How Living in Harmony with the Menstrual Cycle can Improve Your Life

As womxn our bodies thrive on a cycle that regularly fluctuates. Each of us has our own rhythm that is largely dictated by our womb, ovaries, and hormones. Without a solid understanding of our menstrual cycle patterns, we often move unconsciously through these cyclical changes each month. We often ignore emotional and physical signals from our bodies in lieu of charging full speed ahead into our ever demanding, busy lives. In doing so, we miss the opportunity to tune in to the wisdom and wealth of knowledge that our bodies carry and attempt to communicate to us. Learning to live cyclically with your menstrual cycle is a fantastic way to increase personal agency, understanding, and body literacy.

In my experience, it has also unveiled a plethora of self compassion, admiration, and love towards my own body and all the wonderful things it’s capable of. I have found it fascinating to observe the subtle shifts within my body as my cycle ebbs and flows throughout the month. There is no greater act of self care than learning the inner workings of our body in order to support its naturally changing needs.

For an in depth guide on the details of each menstrual phase, click here.

How to live in tune with each phase of your menstrual cycle:

Menstruation Phase (approx. day 1-7)

During menstruation our bodies need to rest and reset. This is a great time to dedicate towards introspection. The body and spirit connection is very strong during this phase and there is so much to uncover, if we are willing to get quiet and listen.

Ways to support menstruation:

• Get as much rest as possible

• Ensure your body is comfortable (ie. use heating pads, drink lots of water)

• Allow your body to free bleed. Avoid using tampons and opt for pads or period underwear

• Support the body with gentle movement. Yin yoga, deep stretching, nature walks are all supportive.

Follicular Phase (approx. Day 1-16)

Once menstruation is over the body starts to produce more estrogen which usually means renewed energy. This is a great time to become more active and plant seeds for work and personal projects you’d like to embark on. The body typically feels more energetic, so it’s an opportunity to do more physically demanding tasks and workouts.

Ways to support the follicular phase:

• Tidy up and organize your space. Create room for new energy and possibilities in the coming month

• Set intentions and make plans for what you desire

• Get involved in community activities. It’s a great time to socialize.

• Increase your physical activity. Dancing, jogging, vinyasa yoga, and any other workout that is fun and energizing!

Ovulation Phase (between Day 10-16)

The ovulation phase only lasts a few days (the egg only survives for 24-48 hours once released). However, this is a potent time that can be very useful and powerful. This is when we are at peak energy, thanks to high estrogen. We’re often feeling more sensual, playful, and full of life. This is a lovely stage to go full throttle into whatever we are passionate about.

Ways to support the ovulation phase:

• Dive into creative projects

• Create art, music, work projects, poetry. Creative energy is abundant during this stage

• Indulge in pleasure! The body and mind are craving pleasure, so set aside time to allow yourself this gift.

• Get physical. Going to the gym, lifting weights, HIIT workouts, are all great!

Luteal Phase (approx. Day 14- 28)

This can be a very intuitive and expressive time if we allow it. This phase is often when symptoms of PMS can arise. Hormones are changing and the physical and emotional bodies can be more sensitive. This is a good time to tune into our true feelings and notice what is and isn’t serving us in all aspects of our lives.

Ways to support the luteal phase:

• Connect with your feelings by journaling, talk therapy, meditation, etc.

• Pamper yourself. Take long baths, buy yourself flowers, eat nourishing foods

• Express your true feelings in healthy ways. Deep conversations, writing letters/emails, expressive art forms are all wonderful.

• Be gentle with your body. Exercise in ways that feel supportive like yoga, pilates, barre, or a light gym workout.

When we have the knowledge and understanding of our bodies' cyclical phases we can live in true harmony with ourselves. This includes showing up, caring, and advocating for our changing needs. For womxn, putting our best self forward and functioning optimally is a byproduct of living in harmony with our cycles. It's a practical tool that we can all use to facilitate better relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and the external environments that we contribute to daily.

With love,

Whitney

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