I’ve gotten a similar sensation at the end of the past two cycles and I was trying to put my finger on it, to give it a name.

And the best way to describe it is a mild melancholy, “a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause.”

I’ve really come to terms with my cycle, my period and have grown to appreciate each of the phases for what they have to offer.

Instead of getting frustrated or upset about something that happens I’m more curious than anything.

And I’m pretty sure I feel this way the last day or two of my cycle because all of the plummeting hormone levels as my body prepares for the start of a new cycle.

I just feel myself slowing down, turning inwards and either wanting to be out in nature or curled up at home.

There’s no cause for feeling “low”, but it’s not necessarily a bad feeling. I just feel reflective and a bit day dreamy.

I find it’s best to journal, you never know what’s going to bubble to the surface. Or to get out into nature, whether that’s for a walk, run, lounge in the hammock. Being outside is what I find helps best to soothe the sad aspect of it, and nourish the pensive side of this sensation.

Because regardless of what it is that I’m feeling I figure it’s got to be happening for a reason. The worst thing you can do is ignore a feeling or an emotion. Even if it’s negative or unpleasant, something is making you feel that way. And I find that working through it, digging into whatever it is always is what’s best.

No matter who you are or what you do in life you’re going to come up against subconscious resistance, “Stay where you know, stay where it’s comfortable and easy.” But the best stuff is just beyond your comfort zone. Isn’t that what they always say.

I’m guilty of trying to numb myself to things that are uncomfortable: conversations, situations, you name it. But I’ve been working to force myself to recognize these things, to acknowledge them and then ask myself where it's coming from.

Because when I dig into it I discover new things about myself. Or I’m able to push myself outside my comfort zone where really cool things happen.

So while some might see this sensation of melancholy as a negative aspect of getting your period, I see it as a positive. I see it as just another way my cycle connects me to things and challenges me to keep reaching for more.

Have you noticed any interesting nuances of your own cycle that have made you stop and think?