Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle typically spans around 28 days, though it can vary for each individual.

It consists of four main phases:

Menstruation
Follicular
Ovulation
Luteal

Understanding the duration and characteristics of each phase empowers us to live in harmony with our bodies' natural rhythms.

I used to think periods were just about bleeding for a week each month. But over time, I began noticing changes in my mood that followed a pattern.

I became more aware of the ups and downs of hormones throughout the month, not just during the period. This new understanding helped me connect with my body's natural cycle, allowing me to reach my full potential and learn from the wisdom of the entire cycle.

I'm grateful you're here with me today, exploring this journey of understanding and harmonizing with our bodies. It's been transformative for me over the past few years.

Essentially, throughout the month, our levels of progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone are in flux, influencing our moods, energy, and cravings. By practicing specific habits and eating strategically, we can better handle and move through these hormonal changes with more comfort and poise.

Menstruation (Winter/Inner Queen)

Duration: 3-7 days

Menstruation, often referred to as the winter season, marks the shedding of the uterine lining.

During this phase, our estrogen levels hit an all-time low so be sure you prioritize rest and self-care.

They say our aura expands threefold, making us ultra-sensitive to the vibes around us. It feels as though our intuition is exceptionally heightened.

Taking the time to do some self-reflection. I've had some deep introspective moments of clarity while revisiting past experiences and relationships.

Your body's iron levels are starting to decrease, so it's normal to experience some fogginess or fatigue.

If you wanna feel amazing, load up on some iron-rich foods like lentils, black beans, tofu, and leafy greens. They can really give you a vitality boost!

Magnesium-packed foods like kale, beets, mushrooms, and veggies – they're like a warm hug for your insides, easing PMS and cramps like magic.

And let's not forget about hydration! Drink plenty of water to keep your body happy and healthy.

Wanna go the extra mile? Sprinkle some pumpkin or flax seeds into your meals for an added kick. Seriously, just a tablespoon a day can make a world of difference.

Follicular Phase (Spring/Maiden)

Duration: 7-10 days

The follicular phase, often referred to as the spring season, follows menstruation. The body starts preparing for a potential pregnancy.

Think of it as your "maiden" phase, where you're blossoming like a goddess.

During this time, estrogen levels are on the rise. Your energy levels might soar, and you'll find yourself more creative, open to new adventures, and socializing.

This is the best time to make those dreaded dentist appointments because it might not feel as bad this week compared to others in your cycle.

If you've been putting off workouts, now's your moment! Your body is primed for high-intensity exercises like interval training or weightlifting.

You’re surge of confidence and energy may be attributed to your heightened mental agility, which is primed for addressing various tasks and challenges. This opportune moment presents an ideal setting for formulating plans, generating innovative concepts, and actualizing your creative aspirations.

Plus, you might notice you're not as hungry as usual, thanks to estrogen's subtle appetite-suppressing effect. So, focus on nourishing your body with iron-rich foods like broccoli sprouts, kimchi, and healthy fats to keep your energy up.

Ovulation (Summer/Mother)

Duration: 2-4 days

The ovulation phase, often referred to as the summer season, occurs around the midpoint of the menstrual cycle.

This is when an egg is released from one of the ovaries. This is the most fertile time of the cycle, as the egg can be fertilized by sperm.

Don’t know when you're ovulating? Look out for transparent, stretchy discharge or mucus that looks like Saran wrap when checking down there. Your body uses these signs to let you know that ovulation is coming soon.

It's a sweet spot that hangs around for about two to four days.

During this time estrogen is peaking, and testosterone is riding high. Get ready to feel a bit more impulsive, daring, and competitive. Oh, and let's not forget, your libido is hitting the roof!

When you're feeling that surge of energy and passion, it's not just your hormones playing tricks on you. It's actually a fantastic opportunity to harness that power and focus it into something meaningful.

This is the best time to manifest your dreams and be your most social.

Whether it's immersing yourself in exciting projects, sharing your passions with others, or fully embracing your sensual side – go for it! If you're feeling a little seductive, that's completely normal. It's not about anyone else; it's about embracing and enjoying the wonderful energy flowing through you.

Now, let's talk munchies. Load up on high-fiber foods, leafy greens, magnesium-rich goodies, and hey, who doesn't love a bit of dark chocolate? B vitamins, cruciferous veggies, whole grains, sesame, and sunflower seeds are also on the menu. Basically, treat your body right during this time, and it'll thank you.

Luteal Phase (Autumn/Enchantress)

Duration: 10-14 days

The Luteal phase, often referred to as the autumn season, precedes menstruation and is marked by hormonal fluctuations.

During this time progesterone rises, preparing the body for potential pregnancy. After an egg is released from the ovary, the remaining follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. If the egg isn't fertilized, hormone levels drop, leading to the start of the menstrual period.

This phase invites reflection and preparation as energy levels may fluctuate.

This phase hangs around for roughly 10 to 14 days. In the first half, estrogen takes a dip, bringing on PMS-like symptoms. But no worries, it bounces back up, accompanied by rising progesterone, making you a bit more sensitive and emotional.

During this time, you might find yourself craving comfort foods high in fat and calories. Your appetite goes into overdrive, so fasting or skipping meals might not be the best move.

Progesterone can also slow down digestion, leading to constipation, but it's just your body trying to absorb more nutrients in case of a potential pregnancy. It might cause temporary bloating due to water retention.

It's not the best time for intense workouts; go for low-impact exercises and cardio instead. On the bright side, your exercise routine becomes more efficient, with your body burning up to 30 percent more fat, thanks to the estrogen-progesterone combo.

To sail through this phase smoothly, nourish your body with foods rich in Omega-3s and B vitamins to support emotional well-being. Load up on sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, iron, zinc, complex carbs, healthy fats, leafy greens, magnesium, and grounding foods like sweet potatoes and pumpkins.

Final Thoughts

What are your thoughts about living in tune with your body's natural rhythm?

Becoming more in tune with the natural ups and downs of your menstrual cycle can lead to some incredible benefits.

By living in harmony with your cycle, you may notice increased feelings of balance and productivity. This can have a positive impact on your overall well-being, leaving you feeling more aligned with yourself and ready to take on the world!

Share your thoughts with us in the comments below and let's build a wonderful community of women supporting each other!

Your experiences and insights can be so inspiring for others who are looking to embrace their menstrual cycles too. Let's uplift and empower each other as we learn to cycle sync our bodies.

Take care,

-Emilia ♡