Exploring the seasons of your cycle (Part 3 / 5)
In this 5-part series, we break down the different phases of the menstrual cycle and explore the role played by your hormones.
You may already be familiar with how the circadian rhythm affects your energy levels during the day. Are you also aware of how your hormones affect key bodily functions such as your metabolism, reproduction, mood and sleep cycles? For insight into where the Follicular Phase fits into your overall cycle, please refer to our earlier post on the topic: Part 1.
Spring (Follicular Phase)
You will start to enter Spring around the time your period comes to an end. For most, this is around day 6 or 7, but this may differ if you have a shorter or longer period. Spring is pre-ovulation, during which the body starts to produce more oestrogen, to prepare for a potential pregnancy. Your testosterone levels also begin to increase and you may notice that you feel more positive, energised and motivated, and like taking initiative. Your oestrogen levels peak in the later stages of Spring, usually Day 10 onwards. This is when you feel at your sexiest and most fertile.
Spring is a time of ‘build-up’ and you may notice that you are more in tune with the practical parts of your life and also the bigger plans you may have for the future.
It’s important to note that the move from Winter (menstruation) to Spring (pre-ovulation) can leave you vulnerable and prone to burn out. If you start to find yourself becoming overwhelmed or losing focus, it could be a sign to pull back a bit.
Some top tips for Spring:
Now is a great time to explore any ideas you’ve been having. You’ll be naturally curious at this point in the cycle and you’ll be in your element writing your journal or creating some to-do lists.
Anaerobic exercise, such as running, spinning, weights, HIIT and swimming, is a good fit for this season.
In the remaining parts of this series, we delve deeper into the different seasons and what you can expect from each of them.
You can find out more about the menstrual cycle, including tips and tools for tracking and getting familiar with your natural rhythm in our period journal Girlhood: The Story for girls aged 8 - 14 and our health and wellbeing journal for adults Sisterhood: The Journal.
