First a quick refresher of the four phases of our menstrual cycle:

1. menstrual phase

2. follicular phase

3. ovulatory phase

4. luteal phase

Next, let's move into why I'm a fan of each phase.

I love the menstrual phase because:

+ it’s a chance to slow down

+ rest, renew, reflect

+ it has taught me to listen to my body

+ i’ve learned to let myself sleep more and I'm loving the benefits

I love the follicular phase because:

+ starting around the end of my menstrual phase into my follicular phase I get this burst of energy (if I slow down during my period)

+ it’s kind of like coming out of hibernation. I’m ready to go each day

+ it also reminds me of my love for Mondays as a fresh start

I love the ovulatory phase because:

+ I’m most social and outgoing in this phase

+ I’m best at interacting during this phase

+ I love the process of the fluid getting more fertile, waiting for that spike in temperature

I love the luteal phase because:

+ there’s not a bunch of spotting like there was at the beginning of this year

+ knowing how many days it’s going to be and when to expect my period

+ the decline in energy reminding me to start slowing down

+ It's when I’m most in tune with my emotions

Knowing about the different phases has opened up this whole new world:

+ I’ve learned to love my cycle

- learning about what’s going on inside your body, as well as your mind just makes it all click and make sense

+ How you feel makes sense

- if you are feeling tired, or emotional you can point to why

+ I can use this knowledge to my advantage

- can schedule around this, don’t load a bunch on your plate during your menstrual phase. schedule big meetings around ovulation.

A book I love on this topic that taught me so much is “The Optimized Woman”. So, if you liked today’s post I recommend going and picking this book up.