Mood swings during your period can be quite confusing. One moment you're feeling great, the next, a wave of irritation, sadness, or even anger suddenly washes over you. You know it's "part of the game," but that doesn't make it any less frustrating. But why does this actually happen? And what can you do to help yourself through these moments, in a gentle, natural way?
In this blog, you'll read all about how your mood is connected to your cycle and how scent can support you in a surprisingly effective way.
What exactly are mood swings?
Mood swings are sudden changes in your emotional state. They can go from cheerful to dejected, from calm to tense, without always having a clear reason. Many of us (women) notice that our mood fluctuates the most in the days before or during our period. You're probably familiar with the term PMS (premenstrual syndrome), and mood swings are a common symptom.
But... you're not alone. Over 70% of menstruating women experience mood swings to varying degrees. And while it's biologically "normal," we often don't feel it that way.
What happens hormonally in our bodies?
During our menstrual cycle, our hormone levels fluctuate continuously. Estrogen and progesterone, in particular, play a key role in this. These hormones directly influence serotonin levels, and serotonin is the brain chemical that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.
Just before menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop rapidly. And with that drop, our serotonin levels also drop. This explains why we can be more likely to become depressed, irritable, or tearful during those days.
Fatigue also often plays a role: our bodies are busy preparing for menstruation, and that requires a lot of energy. If you also sleep poorly (due to cramps or restlessness, for example), your emotional resilience is simply lower.
How do mood swings affect your daily life?
The impact of these emotional swings can be significant. You may notice that:
- You become more irritated when confronted with your partner, children or colleagues,
- You suddenly start doubting yourself or seeing things more pessimistically,
- Your need for social contact suddenly changes into a strong need for rest,
- Or you simply don't feel 'well' without knowing why.
Especially when you have a busy life, with work, family, and other commitments, there's little time to truly retreat or give in to your feelings. Yet, that's precisely what your body is asking for: slowing down, gentleness, and rest.
What can you do to ease mood swings?
Fortunately, there are gentle ways to support your body and mind during this phase. No quick fixes, but small daily choices that can help:
1. Eat nutritious and stable
Simple sugars can further increase blood sugar fluctuations (and therefore your mood). Choose whole grains, proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. Magnesium-rich foods (such as bananas, nuts, and dark chocolate) can also be helpful.
2. Move, even if you don't feel like it
A gentle walk, yoga, or even just stretching can help. Exercise improves blood circulation, reduces stress hormones, and provides a natural boost of endorphins.
3. Sleep and rest
This is the foundation of your emotional balance. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid screens in the evening. Give yourself extra rest when your body needs it.
4. Write or talk
Put your feelings into words. Writing or talking to someone helps you gain more control over your emotions and avoid bottling them up.
5. Create a calm environment
A clean, warm place to unwind helps more than you think. And that's where scent comes in...
How scent affects your mood
Everything we smell is directly connected to the limbic system in our brain, the center for emotions, memories, and behavior. That's why a certain scent can affect our mood in seconds.
Certain scents have a calming, comforting, or even uplifting effect. Think lavender for tranquility, citrus for energy, or flowers for balance. You probably know it: that one scent that instantly soothes you or makes you smile.
When you consciously add scent to your daily routine, you can help yourself find more peace, relax more quickly and soothe emotions.
Coming soon: a fragrance especially for your moments of rest
Starting in September, we're launching a fragrance specially designed to support you through inner turmoil and mood swings. A soft, floral scent with a refreshing undertone, perfect for those moments when you just need to catch your breath.
This fragrance is part of our Mood collection and is called Bloom : a scent that invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. This fragrance was specially developed for women and is designed to support hormonal fluctuations.
🎉 Want to be the first to know when Bloom is available?
→ Leave your email address and we'll notify you as soon as the fragrance is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mood Swings During Menstruation
1. How long do mood swings last on average?
They often start in the days before your period and usually disappear once your period starts. For some women, it takes longer.
2. Is there something wrong with me if this bothers me a lot?
No, this is completely normal. But if it significantly impacts your daily life, it's a good idea to discuss it with a doctor or coach.
3. Does scent really work against mood swings?
Scent isn't a miracle cure, but it is a powerful support. It helps calm your nervous system and can help you regulate your emotions.
4. When will the Bloom fragrance be available?
Bloom will be available in our webshop starting in September. You can pre -register now to be notified as soon as it's available online.
💛 Mood swings aren't a weakness, but an invitation to take better care of yourself. With nutrition, rest, exercise, and a little fragrance , you can smooth your cycle and give yourself space.
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