Do You Track Your Menstrual Cycle? And a Quick Note on Why You Should.

Your menstrual cycle is unique to you. We may all experience the same 4 phases of a menstrual cycle but each of our experiences of those phases is our own. This is why it’s important and helpful to track your cycle and the way you feel in each phase. This way you can eat, play, love, exercise, plan, and live more in alignment with your natural energy cycles. You can give of yourself more authentically and wholeheartedly. You can know when your body is asking for a slower pace and more rest and when you are more equipped to challenge yourself. When we honour our cycles rather than go against them pms symptoms can lessen.

This is an art and a continuing relationship with oneself. It requires consistent nurturance. Our cycles can also fluctuate with the changing seasons. Take notice of your cycle. Also take notice of the moon. My favorite period tracking app is stardust. If you don’t track your cycle, why not start now?

Each phase of our cycle is so different. Our energy, appetite, digestion, and needs change with each week. Being aware of this can help you honour rest when you need to and take advantage of natural high energy.

PRO TIP: Schedule important events during ovulation. Estrogen is highest at this time so the world naturally seems more rosy. Confidence and energy are higher.
DO NOT schedule a week or so before your period if you have the choice.

Menstruation: This is day 1 of your cycle. Every woman’s menstruation phase is quite unique. It typically can last 2 to 7 days with a whole range of flow from light to heavy, different intensity and duration of cramps, and different energy levels. This is generally a good time to rest, release, and go inward. Estrogen and energy begin to increase towards the end of this phase. Get to know your flow and if it’s regular or fluctuating. The best way to do this is to track, take notes, and pay attention.

Follicular: This is when your estrogen is rising and energy is increasing. Typically a feel-good time in the cycle.

Ovulation: Libido and energy are peak right now. This is when you can get pregnant, and also in the few days leading up to ovulation.

Luteal: The body is in need of more rest at this time and may feel more sensitive (emotionally and physically) as estrogen decreases and progesterone rises. Allow yourself to slow down, rest, go within.