and you suffer from chronic PMS, this time is particularly beneficial to make those appointments. For those that are new to massage therapy, getting regular massage during PMS is great way to tap into your body’s own regenerative and healing mechanisms. Instead of feeling run down and glum during this point in your cycle, you can feel rejuvenated and well balanced with frequent massage.