Isn’t it incredible how our bodies work? I mean, sure, it can be confusing sometimes, but you know what? When we really tune into our bodies and understand their natural ebbs and flows, we can start working with it instead of against it.
In this blog, I’m sharing tips on the 4 cycle stages and how you can embrace each. Let’s go!
Blog Disclaimer: This is a reflection of my personal own study, knowledge and experience. It is not meant to invalidate yours, and is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician.
Menstrual Cycle Days & How To Embrace Each
Did you know that your monthly cycle has 4 phases? Ladies, it’s high time we celebrated the gift of understanding our bodies and appreciating the amazing changes we undergo each month. I don’t know about you, but it took me a while to understand the ins and outs of my own menstrual cycle. Yeah, it can be a pain (literally), but the truth is, when we’re in tune with our bodies, it’s actually kind of empowering.
01. Menstrual Phase
A cycle starts the first day of your period and ends the day before you start bleeding again.Â
Your period is your natural renewal time. Your body does want to slow down. If you can relax a bit more when you’re bleeding (depending on your routine and schedule) you may find it less of a struggle and even get creative ideas.
What to expect:
reflective · intuitive · inward · focus for creativity
No energy, feeling bloated, and cramps (for some of us).
How to embrace your menstrual phase:
This is a time for rest and restoration. Set yourself up with plenty of warm drinks, healthy snacks, and cozy corners to curl up in. Make sure you have enough sleep and relax as much as possible.
Self-care is the name of the game, and warmth is your friend. A heating pad or a hot water bottle can do wonders for cramps.
Some ideas could be:
- Prioritize self-care and listen to your body.
- Using a heating pads or gentle massages to for ease cramps.
- Drink plenty of water and nourish my body with healthy foods.
- If you need rest, take it without guilt!
02. Follicular Phase
The follicular phase is the phase before ovulation. This is your body’s time to get ready for ovulation; follicles containing eggs will emit estrogen. This hormone estrogen stimulates the production of cervical fluid (which helps sperm safely on their journey to the egg) and starts signaling to your body to build your uterine lining with blood in preparation for a fertilized egg to implant. This is the riskiest time for an unintended pregnancy after your period and before you ovulate.Â
What to expect:
active · dynamic · clarity
Higher energy levels, improved focus, and concentration. You’ll have an easier time making decisions, and your creativity is likely to be at its peak.
How to embrace your follicular phase:
This is a great time for tackling those tasks that require extra focus, like studying and working on projects. Make sure you rest when necessary and take breaks.This phase is the perfect time to be productive and make strides in our personal and professional lives. Enjoy this time of rejuvenation and growth; you deserve it!
Some ideas could be:
- Focus on goal-setting and project planning to make the most of this phase.Â
- Tap into your creativity. Whether it’s painting, writing, or dancing, let your inner artist shine! I’ve been into bullet journaling lately, and it’s been so therapeutic.
- Use this energy boost to set new goals, plan for the month, and tackle tasks on my to-do list.
- Exercise is also great during this time, as it helps to balance out hormones and increases energy levels.
Menstrual Cycle Related Articles
Benefits of embracing your natural cycle
Making self care a priority during your period
How to embrace your natural cycle and prevent pregnancy
03. Ovulation Phase
Ovulation is the releasing of an egg from the ovary to the fallopian tube where it is ready and available to be fertilized by sperm. Just a friendly reminder: if you’re trying to conceive, now’s the time to try! This is a great oWomen can only ovulate once per cycle, but we can release 2 eggs! An egg will only live for 12 – 24 hours. If there is no sperm present during that time, the egg will simply dissolve. We often feel extra fabulous and confident during this time, too.
What to expect:
outgoing · expressive · outward focus for creativity
Increased libido and energy, improved communication, and a heightened sense of well-being. You may even have vivid dreams!Â
How to embrace your ovulation phase:
Channel your confidence into new challenges, leadership roles, or speaking your mind. You got this, girl! Take this opportunity to go out with friends, take risks, and celebrate. Dress up and celebrate your body. Seriously, own your amazingness! Take advantage of increased focus and concentration by tackling tasks that require extra brainpower. If you’re trying to conceive, a friendly reminder that now’s the time!Â
Some ideas could be:
- Experiment with new hairstyles and makeup for a boost of confidence.
- Get plenty of sleep so that I’m energized during the day. Exercise is also great during this time, as it boosts endorphins, making us happier.
- Take advantage of increased focus and concentration by tackling tasks that require extra brainpower.
- Own your confidence and let it radiate in all you do!
04. Luteal Phase
The luteal phase comes after ovulation. Progesterone is released after ovulation whether or not you conceive, by the follicle that contains the egg, now called the corpus luteum. It warms your temperature, dries up cervical fluid (that isn’t needed anymore) and helps your uterine lining become spongy for pregnancy. The phase lasts until the day before your next period.
What to expect:
creative ideas · problem solving · assertive
Energy levels are starting to dip, and we might feel mood swings. Lower energy levels, increased fatigue, irritability, and emotional sensitivity.
How to embrace your luteal phase:
Be gentle with yourself! Prioritize rest and self-care during this time. Take as many breaks as you need. If a task that requires focus is too overwhelming, put it off for later when your mind is a bit clearer. Manage stress by breaking tasks into smaller steps and delegating when you can. Try using a productivity app to keep things organized.
Some ideas could be:
- Express your emotions: write in your journal, talk to someone close, or practice yoga.
- Limit caffeine and sugar intake, as they can worsen PMS symptoms.
- Eat nourishing meals that give you energy and help balance hormones.
Support Your Body All Month Long
In addition to embracing each phase, there are a few things that have genuinely helped me keep my menstrual cycle days in check:
- Staying active throughout the month. Whether it’s yoga, running, or dancing, moving your body can do wonders.
- Establishing a regular sleep schedule. It might sound simple, but getting quality sleep can significantly impact your cycle.
- Connecting with others who share your experience. Support is vital, so reach out to your friends and family, or join online forums where you can share your thoughts and feelings.
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By understanding and embracing the natural rhythm of our menstrual cycles, we can harness our inner power and thrive throughout our cycle, regadless of the phase we’re in. Let’s celebrate our bodies, tune in to our needs, and support each other on this incredible journey! Remember, you’re strong, you’re amazing, and you’ve got this!Â
Jess is a designer, writer and womens wellness advocate. She believes that each of us have our own unique experiences and stories to share to educate and uplift one another.
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