Ok, so here is something I’ve been thinking as I sit here with PMS wanting to kill (at worst) or leave (at best) my partner, Tom*.

Ayurveda and yoga philosophy teach us that we’re closer to our feminine self, to our feminine Shakti energy, in the days leading up to our bleed.

Speaking from my own experience, I think most of the frustrations that I feel at this time of the month are arguably justifiable, but as result of things that I would generally let go at other stages of my cycle. When I am pre-menstrual, I am less able to mask and internalise the frustration and anger I am feeling.

So, what if these emotions that we feel (usually towards our partners or those close to us) at this time, is actually a manifestation of our frustration and anger at being in a female body and living in a patriarchal world?

What if it is the case that, at this time of the month, our awareness of these feelings are heightened, and our connection to the feminine energy is stronger so we are able to feel more deeply the injustices that we experience everyday as a result of this societal structure?

So basically, I think I’m saying that if we dismantle the patriarchy, maybe PMS wouldn’t exist? Or maybe it would manifest in a different way?

Would love to hear if this resonates with you, or if you have experienced living in a truly matriarchal society and whether PMS manifests in the same way for you.

*I am exaggerating here for comedic effect – Tom is actually a loving and supportive partner and I am very lucky to have him!