Take Back PMS With These 7 Period-Pampering Tips

Your period app just sent you a notification: It’s. Coming. You double-check your Motrin stash and start steeling yourself to get through an already exhausting workweek — all while cramping and bleeding. But here’s the thing: What if you transformed that PMS dread into menstrual mindfulness?

According to Erica Chidi Cohen, doula, period coach and co-founder of Loom, “PMS” is a loaded term, weighed down with female oppression and the view of the period as some kind of disease state. Cohen suggests adopting the term “luteal” in its place, a minor shift that takes back the power. Being “luteal” means that you’re in the stage post-ovulation but pre-menstruation, when your hormones surge and you might feel a little on edge, anxious, tired, and tender. It’s not a stage we need to fix or ignore — in fact, it’s time to reclaim those days for resting. Sure, it’d be incredible if we could all take off work and clear our calendars during our luteal phase. But until that dream becomes reality, you have to blaze your own path. Here’s where self-care can help you cope.

1. Get into a ritual. Gritting your teeth through another cycle just contributes to more stress — what you actually need to be doing is carving out time for self-care. “Menstruation is an incredible opportunity to get in touch with our bodies and our well-being,” shares Kelsey Haywood Lucas, a beauty and wellness editor who writes about period empowerment. If you’re constantly caught up in your crazy-busy life, what better time to pause and check in with yourself then when you’re on your period? “Creating a routine is essential,” shares Haywood Lucas. “For me, it’s all about pampering: drawing a bath, massaging my stomach with oil, putting on a really comfortable robe, watching a movie with my phone far away so I’m not checking work emails, going to bed early. For others, it might mean cooking a really nutritious meal or whipping up a batch of dark chocolate brownies that’ll totally satisfy a craving (and, hey, offer some antioxidants too).”

2. Eat warming, nourishing foods. Don’t get us wrong: We live for chocolate, but roasted root vegetables, grounding grains, and sautéed greens are like a bear hug for your hormones. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, they’ll keep your digestion and blood sugar from going haywire and help cut down on bloat too, unlike processed and packaged foods. And note that while raw fruits and veggies are super hydrating, they can actually take more energy for your body to break down… they’re also not as soothing to your system as their cooked counterparts. Instead, try sipping on bone broths and soups, which are extra hydrating, nutrient-rich, and super easy to absorb.

3. Commune with the moon. The moon is strongly associated with feminine energy — women’s cycles correlate to the moon’s wax/wane pattern, occurring approximately every 28 days. Knowing how yours syncs up with the lunar timeline is a powerful way to be aware of your hormonal shifts and channel your femininity. If you haven’t yet started tracking your menstrual cycle, let this be the sign you’ve been waiting for: Not only will tracking give you a glimpse into your period health, it’s also a good way to track your overall physical and emotional well-being too. Then, start to notice your flow: Charting your menstruation alongside the moon cycles makes you more mindful of whether you’re in harmony with the universe, in a broader sense. Note that depending on your cycle length, not everyone will sync up with the traditional concept of ovulating with the full moon and menstruating with the new moon (and there’s no need to “hack” your cycle to get there) but it’s still fascinating, however you align.

4. Build up your minerals. You’re literally losing blood every day of your period, which is why it’s so important to boost your iron stores during your cycle. You’ll want to maximize your magnesium intake, which can seriously help cut down on cramps. Zinc is also crucial for iron formation and is often lacking in our Western diets. To get mineral-rich, snack on seaweed like nori, cook with kombu or kelp; add a sprinkle of flax, sesame and/or pumpkin seeds to oatmeal, salads, and grain bowls; and nosh on nuts, lentils, lean animal protein, and grass-fed red meat to get your fill.

5. Free-bleed during a workout. What if you could sail through your yoga class or gym session without having to worry about slipping tampons or shifting pads? Enter free-bleeding, which is exactly what it sounds like: the act of forgoing a menstrual product altogether. Supporters of the free-bleed movement are working to normalize period blood and empower people across the globe to recognize that periods are a healthy part of being a human woman. “Whether you want to run a marathon with blood running down your leg or just want to be able to wear fewer tampons during your period, there are several great undergarment options that allow women to experiment with free-bleeding while still feeling comfortable and confident,” says Haywood Lucas. She recommends Thinx Hi-Waist Panties ($38), which can hold up to two tampons’ worth of blood — and won’t stain your fave yoga pants.

6. Roll away pain. Your hot water bottle doesn’t stand a chance compared to the newest cramp-fighters hitting the market. “New feminine wellness start-ups aren’t just making organic tampons and pads — they’re also offering products like essential oil roller blends that are helping menstruation take up more space in our lives and making it a more enjoyable experience,” says Haywood Lucas. “Having that little rollerball sitting on your vanity tells you that it’s important to treat yourself extra gently during this time.” Shea Brand’s roller formula packs in the CBD ($55) for potent pain-killing: Cannabinoids can help relax the smooth muscles in the uterus that contract and tense up during period cramps.

7. Bliss out. Your menstrual cycle is highly sensitive to stress (thanks, hormones), which means it’s important to try to minimize the mayhem. Ever notice how your cramps and cravings get worse when your life/work balance is out of whack? “It’s about listening to your body and tapping into what it needs,” says Haywood Lucas. Try some gentle stretching or deep breathing if you’re craving something slow and ritualistic, a high-impact workout or a really good cry if you need a release.

RELATED: No, You Don’t Need to “Take a Break” from the Birth Control Pill

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Only two states in the United States don't observe daylight saving time, observing standard time year-round: Arizona and Hawaii. After all, they argue, these states already get plenty of sun. The other 48 states – AKA the rest of us – will spring forward our clocks by one hour on Sunday, March 9, at least for now. It's been reported that it's on the table for abolishing. While it's my favorite time of year (who doesn't love the longer days?), it comes with some not so good health news. Let's get into what you can expect this daylight saving time!

Here are 12 wacky facts you may not know about daylight saving time.

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1. Most of us are saying it wrong.

The correct term is actually "daylight saving time" — singular, not plural. Despite common usage, "saving" is used as an adjective describing the act of conserving daylight, not a plural noun.

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2. The time change has been linked to more hospital visits.

The American Heart Association found that the time change showed an increase in cases of heart attack and stroke. A scientific study found a rise in cases of Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a condition that resulted in irregular heartbeats with symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and fatigue. The increase was more prevalent among women and occurred only during the spring daylight saving time shift, not with the fall clock change.

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3. There are more car accidents during this time.

Losing an hour of sleep can also impact your road safety. A study found that the spring daylight saving time transition increases the risk of fatal traffic accidents in the U.S. by 6 percent.

Andrea Piacquadio

4. DST can increase your cortisol and stress levels.

Losing sleep and disrupting your body’s natural rhythm can do more than just leave you feeling groggy — it can actually spike your cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. Research shows that sleep deprivation and circadian misalignment can trigger an increase in cortisol, along with inflammatory markers and cytokine imbalances. Since cortisol and inflammatory proteins are released in response to stress, chronic elevations could contribute to long-term health issues.

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5. We're at higher risk of depression.

Many people report mood disturbances during this time, but for those with bipolar disorder, the effects can be particularly destabilizing. For instance, a 2020 study found that the change impacts mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. An Australian study revealed a significant increase in male suicide rates in the weeks following the start of daylight saving time, compared to both the weeks after the return to standard time and the rest of the year.

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6. Benjamin Franklin first suggested the concept.

He didn’t technically invent daylight saving time (as some have reported), but he did conceive the idea a century before it was credited to George Vernon Hudson, a New Zealand artist who formally proposed it in an 1895 paper. Benjamin Franklin observed that if people in France adjusted their schedules to sleep when it was dark and wake with the sunrise, they could save hundreds of francs on candles — making artificial lighting less necessary.

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7. There's already buzz to make DST permanent.

The Sunshine Protection Act is a proposed U.S. law aiming to make daylight saving time permanent, eliminating the need to change clocks twice a year.

Anna Shvets

8. Farmers actually fought against it.

Contrary to popular belief, farmers have never supported daylight saving time. In fact, they opposed its implementation and, in 1919, an agricultural lobby even pushed for its repeal.

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9. We may actually consume more energy because of it.

While many believe daylight saving time conserves energy, research suggests it may actually do the opposite. A University of California-Santa Barbara study indicated that daylight saving time might increase consumption. A 2017 study in the International Association for Energy Economics Journal further supports this idea, noting that longer daylight hours can lead to more air conditioning in summer and heating in cooler months.

Federico Respini

10. Daylight saving time was extended in 2007.

First started in Germany, the U.S. adopted daylight saving time in 1918 and standardized it across the country with the passage of the 1966 Uniform Time Act, which gave the federal government oversight over the time change. It originally called for the last Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October. President George W. Bush’s Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended it from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, starting in 2007.

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11. About 70 countries observe daylight saving time.

Countries like Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and those in the European Union observe daylight saving time either nationwide or in select regions. Meanwhile, most African and Asian nations — including India, China, and Japan — opt out of the time change entirely.

Kaylah Matthews

12. You can beat the clock.

Despite the health risks and safety concerns of daylight saving time, you can take steps to combat fatigue and adjust within a week. Here are B+C's 5 Best Ways to Beat Daylight Saving Time Fatigue.

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Cozy outfits don’t have to be unflattering, and these 10 plus-sizelounge sets from Amazon totally prove it! Plus, you can snag each one without breaking the budget – yet they all look super luxe. From buttery-soft fabrics to effortlessly chic designs, these sets are perfect for everything from lazy weekend hangs to WFH days. If you're looking for plus-size loungewear that feels just as good as it looks, these picks definitely deserve a spot in your wardrobe.

Scroll on for the 10 cutest and coziest plus-size lounge sets you can shop on Amazon!

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In'voland Plus Size Linen Shorts Set

Breezy and oh-so easy, this linen set works great for more put-together and laze-around-at-home moments alike.

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Beautife Plus Size Striped Knit Lounge Set

You're gonna want to live in this soft knit set 24/7. The stripes totally kick it up a notch!

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Oyoangle Plus Size Floral Sleepwear Lounge Set

For more of a pajama vibe, this plus size lounge set comes complete with plenty of frills and florals. You could easily style the top with comfy jeans and sandals for an easy spring 'fit, too!

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Tiyomoi Button Down Textured Top Set

This set is cut from some insanely soft and breathable fabric to keep you feeling cool. The textured, pleated look makes it look more polished, so you can step out with the utmost confidence!

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Ekouaer Knit Sweater Lounge Set

Your next WFH session is calling! The high-quality knitted fabric this 2-piece set is made of is said to be "skin-friendly," so you won't feel irritated wearing it all day long.

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Pinsv Short Sleeve Top & Flare Pants Lounge Set

Easy to put on and even easier to wear during long days, this lounge set is crafted using a pleasantly soft material that moves with you – not against you. It also comes in so many different colors to match your personal style!

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Zhuhouse Plus Size Pajama Lounge Set

This butter yellow color is undeniably trendy at the moment, so you'll look effortlessly stylish when you slip it on. Whether it's for a movie night at home or a sleepover with your bestie, you'll feel put-together and so cute! Complete the look with your fave slippers, and voila!

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Ritera Plus Size Pullover Set

The ribbed knit on this plus size lounge set gives it that luxe vibe you're looking for. Better yet, the calm cashmere color is easy to wear with any and every accessory, from loafers to denim jackets when it's chilly out.

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Eytino Plus Size Pullover Top & Short Set

The varied stripes on this easy-wearing set will definitely have heads turning your way – it's an unexpected (and super stylish) departure from your traditional lounge set designs.

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Beautife Plus Size Striped Casual Lounge Set

Soft, breathable, and lightweight, this lounge set will feel like a second skin when you wear it. The stripes feel oh-so elevated for such an affordable lounge set!

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Hair trends come and go, but some of them should remain frozen in time forever. It's not that we think you'll be making a major faux pas, but we want to see you look your best! There are so many cute hairstyles that will suit your face much better than a mullet would, but that's not the only trend you should bury in the sands of time! Here are the outdated hairstyles what you should avoid at home, at the salon, and really anywhere right now.

Scroll to see the 8 outdated hairstyles it's officially time to retire for good!

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1. Deep Side Parts

Coming in at #1 on our "outdated" list are deep side parts. They used to something we admired on everyone from Amy Winehouse to Katy Perry, but now they remind us of the questionable choices we made in our early 20s.

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2. Space Buns

Princess Leia may look great wearing her space buns in the Star Wars franchise, but we think you shouldn't bring them into 2025. The last time someone on our team wore them was between 2018 or 2019, so that should say a lot.

We don't say this often, but let's wear hairstyles that don't revert us back to our grade school days.

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3. Side Braid

Unless you're trying to relive your childhood days or want to mimic Blake Lively's character in It Ends With Us, this outdated hairstyle shouldn't be on your list of favorite looks to wear. There's other braided styles you can wear that are way more stylish anyway!

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4. Super Visible Highlights

Whether you're getting microlinks or a sew-in, wearing super visible highlights in 2025 is truly outdated. It's one thing to switch up your style, but it's another to let the world know how much you love a good contrast by letting your hair scream it from the mountaintops.

Keep your color of choice seamless this year if you decide to get a color service.

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5. '60s Up-Do

There's a time and place for everything, including updos that resemble what was popular during the '60s. If you must wear this style, go for a more modern take that doesn't feel as stiff. You might want to update your bangs too.

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6. Wand Curls

When's the last time you heard someone mention this once popular style? Chances are you haven't because it's a reminder of how long it took to achieve overly done curls. Depending on the size you wanted, you could spend anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour on this style. Oh, and it was mandatory to wear the accompanying glove that came with the 'wand' or else you risked burning your fingers!

No thank you!

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7. Barbie Bleach

Remember when it was a cardinal sin to show up to the beach without "effortlessly wavy" hair? It seems more people are moving away from that and embracing 'messy' buns and the beauty of textured hair. It's one thing if you hair naturally looks like this, but it's another if you try to make your hair conform to this style just because it's "on trend."

Newsflash: you don't have to force your hair to do something it doesn't want to! (And not everyone has to look like Serena van der Woodsen!)

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8. Millennial Pouf

Oof, how can we forget the millennial pouf? This was one of our go-to hairstyles that we swore we'd always wear. Little did we know how much we'd avoid it once we graduated from college.

It's not the most annoying style, but we're throwing this one in the "outdated" bag so we can't even pretend we're going to start wearing it again.

Want to know what else is "outdated?" Revisit the nail trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025!

With streamers like Netflix and Max adding brand new titles every month, we're always in for an entertaining binge watch. And thanks to Paramount+, we have more than a few TV shows to welcome spring. Whether you're obsessed with Taylor Sheridan shows or you love true crime-inspired drama, here are some of the best series to watch on Paramount+ this month.

The 8 best TV shows to watch on Paramount+ in March 2025.

1. Happy Face — Stream on Paramount+ March 20, 2025

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This new TV show follows Melissa, who comes face-to-face with her father (the infamous Happy Face Killer) after decades of separation when she realizes an innocent man might pay for her dad's crimes.

Happy Face premieres March 20 and stars Annaleigh Ashford, Dennis Quaid, James Wolk, Tamera Tomakili, Khiyla Aynne, and Benjamin Mackey.

2. The Amazing Race season 37 — Stream on Paramount+ on Wednesdays

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14 teams compete in this season of the hit adventure reality show, stopping in Osaka, Japan to complete a 12,000 year old tradition and in Strasbourg, France to explore its medieval history. And this year, they're in for both classic games and new challenges.

The Amazing Race season 37 is hosted by Phil Keoghan.

3. Yellowjackets season 3 — Stream on Paramount+ on Fridays

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As winter ends, the teens realize their trust in one another has fractured — while the present-day Yellowjackets have to face secrets that threaten everything.

Yellowjackets season 3 stars Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, Tawny Cypress, Lauren Ambrose, Sophie Nélisse, Courtney Eaton, Kevin Alves, Sophie Thatcher, Samantha Hanratty, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Liv Hewson, Steven Krueger, Warren Kole, Sarah Desjardins, Simone Kessell, Elijah Wood, Joel McHale, and Hilary Swank.

4. 1923 Season 2 — Stream on Paramount+ on Sundays

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The Duttons are fighting for their survival in 1923 season 2 as they protect the Yellowstone ranch — and each other. I'm just waiting for the day Alex and Spencer finally reunite!

1923 stars Julia Schlaepfer, Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, Brandon Sklenar, Darren Mann, Michelle Randolph, Jerome Flynn, Aminah Nieves, and Isabel May.

5. 1883 — Stream on Paramount+

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Dive into the Taylor Sheridan universe with this Yellowstone prequel that follows the Dutton family as they move their entire lives across the United States.

1883 stars Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Sam Elliott, Isabel May, LaMonica Garrett, Marc Rissmann, Audie Rick, Eric Nelsen, and James Landry Hébert.

6. Sin City Gigolo: A Murder in Las Vegas — Stream on Paramount+

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After a star from 2010s' reality show Gigolos was convicted of murder in 2020, this docuseries examines the line between fame, crime, and reality.

Sin City Gigolo follows the story of Ash Armand and the other Las Vegas gigolos.

7. School Spirits — Stream on Paramount+

Katie Yu/Paramount+

The internet can't get enough of this Paramount+ show, and considering the season 2 finale just dropped, there's never been a better time to start watching. The series follows Maddie, who wakes up in purgatory and sets out to reclaim her life and reunite the spectral and living worlds.

School Spirits stars Peyton List, Kristian Ventura, Spencer MacPherson, Kiara Pichardo, Sarah Yarkin, Nick Pugliese, Rainbow Wedell, Josh Zuckerman, and Milo Manheim.

8. Avatar: The Last Airbender — Stream on Paramount+

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This nostalgic series — which follows the long-lost Avatar on his journey to master all four elements and save the world — is the perfect Paramount+ show to binge watch this weekend.

Avatar: The Last Airbender stars Dante Basco, Dee Bradley Baker, Jack De Sena, Jessie Flower, Mae Whitman, and Zach Tyler.

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If you keep seeing the same 3- or 4-number sequences everywhere – on clocks, receipts, or license plates – you might be noticing what people refer to as ‘angel numbers.’ These repeating digits are believed to carry spiritual messages that typically offer guidance, reassurance, or simply a little cosmic nudge in the right direction – just like astrology!

Whether you think it's pure coincidence or a sign from the universe, angel numbers have a fascinating way of showing up just when you need them the most.

Read on for everything you need to know about angel numbers — including their powerful meaning!

What are angel numbers?

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Angel numbers are sequences of numbers that are commonly believed to carry spiritual messages from angels, divine beings, or the universe. You can often spot angel numbers on clocks, license plates, signs, or even dreams. Each angel number sequence is thought to have a specific meaning behind it, depending on the interpretation.

What are examples of angel numbers?

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Common examples of angel numbers include sequences like 111, 333, 444, and so on.

What are the common angel numbers and their meanings?

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  • 111: This sequence can signify new beginnings or assist in manifestation.
  • 222: This angel number can represent balance and harmony, as well as encourage you to trust the process.
  • 333: Often symbolizes divine protection, guidance, and encouragement from your angels – or whatever higher power you believe in.
  • 444: This angel number sequence can be a sign of stability, reassurance, and that your angels and the universe are supporting you in your endeavors.
  • 555: Indicates that major life changes and transformations are coming.
  • 666: This number serves as a reminder to focus on your inner balance, thoughts, and personal growth (it’s not always a negative number).
  • 777: Represents spiritual enlightenment, luck, and divine wisdom.
  • 888: This can be a sign of financial abundance, success, and karmic rewards. Score!
  • 999: Symbolizes the completion of a chapter and readiness for a new beginning.
  • 1111: This one can be seen as a powerful manifestation number signaling alignment with your purpose and dreams.

Why should I pay attention to angel numbers?

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Paying attention to angel numbers can be extra meaningful if you believe in spiritual guidance or personal growth. They can serve as gentle reminders to trust your intuition when making big decisions, meeting new people, or starting a new chapter in your life.

Even if you don’t whole-heartedly believe in spiritual signs, noticing patterns in things like angel numbers can help you stay present and reflect on where you are in life!

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