As a woman, understanding your cycle is the key to unlocking your feminine power. Learning to live with the ebb and flow of our menstrual cycle, provides a strong sense of power and purpose.
Growing up, I was only taught the basics in school and it wasn’t openly spoken about between friends. My mum prepared me in a practical way, but I never understood the true meaning of my cycle and how it influenced my whole life.
I’ll never forget the day I got my first period. I was a shy, scrawny eighth grader already petrified of going away on my first school camp. Day one of the five-day camp, it arrived. I hid in the toilets crying, trying to hide it from my friends and teachers, I felt embarrassed, completely alone and scared.
It wasn’t until I came off the pill, 15 year later that I began to understand the value and importance of living in sync with my cycle. I started tracking my cycle, along with my emotions, thoughts, behaviors, energy levels and sex drive throughout the month.
What I discovered was a consistent ebb and flow from month to month. I felt empowered, gaining a deep sense of understanding for the amazing gift we have as women. As creators of the life-death-life process.
Each month we go through a cycle of transformation. If we learn to tap into it, we gain an immense sense of purpose and direction. We begin to see our cycle as a gift… Yes, even our period, rather than an inconvenience.
Our cycle is like the seasons, it has four stages. And the average length of a menstrual cycle is twenty-eight to twenty-nine days, but can vary between women and each cycle. Your cycle begins on the first day of menstruating, but every woman’s cycle varies. To get the best result, start tracking your cycle.
Read on, and discover how you can learn about unlocking your feminine power, to work with the ebb and flow of your cycle.
Inner seasons of the menstrual cycle
Inner Seasons of the Menstrual Cycle – copyright www.storybonesonline.com 2019
Winter/Menstrual (days 1-5):
Estrogen and Progesterone levels drop, whilst the lining of the uterus sheds. This stage is a time for rest, solitude and reflection. Your energy levels drop and so does your mood. It’s time to listen to your body and pamper yourself. Enjoy relaxing baths, soothing music, nature walks or have that much need sleep in.
During this time be kind to yourself, your body asks for rest and you may feel pretty sensitive. Try not to make too many social plans during this phase and be careful not to overwhelm yourself.
Tune into your body and ask yourself, “What do I need at this time?” Your body always knows the answer.
Spring/Follicular (days 6-14):
Estrogen and Progesterone begin to rise. Just like the solitude and darkness of winter begins to fade and the flowers begin to bloom, we too feel a burst of energy and playfulness as we emerge into Spring.
During this stage your energy levels are high, you feel motivated, social and more adventurous. It is a good time to focus on new projects, socialize, create and get active.
“Say yes to life.” it’s a time for putting yourself out there and taking risks, your confidence will shine during this time.
Summer/Ovulation (days 15-17):
Estrogen Peaks and your sexual energy is in full swing. Your flirty, fun and playful side emerges and it’s a great time for socializing and connecting with others. Plan romantic getaways during this phase and relish in all the joys life has to offer.
You may find you have a lot of energy to burn, so high intensity exercise is key. Your confidence is at an all-time high. Use this opportunity to speak your truth and share your gifts with the world.
Autumn/Luteal (days 18-28):
Progesterone and Estrogen levels begin to drop (if egg isn’t fertilized). You feel easily irritable, highly sensitive and crave peace and solitude. This time is often referred to as PMS. Anxiety is on the rise and you feel frustrated, short-tempered and cravings for heavy and sweet foods are triggered.
I always mark this week in my diary. I hold off from making plans and usually prefer to spend the weekend at home. Being around too many people is too overwhelming for me during this phase.
This stage of the month may feel frustrating and painful. But there are many positives to tuning into this phase of your cycle. During the luteal phase you are highly intuitive, it’s a perfect time to meditate and go inwards. Sit with your thoughts and emotions without judgement.
Remember you harness to power of creation within you, now is the time your creative energy is flowing. Take time out to create. Allow your passions to flow through you and transform it into something beautiful and truly unique.
Understanding your cycle = a deeper understanding of who you are, your true essence
Unlocking your feminine power through understanding your cycle is what makes women creators. It’s what gives us a sense of purpose and understanding for ourselves and the natural world. Our cycles are not only in sync like the seasons, but also with the lunar phases and mother earth.
The ebb and flow of our cycle is a natural birth, death and rebirth process. It holds the answers to our true purpose as women: To create and share our gifts with the world. Learn to follow the natural rhythm of your cycle and amazing possibilities will open up to you.
Share tips and advice that you have learned through unlocking your feminine power. Post comments below.