Taoism suggests that you live in accordance with nature, this includes a having balanced diet, living in a proper environment, going to bed with the stars and getting up with the sun. Lifestyle changes can help prevent premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

During ovulation, the kidney's tian gui and essence have reached their maximum; thereafter, these materials begin to act as fuel to promote the uterus, Conception Vessel and Throughfare Vessel to be ready for menses.

In order to adapt to bodily changes in the premenstrual period, the liver and kidneys are relatively hyper-functioning, while the blood and qi (vital energy) flows are active. TCM regards this is as a phase for the growing of the body's yang (functional aspects) and the retarding of the yin (physical forms).

General management in the premenstrual period is to protect and assist the body's yang aspects, but one should not neglect the yin aspects as it ensures the supplement for yang.

Our lifestyles should adapt to these changes too. The first thing to do during this period is to maintain a stable mood, try to make yourself calm, avoid anxiety and being overly angry or irritable. A stable mood facilitates the free flow of liver-qi inside the body. Relaxation techniques like qigong decrease physical discomfort and stress.  ( See the chapter on qigong.)

Furthermore, when individuals get up in the morning, they can massage the Bladder Meridian in the lumbar region to assist the elevation of the yang-qi. Rub the hands together, press and massage along the sides of the backbone from the lumbar to the hip region, to and fro for five minutes. This can be done once a day until the arrival of menstruation. Physical movement and exercise are important during this period. Women who exercise experience less anger and depression. Exercise also reduces stress, as qi and blood flows are motivated, there will be better functioning of the organs. The body will then be in a harmonized yang state and thus facilitating the menses to come. Women are encouraged to exercise regularly, 20-45 minutes, 3 times a week.

Massage in the morning assists the elevation of the yang-qi.