Cyclical living

Cycle syncing and aligned living are about harmonizing your lifestyle with the natural rhythms of your body, particularly the hormonal fluctuations that occur throughout the menstrual cycle. By tuning into these changes, you can optimise your energy, work, relationships, and health.

Here is an overview of this topic. For more in-depth explorations and understanding of the anatomy, physiology, physical, mental, emotional and energetic layers of the menstrual cycle, head here.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Cycle syncing works by aligning your activities with the four key phases of the menstrual cycle, which are:

• Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5): This is when menstruation occurs. Energy is typically lower, and rest and introspection are ideal. Focus on self-care and light activities.

• Follicular Phase (Days 6–14): After menstruation, energy starts to rise. It’s a great time for creativity, new projects, and brainstorming. Your mood is typically more upbeat, and physical energy is higher.

• Ovulation (Days 14–16): The body is at its peak energy and social interaction is encouraged. You may feel more confident and outgoing, making this phase a good time for meetings, networking, and high-energy activities.

• Luteal Phase (Days 17–28): This phase brings some mood swings and potential fatigue as your body prepares for the next cycle. It's ideal for completing tasks, wrapping up projects, and focusing on more detailed work. However, you may also need more rest and comfort, so prioritize self-care.

Cycle Syncing Aligned Living:

This idea encourages you to live according to your cycle, adjusting nutrition, exercise, productivity, and even social activities to match the phase of your cycle.

Nutrition:

• Each phase requires different nutrients. For example, during the luteal phase, your body may crave more carbs and magnesium-rich foods to ease PMS symptoms. During ovulation, lighter meals with high-protein options can support the body's energy levels.

Exercise:

• In the follicular and ovulation phases, you can try more intense practices like strength training and hatha yoga, as your body is better equipped for it. During the menstrual and luteal phases, gentler exercises like restorative yoga, pilates, or walking are better suited.

Work & Productivity:

• Some women find that they are more productive and able to take on leadership tasks during the follicular and ovulation phases. The luteal phase may be better for focused, detailed work that requires less social interaction, while the menstrual phase is best for introspection and planning.

Self-Care:

• Rest and relaxation are essential during the menstrual phase. The luteal phase might call for comforting activities like baths, reading, or quiet evenings to ease the transition before the next cycle.

Benefits of Cycle Syncing:

• Better energy management: Knowing when your body is likely to feel energised or drained can help you plan better, leading to increased productivity and less burnout.

• Improved mood: By honouring your body’s rhythms, you can potentially reduce irritability, symptoms associated with PMS or hormonal imbalances.

• Personalised approach to exercise and nutrition: By adjusting what you eat and how you move, you may notice better results in both physical health and mental well-being.

Incorporating cycle syncing into your life can take time to perfect, but it can lead to a more harmonious and balanced approach to living by respecting your body’s natural processes.