Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is experienced by all women at one time or another during their lifespan. It is still unknown as to why such symptoms as headaches, stomach cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, weight gain and irritability occur, however through the realms of Ayurveda and Homeopathy, the physicians therein believe that lifestyle factors which disrupt the body’s natural rhythm, creating hormonal imbalances play a significant part in generating all symptoms. Lack of exercise, bad eating habits, overworking, tension, stress, travel and difficulties in relationships will all contribute to cyclic patterns of anxiety, mood swings, emotional turbulence and depression, which all equate to PMS.
Gynecologist and obstetrician, Dr.Guy Abraham developed a classification system for PMS back in 1980. Four types grouped PMS, Type A (Anxiety) often accompanied by mood swings and irritability. Type C (Craving) would result with headaches, fatigue and sugar cravings. Type D (Depression) would have results in the region of memory loss and confusion and Type H (Water H2O retention) would result in weight gain, tender breasts and bloatedness (not to mention the further psychological distress that attaches itself to weight gain and negative body image). Any woman could suffer any combination of any of the above, with symptoms altering with every menstrual cycle depending on the earlier lifestyle factors mentioned earlier plus hormone fluctuations and dominations.
Based on the four main types of PMS outlined above there are self-help measures recommended. Specially selected Yoga positions will provide not only immediate relief for the discomfort of PMS but will give continual opportunity for inner renewal and long-term benefits in reducing (and in some cases eradicating) all symptoms therein.
Yoga Postures for Type A (Anxiety) : The Corpse Pose, The Crocodile, The Child’s Pose All three of these are simple relaxation poses. In turn they will allow the mind to focus inward and relax deeply and completely whilst focusing the breath on the organs such as the abdomen, pelvis and back muscles.
Yoga Postures for Type C (Craving) : The Bow, The Bridge (modified) These two postures will stimulate blood flow to the abdomen and pelvic areas thus helping to regulate sugar levels and metabolism. Further within these 2 poses the ovaries, uterus and abdominal organs will be stretched and toned. Performing these positions will increase energy and lift the mood bringing with it a sense of rejuvenation and relieving of carbohydrate cravings. This type of PMS will translate the need for glucose to that of the need for sugar and/or chocolate (which contains magnesium which is needed to normalize glucose metabolism) however, unrefined sugar and chocolate have the side effect of a ‘let-down’ feeling, fatigue and headaches.
Type D (Depression) : Upward Facing DogThis dog posture is excellent for stimulating both the front and back of the body and bringing renewed strength to the lumbar and pelvic area. Gazing upward together with stretching skyward help counteract the downward pull of gravity, and that too of depression.
Type H (H20 Retention) : Wide-Angle Pose, The Plough Gentle inversions help relieve and reverse the effects of water retention, especially in the feet, ankles and lower legs. Blood and energy circulation is stimulated, the entire pelvic region is opened and energized thus counteracting swelling. Care is to be taken to not do full inverted postures whilst on your menses.
All of the above postures, practiced regularly, during and in between the menstrual cycle, will all contribute to lessening the discomfort of PMS symptoms.
Yoga With Alicia (Dogstar) 