In my coaching program we dive into this subject in great detail, understanding the nuances of feminine productivity and how it helps us create the life and business we love.

A woman’s body, like the seasons of the year, goes through four main phases in each cycle of 29 and ½ days that correspond with the cycles of the moon. Each phase brings with it a unique set of hormonal, physical, emotional and psychological gifts. When we understand these cycles and eat, work, love and play according to our natural flow, we get better at working with our feminine power and not against it.

 

So let’s explore how we can move from a vicious cycle to a delicious one!

Follicular Phase: Spring Forward with Strength

We enter this cycle after menstruation.

In the body:
Our energy levels are very high as we experience an abundance of stamina and physical strength during this dynamic phase. It’s a great time to undertake physically strenuous and challenging activities. Because we feel light and vibrant during this phase, we can support this vibrant and light experience in our body by feeding her foods that are vibrant and light. Think bowls of greens and vegetables, eaten raw or lightly sautéed.

In the heart:
We experience an enhanced sense of confidence, social skills and an upbeat mood during this phase. We also have a deeper desire to engage and mingle in social settings. It’s a great time to attend social gatherings, events and parties and try out new outings, date ideas and adventures with loved ones.

In the mind:
Our sense of power, creative energy and ability to take risks are at high levels during this phase. It’s a great idea to ride this cycle of high energy, clarity and focus to embark on new projects and ventures. At work we can use the energy of this cycle to plan, strategize, research, learn new concepts and communicate them clearly and powerfully with our colleagues, team members and supervisors.

Ovulatory Phase: Summer of Love and Self-Expression

In the body:
We enjoy a unique magnetism during the ovulatory phase because biologically we are designed to attract mates in this phase. Our sex drive peaks and we continue to experience high energy with a desire to participate in group exercises and activities with others.

In the heart:
Our magnetism extends to our love life and social engagements as we are geared for first dates and other romantic activities. The high confidence and enhanced communication skills from the follicular phase continue. This is a great time to have intimate conversations with loved ones, extend our empathy, compassion and support to those who need it.

In the mind:
This phase is high on creative, productive, inspiring energies. We find ourselves naturally cementing old relationships, building new ones and connecting the right people to each other. Because the body is in creative mode, it’s a good time to create content, execute ideas (birthed during menstruation), embark on team projects and build a greater sense of community.

Luteal Phase: Fall into Inspiration and Self-love

The luteal phase is commonly referred to as pre-menstrual syndrome or PMS phase.

In the body:
During this phase our energy naturally dips and we tend to physically feel withdrawn. Gentler, less strenuous forms of exercise such as Yoga, walks, Pilates serve us well during this time. This is also the time our body begins to crave warmer, comforting foods. Choose healthy options, especially of sugar and fats, and ensure high intake of fiber to support the body’s functions.

In the heart:
As progesterone levels increase in our body we experience a slower, more relaxed temperament. This is a good time to make self-care a priority, be comfortable, rest and curl up with a book, take long baths and not force yourself to be physically or socially active if your body and mind don’t support it. Our desire to nest increases during the luteal phase and we might find yourself re-arranging furniture or beautifying our home.

In the mind:
We have an enhanced awareness and attention to detail during this phase. We also tend to get anxious and fidgety during this phase, especially in the second half. There is a feeling of ‘getting things over with’ which is caused by the build-up of the uterine lining. It’s a great idea to channelize this energy to complete activities that require an attention to detail and problem-solving skills: spread sheets, bill payments, cleaning out and organizing filing cabinets, sales figures etc.

Menstrual Phase: Winter of Release, Renewal and Reflection

In the body:
This is a time of low physical energy as our body begins the process of shedding the uterine lining. Like the latter half of the luteal phase this is a good time to rest and indulge in gentler, softer forms of exercise like stretching and walking. In terms of food, it’s best to feed the body nutrient-dense, low-glycemic and easy to digest foods and drinks like khichadi, stews, soups and herbal teas.
In the heart:
During menstruation, there is equal communication between our left and right brains, providing us easy access to our intuition. It is also a time of deep release (physically as well as energetically), introspection, review and release. Overall this is a great time to rest, review, process, set intentions, visualize the life you want to create. Writing in a journal is a great way to get clarity during this time. This phase often brings a desire to stay indoors and get some solo-time.

In the mind:
What thoughts, items and decisions are not serving you well? Perhaps it’s time to let go of them. Both at work and home, the menstrual phase offers great opportunities to introspect, reflect and release anything that isn’t serving us well anymore. Reviewing projects and employee performance, re-evaluating proposals and ventures happen more naturally during this phase than other phases.

If you enjoyed this post and would like to draw more ancient spiritual and feminine practices into your work, please consider setting up a 30-minute complimentary session with me. We’ll chat about your specific life and business goals and discuss if we’re a good fit for a 1:1 coaching program.

You can set up your session here

You can find out more about my 1:1 coaching program here.

(Please note the prices for this program are going up soon and this is the perfect time to reserve your spot to work with me if you’re feeling guided.)

I look forward to serving you.

In the comments below tell us where are you in your cycle? Some indicators are: your energy levels, food cravings, tendency to do certain types of tasks, desire to be alone or around others. How can you support yourself during this time?