Riding the Waves: Navigating Your Menstrual Cycle into the New Year.
As we welcome the new year, it's a perfect time to sync up with the natural rhythms of our bodies, specifically, our menstrual cycles. Much like the seasons, our cycles are diverse, ranging from 21 to 40 days. Understanding this beautiful diversity allows us to tailor self-care and sexual health practices uniquely. Let's embark on a journey through the four phases of our menstrual cycle, aligning with the inner winter, spring, summer, and autumn, each with its distinct characteristics.
Tracking Your Cycle
Your menstrual cycle isn't a one-size-fits-all scenario. Tracking it empowers you with insights into your unique rhythm. Whether through modern apps or the charm of a handwritten calendar, noting the physical and emotional patterns during each phase aids in life planning and overall well-being.
Embrace the Winter: Allow yourself guilt-free rest and self-care during this phase.
Inner Winter (Days 1-7): Embracing Menstruation
Hormones Drop: Bid farewell to high estrogen and progesterone levels.
Endometrium Sheds: Unless pregnancy occurs, the uterine lining says its goodbyes.
Menstrual Flow: Duvet days are embraced. Periods can last 3-10 days, and Mooncups® might become your best companion.
Step into Spring: Sociability returns, creativity blooms, and an increased libido adds a spark to your days.
Inner Spring (Days 8-14): Welcoming Renewal
Hormones Rise: FSH starts to climb, preparing the stage for ovulation.
Endometrium Rebuilds: The uterus lining thickens, readying itself for potential pregnancy.
Physical & Emotional Signs: Vaginal discharge may increase; mood lifts, heralding new beginnings.
Bask in the Summer: Confidence soars, energy peaks, and positivity reigns. Embrace your superpower!
Inner Summer (Days 15-21): Ovulatory Radiance
Hormones Peak: Oestrogen peaks, triggering LH and FSH for ovulation.
Endometrium Readies: The uterine lining thickens, ready for a fertilized egg.
Fertility Window: Sperm can survive, making this an essential time for birth control considerations.
Navigate the Autumn: Embrace self-compassion during PMS. Understand that this phase is temporary.
Inner Autumn (Luteal Phase): Preparing for Transition
Hormones Shift: Corpus luteum forms, producing progesterone to maintain the uterine lining.
Physical Signs: Vaginal discharge turns sticky; breasts may feel tender.
PMS Reality: Premenstrual Syndrome arrives as hormones take a dip, affecting mood and well-being.
The menstrual cycle is a journey, not a destination. Embracing the ebb and flow of each phase allows us to connect with our bodies more intimately. As you step into the new year, let this understanding guide your self-care and sexual health practices. Recognize the beauty in your uniqueness, cherish the diversity of your cycle, and let this awareness be the compass for a year filled with self-love, health, and empowerment.
