Fatigue, mood swings, cramps, bloating — I'm familiar with all these PMS symptoms [1] and more. I'm not going to say they don't suck because they really, really do, but I have built up an arsenal of comforting products that make the impending arrival of my period slightly less of a pain.
This includes items that ease uncomfortable physical symptoms, like cramps, digestion issues [2], and joint pain, as well as emotional side effects. Of course, I could argue that a pair of comfy sweat shorts work for both. Ahead, the full scoop on 10 of my current PMS-fighting favourites.
Everlane the Retro Jersey Short
When I have PMS, I have no interest in wearing anything remotely restrictive, which is why I'm always in loose sundresses or sweats on the days leading up to my period. In the summer, I gravitate toward super comfy and lightweight sweat shorts, like the Everlane the Retro Jersey Short [3] ($38).
Rael Heating Patch for Menstrual Cramps
Sometimes I don't mind being chained to the couch in order to soothe my period cramps. However, on the days when I need to move around to get chores or errands done, I stick the Rael Heating Patch for Menstrual Cramps [4] ($6 for three patches) on the outside of my underwear. These essential oil-infused, self-warming patches offer heated relief for up to six hours.
Turquoise Suede Foldover Journal
When I'm emotionally overwhelmed or stressed out, jotting down a few sentences about how I'm feeling, or what caused me to feel that way, has proven to help me unwind. I fill up journals fast and am in need of a new one. I've been tempted to add the Turquoise Suede Foldover Journal [5] ($30) to my shopping cart — it's so beautiful!
Gaiam Yoga Mat
Before and during my period, I prioritise gentle exercise like yoga, stretching, and Pilates. I basically live on my Gaiam Yoga Mat [6] ($20). It serves as my station for meditation, too.
Yogi Tea Ginger Tea Variety Pack
My digestion isn't always at its best when I have PMS [7], so I always keep my kitchen stocked with tea to help relieve some of the discomfort. I love the Lemon Ginger tea in the Yogi Tea Ginger Tea Variety Pack [8] ($15).
YETI Rambler
Keeping a water bottle, like the YETI Rambler [9] ($50), filled up and on hand has been helping me to drink more water throughout the day. My PMS motivation? Staying properly hydrated can help with relieving issues like bloating [10].
West Elm Soft Corded Throw
Cosying up on the couch with a cosy blanket, like the West Elm Soft Corded Throw [11] ($60), while watching never-ending reruns is my favourite PMS activity, if I'm being honest.
NutriBullet NBR-0601 Nutrient Extractor
Smoothies are an easy way for me to consume some foods, like nut butters and avocados [12], that are known to help alleviate menstrual cramps. I've come to love my NutriBullet NBR-0601 Nutrient Extractor [13] ($55) because it blends everything up in seconds and is so easy to clean.
Brooklyn Candle Studio Sunday Morning Minimalist Candle
Whether I'm curling up with a heating pad and a book or drawing a hot bath to help soothe my cramps, I always try to light a therapeutic-smelling candle to set a more relaxing mood. I've been eyeing the Brooklyn Candle Studio Sunday Morning Minimalist Candle [14] ($28), which holds notes of amber, jasmine, gardenia, and pear.
Asutra Pain Relieving Magnesium Oil Spray
When my joints and lower back are achy, I lean on muscle-soothing topicals for fast relief. The Asutra Pain Relieving Magnesium Oil Spray [15] ($15) is one of them.