Exploring the seasons of your cycle (Part 5 / 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 Luteal Phase fits into your overall cycle, please refer to our earlier post on the topic: Part 1.

Autumn (Luteal Phase)

The transition from Summer to Autumn occurs after ovulation, but how long after ovulation varies from person to person. With progesterone dominating in this phase, you might experience a drop in energy and a shift in mood. In contrast to how sociable you felt in Spring and Summer, you might feel more like retreating. On the plus side, this need to be alone can manifest itself as a sense of productivity or extreme focus. Whether it’s finishing up a project or finally getting around to sorting through your bills, doing this ahead of entering your Winter season will make you feel like a productivity pro!

Whilst you may be busy being busy, emotions can creep up on you, making you feel out of sorts. Mood swings, teary outbursts or complete meltdowns can be the result of hormone fluctuations, as can bloating and low libido at this time. It is important, though, not to be dismissive about how you are feeling just because you might be approaching ‘that time of the month’.

Some top tips for Autumn:

• Have a good declutter! This can be therapeutic as you cleanse and clear your space, but can also set you up perfectly to relax, reducing anxiety and stress in the run-up to your period.

• It is important to stay hydrated, to beat the bloat.

• Exercise such as light yoga, walking and swimming can help ease symptoms like cramps and breast soreness.
  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.