Period Power: A Guide to Cyclical Living

Hey there, period pals! Are you curious to learn about cyclical living? This is honestly such a beautiful way of living with the natural rhythms of our bodies and the world around us. At the heart of this practice lies our menstrual cycle, a powerhouse of wisdom waiting to be tapped into. So, grab your cup of tea, and let's dive into the magic of cyclical living and how it can transform our well-being.

Getting to Know Your Menstrual Cycle:

Ah, the menstrual cycle – the often overlooked indicator of vital health. The frequency with which menstrual cycle troubles are dismissed is exactly why why we're here to unravel its secrets. (Which don’t actually need to be secret!) Your menstrual cycle lasts anywhere from 21 to 35 days and is made up of four distinct phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal. Each phase brings its own set of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual shifts.

Now, the hormones – they’re basically tiny messengers that make up all the parts of our menstrual cycle. As we move through each phase, our hormone levels ebb and flow, influencing how we feel and function. From the low energy of menstruation to the spicy, juicy, liveliness of the follicular phase, the peak energy of ovulation, and the reflective calm of the luteal phase – sometimes it honestly feels like a hormonal rollercoaster ride, am I right? Or Am I right?

So, What is Cyclical Living anyway?

Harmony. Alignment. Being “in sync” with your body. Nourishing the body with your menstrual cycle helps to provide your brain and body with the support and gentleness that it needs at each phase of your menstrual cycle. Different types of food, movement, social interactions, and daily practices may be more or less supportive at different times of your cycle.

And fun fact the brain actually changes physiologically during the cycle too!

I actually wrote a whole pocket guide about menstrual cycles, check it out!

Medical professionals have recently been able to determine that “certain medial temporal lobe regions, which are crucial for episodic memory and spatial cognition, expand under high estradiol and low progesterone levels—that is, these brain areas remodel themselves in synchronization with the menstrual cycle.” (more here)

Now, this may be a helpful tool for understanding your body and supporting different troubling symptoms, but it is not meant to replace professional health support and advice.

Side Note: if you do not have a menstrual cycle or if it is irregular, you can follow a cycle of the moon that most resonates with you. The moon can act as your guide, to help you follow a pattern of cyclical being that is similar to a menstrual cycle. You can learn more about cycle syncing in my Womb Wisdom Pocket Guide.

Benefits of Cycle Syncing

Why bother with all this cycle syncing, you ask? Well, the benefits are honestly incredible! From reduced PMS symptoms to better sleep, hormonal balance, enhanced energy levels, and improved mental health – the perks are hard to ignore. By aligning our lifestyles with our bodies' natural ebbs and flows or hormones, nerve impulses and biological processes, we can create a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Personally, I was able to eliminate intense PMDD symptoms that were debilitating and misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. While that’s not everyone’s situation, these are common misdiagnoses.

Some considerations when beginning to learn about cyclical living and cycle singing is that it does not have to be hard. Considering how you can shift your activities or mindset during your phases can drastically support your overall wellbeing. For example, during menstruation, rest and self-care support your body's natural need for rejuvenation. The follicular phase, marked by rising energy, is an ideal time to plan your peak physical and goal-setting activities. Ovulation offers a peak in energy and confidence, and suits high-performance tasks, like reorganizing the house. The luteal phase is an excellent time for you to sit by your journal in reflection and preparation for menstruation.

Tailoring diet, exercise, and tasks to the menstrual cycle can enhance your overall well-being, productivity, and hormonal balance. Cycle syncing allows for a harmonious relationship with your body, all while promoting better physical and emotional health throughout the menstrual cycle.

Some other benefits may include:

• Reduced Symptoms of PMS

• Better Sleep

• Hormonal Balance

• Enhanced Energy Levels and,

• Improved Mental Health

If you’re feeling ready to dip your toes into the waters of cyclical living, you can start by tuning into your menstrual cycle – jot down how you feel during each phase, and notice any patterns or shifts. From there, you can begin to tailor your diet, exercise, and daily tasks to support your body's needs at each stage of the cycle.

So, as you begin harnessing the power of your menstrual cycle, I hope you can offer yourself gentleness. It is never perfect right away. By aligning our lifestyles with the natural ebb and flow of our bodies, we (eventually) cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Have fun while you explore, embrace, and celebrate the cyclical nature that is inherent in every aspect of your life.

It is through cyclical living, that we unlock the potential for profound self-discovery, empowerment, and a deeper connection with your inner landscape.