Your menstrual cycle in 4 seasons.
I used to hate my period. Honestly, I hated the whole idea of having a menstrual cycle that was always fluctuating, always cycling. And now … well … I want to talk about periods all day! For me, the biggest shift came from seeing that the menstrual cycle isn’t just biological processes; it’s deeply rooted in the rhythms of nature, mirroring the cycles of the moon and the changing seasons. It’s exactly as it should be. This is one reason why I created my moon cycle period tracker - so you can see how that connection unfolds every month. Each phase offers unique beauty and significance, and provides opportunities for self-reflection, renewal, and celebration. Let’s look at each part of the cycle like they are a season - and see what each offers us.
Menstruation (Winter): Just like winter is a time of rest and introspection in nature, the menstrual phase is a time of rest in our bodies. Think about all of the animals going to rest in their dens - it’s our time to hibernate as well. During this phase, the uterus sheds its lining, signaling the start of a new cycle. Honoring the natural tendency to rest and reflect. It's a time to slow down, listen to our bodies, and nourish ourselves with warmth and comfort. Warm teas, baths, herbs like ginger, turmeric, and black pepper, slippers, and heating pads are all great additions to your period.
Follicular Phase (Spring): Like the arrival of spring brings new growth and vitality to the natural world, the follicular phase is a time of renewal and potential in our bodies. The flowers are blooming! The sun is out! Hormone levels rise, prompting the ovaries to prepare for ovulation. This phase is about embracing new beginnings, creativity, and growth. We can celebrate this phase by engaging in activities that inspire us, nurture our creativity, and awaken our sense of possibility. What are you dreaming up? What can you begin?
Ovulation (Summer): Ovulation, like summer in nature, is a time of fertility, abundance, and vitality. It’s party time! Ovulation occurs when an egg is released from the ovary, signaling the peak of fertility in the menstrual cycle. This phase is about embracing our feminine energy, passion, and vitality. We may feel more sexual and affectionate as well. We can celebrate this phase by connecting with friends and lovers, expressing our creativity, dancing, and spending time soaking in sunshine.
Luteal Phase (Autumn): Just as autumn is a time of harvest and preparation in nature, the luteal phase is a time of reflection, completion, and preparation in our bodies. Hormone levels shift to prepare for menstruation, and you might experience changes in mood and energy. This phase is about embracing balance, introspection, and self-care. Your body literally needs more food and sleep during this time. For many of us, our tolerance for bullshit is at an all time low, so it’s an amazing phase to look at our lives with discernment. What do you want to let go of? To release? Listen to that inner wisdom that comes out at this time, and embrace a slower pace.
By looking at each phase of our menstrual cycle in terms of nature's rhythms, we can cultivate a deeper connection with our bodies, and that just feels so good. Realizing this connection completely changed the way I live my life! We can embrace and work with our rhythm instead of fight against it. Our bodies are intelligent, and we can follow their lead.
Check out all of my art about periods to explore ways to connect with your cycle!
